Command change for Royal New Zealand Air Force following appointment

Air Commodore Webb will be promoted to the rank of Air Vice-Marshal and will lead the RNZAF from 2 October until the formal appointment of a Chief of Air Force in 2024.

Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Kevin Short acknowledged Air Commodore Webb’s distinguished career that has spanned more than 33 years of service.

“Air Commodore Webb has a wealth of operational, command and staff experience, gained over his career. He is an exceptional leader and I look forward to working with him.”

Since joining the RNZAF as a pilot in 1990, Air Commodore Webb has accumulated more than 6000 hours of flying, conducting multiple operational missions and deployments. He has commanded RNZAF units at every level and held strategic portfolios including Defence Capability and Strategic Commitments and Engagements.

Beyond Defence, Air Commodore Webb was Head of Managed Isolation and Quarantine, seconded into the All of Government response. He was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in the 2022 New Year Honours list for services to the NZDF in recognition of this role.

Today the Public Service Commissioner announced the appointment of current Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Clark to the position of Director-General of the GCSB and Chief Executive.

Air Vice-Marshal Clark’s appointment will see him lead the GCSB, which contributes to national security by providing cyber security and the foreign intelligence required to protect and advance New Zealand’s security, defence, economic and other interests. The Director-General is also the Government Chief Information Security Officer.

“It is a well-deserved move for Air Vice-Marshal Clark who has served the Defence Force with distinction for more than 36 years, culminating in the role of Chief of Air Force since 2018,” Air Marshal Short said.

“He has been a talented and thoughtful leader. Air Vice-Marshal Clark has led the RNZAF skilfully during difficult times, and leaves the RNZAF well placed for the future.”

Details regarding the change-of-command ceremony will be released in due course.

Photo captions: Air Vice-Marshal Andrew Clark and Air Commodore Darryn Webb