Ben Kochanski

• Executive General Manager, Planning and Infrastructure, Newcastle Airport
• 20+ years delivering major infrastructure across Australia
• FFocused on future-ready planning and sustainable project delivery
  

Ben Kochanski is Executive General Manager of Planning and Infrastructure at Newcastle Airport. He leads the airport’s capital works portfolio, including the new international and expanded domestic terminal that will connect the Hunter region to the world. His role also covers runway, taxiway, transport, and utilities projects, as well as the Astra Aerolab development, Australia’s next-generation aerospace hub.

With more than two decades in construction and project management, Ben has worked across Australia in senior roles with John Holland, Thiess, Lendlease, and Downer. His experience spans aviation, defence, mining, and civil infrastructure, bringing both technical depth and strategic vision to every project.

Ben is passionate about future-focused construction management and creating infrastructure that drives regional growth. Known for his strong people leadership and commitment to quality, he continues to position Newcastle Airport as an industry benchmark for sustainable and efficient project delivery.