New Zealand based a2 Milk Company Chief Executive Jayne Hrdlicka stepped down from her role which she assumed in July 2018. The resignation comes at a time when the New Zealand dairy industry is going through a tough phase as industry leaders such as Fonterra are struggling to implement its global strategy. 

Hrdlicka had also sold about 61 percent of the rights issued to her in June and August, as a mechanism to meet her tax obligations. Prior to a2 Milk Company, Hrdlicka had fulfilled the role of CEO of Qantas Airways Unit, Jetstar Group, for about five years. 

In light of the resignation, the Auckland-based dairy firm has appointed Geoffrey Babige as the interim CEo. He has the experience of executing the same role prior to Hrdlicka. The dairy giant has begun the search for a full-time CEO right away. 

Non-executive director Jesse Wu would also be taking up a direct oversight role for the China business arm in the interim.