Hamilton Island Enterprises has appointed Chris Mills as Chief Executive Officer, and Renae Trimble as Chief Operating Officer, strengthening its executive leadership team as the business enters its next phase of growth.
The appointments come as Hamilton Island continues to invest in its people and infrastructure to build on its position as one of Australia’s premier island destinations, following its acquisition by global investment firm Blackstone.
Chris Mills appointed Chief Executive Officer
Chris Mills brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across aviation, tourism, and events. He joins Hamilton Island from Sunshine Coast Airport, where he has been Chief Executive Officer for the past three years, delivering strong passenger growth and leading major planning and development initiatives. Prior to that, Chris spent eight years as Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Airports Limited, overseeing the operations, capital investment and strategic development of multiple airports and playing a key role in strengthening tourism connectivity and regional economic growth.
Chris has also made a significant contribution to Queensland’s broader tourism and events sector over many years as an executive at businesses such as Dreamworld theme park, d’Albora Marinas and South Bank Corporation. He currently serves on the boards of Events Management Queensland and Queensland Tourism Industry Council and has previously served on the boards of Tourism and Events Queensland, the Tourism and Transport Forum and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Chris will officially begin as Chief Executive Officer later this year.
“Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, and I’m honoured to have the opportunity to lead it,” said Chris Mills. “I’m excited to build on the incredible foundation that’s been established here, and to work alongside a talented team to deliver exceptional experiences for our guests while unlocking new opportunities for growth.”
Renae Trimble appointed Chief Operating Officer
Renae Trimble joins Hamilton Island from the National Rugby League (NRL), where she most recently served as Chief Commercial Officer, leading commercial revenue and fan engagement.
She brings more than 25 years of experience spanning hospitality, commercial strategy, loyalty and digital, including a 17-year career with Accor, where she was appointed CEO of Accor Plus Asia Pacific. She previously led Accor Pacific’s Commercial Division, as Chief Commercial officer leading strategy, revenue and distribution, digital, loyalty and marketing.
Renae commenced her role as Chief Operating Officer in June and is responsible for Hamilton Island’s diverse operations, spanning hotels, food and beverage, marina, retail and activities.
“Hamilton Island holds a truly special place in the hearts of Australians, and I couldn’t be more excited to join at such a pivotal moment,” said Renae Trimble. “I’ll be working closely with our teams to drive future commercial growth through deepening our customer focus.”
A new leadership team for Hamilton Island’s future
Hamilton Island Chairman John Borghetti welcomed both appointments, highlighting the calibre of leadership they bring to Australia’s tropical island.
“Chris is an accomplished leader with extensive experience across aviation, tourism and major infrastructure, and a strong understanding of the role connectivity plays in growing successful destinations. He is exceptionally well placed to lead Hamilton Island through its next phase of growth and development,” said John Borghetti, Chairman of the Hamilton Island Board.
“Renae brings deep hospitality expertise together with outstanding commercial, digital and operational experience. Her appointment further strengthens our leadership team as we continue to elevate the guest experience and build the long-term performance. of the business. On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Chris and Renae to Hamilton Island and look forward to working with them both.”
Both Chris and Renae will join the Hamilton Island team on island for the upcoming Hamilton Island Race Week, taking place from 15-22 August 2026.
