My speculation about him being after the CEO job. The buzz is that he has offered his services as being available. Hence he must sense the QF days are numbered.
Of course the recent remarks in the media about what an amazing management team QF has shows his self belief.
Anyone remember when they were saying that QF would be a company that sells management expertise a few years ago? Guess he still believes in that as well.
If another airline does give him a position, it won't be an influential one.
His last duty to QF is to deliver the killer blow, and then walk away. An incoming CEO cannot have the respect of any staff if they are the ones to deliver the mass execution. And he won't be too popular in Australia after his success in destroying a national icon.