Irrigation Australia (IAL) has appointed its new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation and enhance its value and effectiveness, on behalf of its members.
After an extensive recruitment process, Bryan Ward was appointed CEO and will commence in the role on March 14 2016.
For the past nine years Mr Ward has been the General Manager of Think Water, a franchised network of irrigation and pumping businesses across Australia and New Zealand.
Prior Think Water, Mr Ward has had a long career in the meat and dairy industries in roles at a general manager and CEO level.
Mr Ward also has experience with industry associations with the Australian Dairy Corporation, the Tasmanian Dairy Industry Authority and the New Zealand Meat Industry Association.
Mr Ward will bring a comprehensive range of skills and experience to Irrigation Australia, including considerable financial acumen, an extensive knowledge of agribusiness and marketing in Australia and New Zealand.
Mr Ward also has a significant level of experience working with member-based organisations and with State and Federal Government agencies.
Mr Ward said, “I am looking forward to taking up the position of CEO at Irrigation Australia and working with the board and IAL management team to improve the effectiveness of the organisation.
“A strong and relevant industry association will be critical to assist IAL members reach their full potential in the future and whilst my initial focus will be on the upcoming conference and trade show in Melbourne in May this year I’ll also be working closely with the board, management and members to reinvigorate Regional Committees, Special Interest Groups and other initiatives to make the IAL a more attractive membership proposition.”
Irrigation Australia has recognised the work of IAL Director Geoff Harvey in his role as interim CEO during this period.
Mr Harvey will continue as interim CEO until Mr Ward’s commencement to ensure a seamless transition and operation of IAL.
