Australian Printer editor Wayne Robinson reports Peak industry association the PIAA has appointed industry outsider Andrew Macaulay to replace the departed Jason Allen as its CEO. Macaulay has been working as managing director of a business consultancy, Dorade, working in government relations in APAC, corporate restructure, turn-around and strategic planning. Customers primarily are Australian based, navigating highly regulated market entry paths. He has also spent time in China as a managing director. His appointment to the top job follows an extensive recruitment process which saw more than 100 applicants from within Australia and overseas. PIAA acting president Kieran May says the Board was unanimous in its choice. He takes over following the ill-fated tenure of former CEO Jason Allen who resigned six months into his contract in what was the most tumultuous period in the PIAA’s 170 year history.
New CEO: Andrew Macaulay
May says the Board was mindful of the expectations of all members and set about to appoint a candidate with a strong record, particularly in stakeholder consultation and communication. Also at front of mind was the need to appoint a CEO who will lead the Association through a period of stabilisation, while simultaneously working to identify areas where members will see tangible benefits. During Allen’s time the PIAA was hit with waves of member discontent, four board member resignaitons, including two presidents, and the rise of a members action group. However since May was appointed president peace has broken out, with the appointment of four new board members receiving universal acclaim. The Board conducted in-depth interviews with short-listed applicants from both the print industry and other industry backgrounds. Applicants were then short-listed further and followed up with secondary discussions with the top candidates. According to the PIAA Macaulay offered key strengths which set him apart. He has shown a demonstrated ability to engage with members at all levels, an ability to grasp key issues to influence decision makers on policy and strategic matters, and an outstanding record in managing recovery and growth. Macaulay has worked with an associaiton before, although it was 20 years ago, and says the PIAA achieved outstanding results in what was a key role with NSW Farmers Association in a period when their industry experienced significant turmoil. His leadership was instrumental in rebuilding confidence within a fractured and demoralised industry sector, which doesn’t sound unfamiliar to some in print. More recently he has been instrumental in forging successful multi-level partnerships throughout Australia and South East Asia, driven says the PIAA by his leadership and strong relationships at Government and stakeholder levels. Macaulay has expressed priority to meet with industry leaders and members. Macaulay describes himself as ‘Highly experienced senior executive with track record of creating substantial growth in shareholder value across diverse industries. Asian market entry expert. Passionate leader and proven business builder with 20 years senior management experience, 15 in executive management, a strong strategic, operational and analytical capabilities; and a passion for building great organisations, cultures and capability; and a change agent.
Comment below to have your say on this story.
If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.
Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter