Former agribusiness banker Susan Wakeford has been appointed the Red Meat Advisory Council’s new chief executive officer, following Alastair James’ recent resignation.

Ms Wakeford’s follows an extensive industry executive search and interview process by the RMAC board. She starts in her new role on 19 August.

Susan Wakeford

RMAC chair John McKillop welcomed Ms Wakeford’s appointment and thanked outgoing CEO Mr James.

“Ms Wakeford is an exceptional appointment for RMAC, she brings a wealth of experience, leadership, strategic engagement and company governance” Mr McKillop said.

Prior to joining RMAC, Susan ran her own rural financial and business consultancy, Bale & Twine, and spent almost 20 years in agri-banking, ultimately head of agribusiness for Westpac.

“Ms Wakeford’s experience will strengthen RMAC’s role as Australia’s only policy leadership and advisory forum, representing the entire red meat supply chain from paddock to plate,” Mr McKillop said.

Mr James informed the Board of his move to Herefords Australia as chief executive.

“In his time with RMAC, Alastair fostered a united industry focussed on collaboratively strengthening the red meat and livestock industry’s voice while relentlessly progressing key industry initiatives,” Mr KcKillop said.

“The RMAC Board wishes Mr James well in his new endeavours and looks forward to working with Ms Wakeford in continuing to advance the interests of Australia’s red meat and livestock industry.”

Source: RMAC