The Red Meat Advisory Council will shortly begin the process of appointing a new independent chair, as current chairman John McKillop nears the end of his six-year term.

At the same time, a new chief executive officer will be appointed, as current CEO Susan Wakeford has decided to move on.

The Red Meat Advisory Council is Australia’s national policy leadership and advisory forum made up of cattle and sheepmeat producers, lotfeeders, processors, manufacturers, retailers, and livestock exporters, representing the entire red meat supply chain from paddock to plate.

Mr McKillop took up the role as independent chairman in October 2020, and under the body’s regulations, can only serve for a maximum of six years. He followed Don Mackay and Ross Keane in the role.

Following chief executive officer Susan Wakeford’s decision to move on to new opportunities within the agricultural industry, RMAC has appointed former Cattle Australia CEO Chris Parker to act as interim CEO until a permanent appointment is made.

Ms Wakeford, who has served as CEO for the past two years, will formally transition out of the role on 10 July. To ensure a smooth handover, the RMAC Board has appointed Dr Parker to the interim position, effective 1 July.

Chairman John McKillop thanked Ms Wakeford for her leadership and the positive impact she has had during her tenure.

“Susan has made a significant contribution to the red meat industry, and we are grateful for the commitment and expertise she has brought to the role. Her work in modernising the Australian Red Meat Memorandum of Understanding and strengthening governance across the organisation has set a strong foundation for RMAC’s future,” he said.

“We wish her well and look forward to seeing what she achieves next in Australian agriculture.”

Reflecting on her time at RMAC, Ms Wakeford said it had been incredibly rewarding to work alongside the Peak Industry Bodies and the people of the red meat and livestock industry.

“The mid-term review of Red Meat 2030 stands out as a particular highlight — a vital piece of work that will guide the sector’s direction for years to come,” she said.

“This industry is a big part of my life, and the people within it are what make it so special. Being able to support their success both domestically and on the world stage in this role has been a real privilege, and I leave genuinely excited about the future of our sector,” Ms Wakeford said.

Dr Parker brings a wealth of experience to the interim role, with a strong background spanning agricultural policy, international trade and biosecurity.

He said he was keen to build on the strong foundation in place and focus on the key issues facing the sector.

“RMAC plays a critical role in coordinating the industry’s response to the challenges and opportunities ahead. I’m looking forward to working with the Board and Peak Industry Bodies on the priorities that matter most right now — including market access, trade, cost recovery and biosecurity.”

“We have a strong platform to build from, and we look forward to appointing a permanent CEO who will continue to drive RMAC’s important work on behalf of the red meat and livestock industry,” Mr McKillop said.

A recruitment process for both positions will commence soon.