New chief for live export council

Simon Westaway has been appointed chief executive of the Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council.

He will join ALEC from Melbourne-based corporate advisory firm Hintons and Associates, having also worked at BHB Billiton, Orica, Tourism Australia, Jetstar Airways and Medibank Private. He fills the vacancy created by the departure of Alison Penfold, whose 41/2-year tenure finished last week.

ALC chairman Simon Crean said Mr Westaway’s appointment came at a crucial time.

“While we are very proud of Australia’s role in a sophisticated and professional global livestock supply chain, we acknowledge the system is not perfect,” Mr Crean said.

“That’s why we are determined to be transparent in addressing the concerns of all stakeholders, finding common ground in solutions which support an ethical and economically viable live trade.”

With Mr Westaway due to commence with ALEC in the coming weeks, the ALEC board has appointed Peter Barnard as interim chief executive.

Dr Barnard, who took up the role on Monday, is well known as a former general manager of Meat and Livestock Australia and has had a close association with the live trade for many years.