GRAINS Australia has a new CEO – Richard Simonaitis was this week appointed to the role.
Mr Simonaitis has worked in senior management roles in the grain industry and in export-focused commodity industries, most recently leading the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC).
Grains Australia chair Terry Enright said Mr Simonaitis’ experience in market insight and analysis, innovation and education align with the core functions of Grains Australia.
“Grains Australia’s vision is to be the leader in delivering industry good services that add value to the Australian grains industry, and we are confident Richard will make significant progress in helping achieve this goal,” Mr Enright said.
“The board look forward to working closely with Richard to ensure Grains Australia’s Strategic Plan is implemented effectively, while ensuring the best outcomes for the industry.”
Mr Simonaitis will officially take on the role of CEO from 1 November 2022. He said he is looking forward to the opportunity to improve connectivity across the value chain and industry influence amongst key domestic and global stakeholders.
“I was attracted to this role because of the opportunity to take a collaborative approach to working closely with organisations across the Australian grains industry, in order to deliver services that benefit the whole of the industry,” Mr Simonaitis said.
Western Australia agriculture and food minister Alannah MacTiernan welcomed Mr Simonaitis’ Grains Australia appointment.
A statement from Ms MacTiernan said during Mr Simonaitis’ six-year tenure with AEGIC, Mr Simonaitis has overseen the evolution of the organisation, which has included market diversification and the development of new products and value adding opportunities.
Earlier this year, AEGIC secured a $24 million investment over four years from its owners for 2022-23 to 2025-26, to enable the organisation to maintain and build new trade opportunities and industry value.
Ms MacTiernan said Mr Simonaitis created an exceptional team and culture at AEGIC, which has delivered a strong national brand and reputation.
“His intimate knowledge of the WA grains industry – the nation’s biggest – and our overseas markets will make him a great ambassador for our state,” she said.
“I wish him well in his new role and look forward to the appointment of a new CEO for AEGIC.”
