Renowned agricultural leader Pete Arkle will be stepping into an interim Chief Executive role with Grain Producers Australia.
Mr Arkle will take on the position in the short term, while existing Chief Executive Colin Bettles remains on leave for health reasons.
GPA Chair Barry Large said Mr Arkle was well placed to take on the CE role and would maintain the strong position of the organisation and its ability to advocate for grain producers.
“Pete is a very knowledgeable and experienced leader and brings with him useful insight into the broader agricultural industry, both in Australia and overseas,” Mr Large said.
“He has our full support to guide GPA processes and our ongoing commitment to the representation of grain growers on issues affecting our industry.”
Mr Large said the GPA Board was committed to supporting Mr Bettles throughout his recovery from injuries recently sustained while overseas and in his return to GPA.
“The decision to engage Mr Arkle in the interim will ensure continuity in GPA activities as he has already been partnering with GPA in the sustainability, chemical and policy space in recent months,” Mr Large said.
Mr Arkle has a proven track record in leadership and agriculture, having previously held the position of Chief Executive Officer with NSW Farmers from 2018 to late 2023 and before that, working in numerous roles with Syngenta, both in Australia and globally.
Mr Arkle said he was grateful he could aid GPA and Mr Bettles in what was difficult and unexpected circumstances.
“Australia agriculture’s greatest asset is its people, and Col is up there with the best – in tough times you’ve got to lean in, and I’m pleased to be able to do this for Colin and GPA,” he said.
“GPA plays a really important role in its national representation of grain producers and I take on this role with a lot of respect for maintaining this strong foundation.”
ENDS
Further Information:
GPA Chair Barry Large: 0427 549 023
GPA Executive Officer Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193
Comments