A local business leader has accepted a role with a group that is focused on strengthening the Sunshine Coast’s economy.
Jennifer Swaine is the new interim CEO of Regional Development Australia Sunshine Coast, following the departure of long-serving CEO Paul Fisher.
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A passionate advocate and supporter of local business, she said she was looking forward to continuing the work of RDASC.
“I am delighted to accept this interim role and will continue to champion the great work being done by RDASC in supporting local business initiatives over the coming months,” she said.
Ms Swaine has been the group’s media and communications manager for the past five years. She is also the chair of the Sunshine Coast Business Awards, vice-president of the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance and a non-executive director of Visit Sunshine Coast.
RDASC chair Carol Cashman said the group decided to appoint an interim CEO while the RDA program was undergoing a review to determine whether any adjustments to regions needed to be made.
“Jennifer has a solid understanding of the work we do and will keep things progressing while we await the outcome of the review,” she said.
“Once that announcement has been made, we will either resume our search for a full-time CEO or we will look to amalgamate with another region.
“The board has every confidence that Jennifer will continue the great work done by our outgoing CEO, Paul Fisher, and will keep the business community informed about the work we are doing and will continue to enhance the reputation of the RDASC, by working with our board and region’s leaders to grow our local economy and share information about upcoming initiatives and grant opportunities.
“RDASC plays an integral role in working with the business community and all levels of government to help ensure we get the balance right in terms of what areas we invest in, and we will continue to have a voice on matters that impact what is one of the country’s fastest growing regions.
Meanwhile, Mr Fisher has been appointed chief commercial officer at Australian technology company Raider Targetry.
He has more than 30 years of international senior management experience.
“I am delighted to be joining the team at Raider at a time of significant demand and growth both domestically and internationally,” he said.
“I am joining a team of incredibly talented and dedicated Australian engineers who design, build and operate systems that enhance the skills and capabilities of our soldiers in the most realistic training environments.”
