Australia’s macadamia industry is delighted to welcome Clare Hamilton-Bate to the role of Chief Executive Officer following the departure of Jolyon Burnett last month after 14 years at the helm.
Clare comes to the position with a background in horticultural science, and extensive experience in executive roles in all sectors of horticulture, from farm to consumer, as well as industry and association management in the UK, Australia and internationally.
Australian Macadamia Society Chair Craig Mills describes Clare as a passionate, accomplished, and engaging leader who will bring significant insight and a wealth of experience to the role.
“Clare has over 30 years’ experience across all sectors of the fresh produce and agri-food supply chain, and a proven track record in leading member-driven organisations. She is well equipped to lead our industry into a sustainable and profitable future,” he said.
“As CEO of Freshcare from 2002 to 2019, Clare transformed it to a profitable, 5000+member, internationally recognised, compliance organisation. With this experience, Clare is acknowledged as an authority on delivering practical, industry focussed solutions to meet both market and legislative needs.”
Over the last three years, Clare has worked with Manbulloo Limited, Australia’s leading producer of Kensington Pride mangoes, supporting the business in both a strategic and operational capacity, across all aspects of system compliance and technical management, from farm to retail customer. Clare also spent time consulting to a number of industry and government organisations.
Clare says she is excited to join the Australian macadamia industry.
“I’m really looking forward to using my skills and experience to deliver against the diverse requirements of the role, to being part of an expanding, changing and innovative industry that strives to meet the evolving needs of consumers and the trade in core and emerging markets.
“These are both exciting and challenging times for the macadamia industry, but with that comes the opportunity to review, prioritise and shape our future both domestically and on a global stage.”