The Business Centre appoints new Chief Executive Officer

The Business Centre appoints new Chief Executive Officer

The Business Centre has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, following Pierre Malou’s resignation from the post earlier this year, announcing Steve Wait as the new CEO. 

Alongside Pierre Malou, Steve Wait has led the well-known not-for profit organisation through an exciting period of growth.  

Over the last 24 months, The Business Centre has grown their team of Business Advisors, become the lead provider of Business Support in the NDIS sector and secured Australian Government funding through the Incubator Support initiative for its acceleration program Start House.  

The Business Centre’s Board of Directors have appointed Steve Wait to the role of Chief Executive Officer. 

Although disappointed that Newcastle’s loss will be New Zealand’s gain, Mr. Wait is very excited about continuing his friendship and ongoing collaboration with Mr. Malou. 

“I am very proud to carry the flag for the Business Centre going forward,” Mr. Wait said. 

“We have worked hard as a team and proven that ongoing and affordable advice is not only beneficial for every day businesses but is also critical for supporting our growing innovation ecosystem.”  

The decision was made unanimously by the board of directors who have backed Steve’s strategic vision and believe his appointment as CEO and his experience will see the continuity needed in these exciting times.  

“I am pleased that we have been able to move to an outcome that is in the best interests of The Business Centre, our staff, and our extensive client base,” stated Mr. Frank Herb, the Chair of the Board. 

“The Board and I look forward to continuing to work with Steve in the interesting and challenging times ahead. ”  

“I will be working with the Board on the future management structure and strategy of the Business Centre which Pierre and I have operated over the past two years as CEO and COO.” Mr. Wait said. 

“I know with the amazing people I lead at The Business Centre we are set to do remarkable and amazing things for people in our regions operating start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs.” 

Mr. Malou has left Newcastle for an exciting opportunity in Christchurch, New Zealand with the Ministry of Awesome as their Chief Operations Officer.  

Still working with start-ups and the innovation ecosystem, Pierre will be bringing his skills to the university-based incubator to support the innovation ecosystem as Christchurch rebuilds itself after the 2011 earthquake.  

“Though we have lost our charismatic friend and colleague, I see it as gaining a sister city across the ditch,” said Mr. Wait. 

Christchurch has many comparable qualities to Newcastle as a second-tier city and the opportunity for exchanging ideas, business opportunities and best practices are many. 

IMAGE | Pierre Malou passes on the role of CEO to Steve Wait at the Business Centre. 

The Business Centre

The Business Centre meets amazing people who take courageous steps to start up, scale up and exit their business every day. By providing a foundation for advice, learning, mentoring and accelerating, the centre works with business owners from all walks of life to achieve their business dreams. This is their DNA and their purpose for operating. The Business Centre works with you to see your business succeed.

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