Regional Development Australia Hunter Chairman and former Newcastle Permanent Building Society Chairman, Michael Slater, on Friday won the prestigious NSW Business Chamber’s Business Leader of the Year award at a ceremony in Sydney.
Michael was specifically acknowledged for his service to the business community and according to Hunter Business Chamber director and past President Ross Taggart, his leadership and long-standing support to the Hunter business community.
The Business Leader of the Year Award recognises the positive contribution made to business by business people and professionals as well as outstanding entrepreneurial spirit, strategic business direction and innovative ideas.
“RDA Hunter Board and staff are very pleased that Mike has been recognised at a State level for his commitment to the region’s business community,” RDA Hunter CEO, Todd Williams, said.
“Mike has worked hard over many years to support and grow Hunter business and inspire upcoming business leaders. This award is testament to his dedication and demonstrates the esteem in which he is held across NSW.”
Michael is a champion of applied corporate governance for organisational performance and has diligently led the design and implementation of a governance framework which has made Newcastle Permanent one of the most respected customer owned institutions in Australia.
As a qualified accountant, Michael has used his experience to support and lead some of the Hunter’s most prestigious, successful and important organisations. In addition to his corporate role, Michael has dedicated countless hours to building and running charitable organisations which provide critical services and support to the regional NSW community and in particular the Hunter area.
“I’m honoured to receive this award from the NSW Business Chamber, and the recognition that comes with it,” Michael said.
“I’ve been fortunate in my career to work with some exceptional organisations in both the corporate and community sectors, learning from all of them. This award also recognises that professionals, the equal of any in the country, are operating in and driving our regional areas, and I’m proud to represent the Newcastle and Hunter region on this stage.”
IMAGE | Michael Slater
