Regional Development Australia (RDA) Hunter has recently announced the appointment of Susan Wilson as CEO.

Susan has enjoyed an executive and non-executive career across the public/private sector and joined RDA Hunter in April.

Susan said she is looking forward to applying her long family connections to the Upper and Lower Hunter and international experience and credentials to the role.

“I’m looking forward to progressing the great work RDA Hunter has undertaken by applying my credentials and international experience across business, community, research and government,” Susan said.

“My passions include building the capability and capacity of people, communities and industries, particularly through innovation and investment.

“From international experience in government-led economic development, private sector business and current mentorships to SME start-up to scale-up businesses, I am equally passionate about building industry capability and competitiveness, supporting trade, investment and economic transition in the age of digitisation.

“I also strongly understand the social and economic importance of regional prosperity to communities, and am looking forward to continuing RDA Hunter’s focus on improving the region’s critical economic infrastructure.”

Susan’s business, government and public/private sector R&D experience includes the establishment and expanded role of Innovation & Science Australia; advisory and governance of the National Innovation & Science Agenda; leading NZ’s $10B Bioeconomy economic development portfolio and mentoring start-up to scale-up entrepreneurs through DIIS, CSIRO, Austrade & Slingshot programs/accelerators.

Susan will also bring to the role 20 years of international business and management consulting experience in strategy, public affairs, BD, and marketing and innovation across the biotech, pharma, medical technologies, public health and agrifood sectors.

IMAGE | Susan Wilson