HunterNet last week announced the appointment of Ivan Waterfield as their new CEO, which will be effective as of June 2021.
Ivan was chosen after an extensive and competitive selection process and brings with him a wealth of leadership experience from manufacturing, logistics, mining, and transport industries.
He has previously held executive General Manager roles along with Project Management and operational experience within all the sectors in which HunterNet represents.
HunterNet Chairman, Steve Tolley said there were many great applicants to consider, and that the calibre of entries further testifies Australia’s strong footing in the industry sector.
“We were overwhelmed by the high calibre of applicants for the role, with over 50 applicants locally, across Australia and internationally. The strength of the HunterNet brand attracted great talent,” Steve said.
“Ivan was a perfect fit for this role, as he is a leader who is passionate about assisting organisations achieve transformational change and growth.
“He is a strategic thinker who values people and knows that effective engagement will achieve the best results.”
Ivan is well respected amongst peers in industry, government and fellow HunterNet stakeholders. He has an excellent track record of success, working with government clients and tier 1 contractors to implement major programs within the transport, mining, and manufacturing fields.
He has held General Manager roles locally with WesTrac, UGL and Downer, and internationally with Alstom and Bombardier
HunterNet engaged local recruitment specialist and long-term HunterNet member, Forsythes Recruitment to assist with the appointment process.
“Many of our members know Ivan as the Chairman of the HunterNet Group Training Company Board, a role he has held since 2009,” Steve said.
“His strategic leadership and sound governance were key to the successful turnaround of the Group Training Company
“Ivan’s strategic and people focused leadership skills will be highly valued by HunterNet and our members. The Board is very much looking forward to working with Ivan as we influence and facilitate growth in our regional economy through collaboration, innovation and supporting our members achieve their objectives,” he concluded.
Ivan said he is thrilled by the opportunity and to contribute to the future of local industries as CEO of HunterNet
“I am excited by the opportunity as this really is a pinnacle in my career,” Ivan said.
“HunterNet is key to the success of the region’s manufacturing and engineering sector. There is a groundswell of sentiment at the federal government level and within the broader community to bring manufacturing back onshore, I believe the next five to ten years will be crucial to the sector.
“I look forward to working with the members of HunterNet to maximise the opportunity for our region.”
Ivan will take over as CEO from Boris Novak, who filled an interim role of General Manager in January this year after the passing of HunterNet’s CEO, Tony Cade.
“Boris made an immediately positive impact, has attracted more members to HunterNet and continued to focus on increasing our value to our members,” Steve said.
“He was instrumental in having the Hunter Region chosen as a Hydrogen Technology Cluster and securing seed funding to establish hydrogen projects and technology supply chain across the country.
“We thank Boris for his commitment to the interim arrangement. Boris will continue to support our members in a leading position within HunterNet.”
HunterNet will introduce Ivan Waterfield to members at its annual general meeting (AGM) on 18 May at ArmorGalv in Thornton.
IMAGE | HunterNet Chairman, Steve Tolley and newly appointed CEO, Ivan Waterfield (left-right).
