Dantia has announced the appointment of Kristen Keegan as its new CEO, effective 30 May 2015.
Announcing Kristen’s appointment, Dantia Chairman Trent Bagnall said that Kristen is an exceptional leader.
“Her track record in attracting investment and effective advocacy for the business community across the broader Hunter region has been extraordinary,” Trent said.
“Kristen was chosen in a competitive selection process from a strong field of candidates. She is a highly impressive talent known for her collaborative leadership style and for driving economic and business development within the region.”
Kristen joins Dantia after five successful years as Chief Executive Officer at the Hunter Business Chamber and brings a wealth of experience primarily in the fields of infrastructure development, government and investor relations and business advocacy.
Reflecting on her appointment, Kristen said she was honoured and excited to have been selected to lead the next stage of development and investment in a City as impressive as Lake Macquarie.
Mayor of Lake Macquarie, Cr Jodie Harrison, said the appointment of Kristen signals a new era of well-planned economic development activity in the City.
“Kristen and the members of the Board are passionate about the success of Lake Macquarie City. Our vision for the City is to create vibrancy and prosperity through sustainable economic growth and increased employment opportunities. We want to build on our strengths, assisting existing businesses and targeting emerging industries to expand development in the City, while balancing the lifestyle and environmental aims of the community.”
Hunter Business Chamber President, Ross Taggart, said the Board acknowledged the critical contribution Kristen made to the Chamber over the past five years and feel confident that she leaves the Chamber with a strong team to build on the great work already done.
“Kristen’s key contributions during her time have ranged from the development of the Hunter First program that now boasts 59 members, to providing disaster recovery assistance after the April 2015 storm and further growth of the Hunter Business Awards.” Ross said.
“Kristen will certainly be missed but the Hunter Business Chamber will be in the safe hands of Acting CEO, Anita Hugo.”
