I am pleased to be the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of The Communications Council on March 1. The extensive work that has gone into restructuring your peak industry body to improve industry representation should not be underestimated. It signals a renewed commitment by the Council to ensure we deliver the member services that are most needed including positively promoting the industry, fostering creativity as well as providing high quality education services.
By way of background I have most recently been the Chief of Staff to the immediate past Premier of Tasmania, among other senior political positions. I have held chief executive and senior executive positions in numerous national and state based industry associations within hotel, tourism and alcohol industries. These industries have been challenged by increased regulation over the years, a similar situation the advertising industry is grappling with at the moment.
It is essential a strong industry voice is heard and eloquently presented to law makers to stem the potential for increased regulation on our business. We face a time where a vocal minority seek to add further restrictions designed to limit creativity and the way messages can be delivered. Creativity plays a key role in our society and it should be encouraged, not stifled. The Communications Council will be at the forefront of representing your interests and providing a balancing voice in what is often a one-sided debate. I look forward to working closely with all members and will make myself known to as many as possible in the coming weeks and months. The Communications Council exists to serve the industry and it is a privilege to be appointed to lead the body as it refines its activities and further develops its new identity.