Leading agribusiness banking executive, Bruce McConnel, has been appointed the new general manager of Food Leaders Australia (FLA) – a sister entity of the Toowoomba Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE).
When announcing the new appointment TSBE executive chairman Shane Charles said they were excited about what Bruce can bring to their team and the region,
“The McConnel family is one steeped in agriculture and for FLA to be able to secure the services of Bruce is a great win for the region,” Mr Charles said.
Bruce completed a Bachelor of Agribusiness and Diploma of Export Management through the University of Queensland in 2001.
Over the past 17 years he has enjoyed various roles throughout the Australian finance industry, specifically within Agribusiness.
His most recent role was as the Regional Manager – South West Queensland, Regional and Agribusiness Banking for the Commonwealth Bank of Australia Limited.
Bruce has specific interest and expertise in beef, horticulture, grains and cotton industries and their respective supply chains.
“We think Bruce will be highly effective in his role given his passion for agriculture, and business,” Mr Charles said.
“An example of this is, Bruce, has previously been awarded the National Rural Ambassador Award.
“This is an award that highlights exceptional individuals involved within the Rural and Agricultural Industries.
“To win the award one must show an excellent knowledge of rural industries, relevant public policy and have an ability to communicate with influence.”
FLA supports the growth of food and agricultural businesses to allow them to capitalise on new market opportunities, innovation and more.
“I’m excited to be able to work with all businesses within the region to ensure we capture all the opportunities we can,” Bruce said.
”We in a period of extraordinary investment within the region.
“This partnered with strong commodity prices, recent strong seasonal conditions and large industry confidence, we are seeing more opportunities than ever before.
“TSBE, and FLA, to date have done a great job growing all sectors of our regional economy. It’s a great honour to work with such a great team to continue to deliver key benefits for the region.”
Bruce will start with FLA on August 28.
Helen Walker
Helen is the Toowoomba-based journalist who loves nothing better than covering anything horse sport related, however she covers all commodities and personality yarns. Over the years she has lived in Brisbane, Rockhampton, Longreach and Roma filing stories for the 'bible of the bush'. Contact 0459 827414.
Helen is the Toowoomba-based journalist who loves nothing better than covering anything horse sport related, however she covers all commodities and personality yarns. Over the years she has lived in Brisbane, Rockhampton, Longreach and Roma filing stories for the 'bible of the bush'. Contact 0459 827414.
