After a comprehensive recruitment process, Beef Australia have named Rockhampton businessman Ian Mill, as the new Chief Executive Officer to head the Beef Australia team as preparations and planning begin for the next expo in May 2021.
Beef Australia chairman Bryce Camm was the first to welcome Mr Mill and his diverse wealth of business experience and skill sets, having worked for over three decades in leading roles across the public, commercial and not for profit sectors.
Most recently, Ian was the CEO of Mercy Health and Aged Care Central Queensland Limited, a business with a workforce of around 1500 people across four private hospitals, three residential aged care facilities, retirement villages, and food and linen services.
Mr Camm said the board undertook a thorough and far reaching recruitment program spanning five weeks, which attracted in excess of fifty applications from across Australia and internationally.
“We were delighted with the extremely high calibre of applicants with many of these people elevated to our shortlist,” stated Mr Camm.
“We are confident that we have secured the best candidate and are excited by what Ian brings to the organisation through his vast experience.”
Mr Mill owns and managing a small beef cattle herd, but admits he doesn’t have an extensive history in the beef industry.
But he is very passionate about the sector, possessing a real appreciation of the importance it plays in the Australian economy and fabric.
“I haven’t missed a Beef Australia expo since my arrival in Rockhampton 20 years ago,” he said.
“Over that period, I’ve watched and admired the way that the event has evolved from having an industry focus, to now also catering for the broader community.
“What other event offers such a diverse range of attractions and world class activities not just for the rural sector, but also for locals.
I’m excited about the opportunity to join such a devoted team of people including the staff, board, and hundreds of volunteers and contractors responsible for delivering the next Beef Expo in 2021.”
The first Beef Exposition was conducted in 1988 as part of the Bicentennial project, and due to the success of the inaugural event, it is now conducted triennially.
Beef 2018 attracted in excess of 100,000 visitors through the gates including over 1200 international guests from forty-three different countries.
This year’s event delivered in excess of $80 million to the Central Queensland economy, affirming its position as the preeminent event of its kind in the southern hemisphere.
Mr Mill along with the board and staff are confident that in 2021 they will deliver another fantastic Beef Exposition packed with information, entertainment, great value and first-class attractions for locals and visitors alike.