The national employer association, Ai Group, has today announced the appointment of its new Head of Queensland.
Michelle Farquhar joins us from the national energy market operator, AEMO, where she has worked for the past two years as Manager of Corporate Affairs with a focus on strategic projects and internal communications.
In an earlier role with AEMO, she was principal in charge of partnerships, strategy and market development.
Michelle has also worked at Queensland Health, with a focus on gender equity, and indigenous recruitment at board levels.
Ai Group Chief Executive Innes Willox said the appointment came at an important time in Queensland, with a state election scheduled for October.
"Michelle will be a great connector with members, government and regulators.
"She has a demonstrated capacity to bring people together and to simplify potentially complex issues," he said.
Ms Farquhar said she was looking forward to representing Ai Group members in Queensland.
"The State has enormous opportunities in the current climate, and I am delighted to join Ai Group, which has a long and proud history of being an effective voice for businesses, large and small.
"I am looking forward to being part of a very professional outfit and representing our members at a critical time," she said.
Ms Farquhar will work closely with Dean Deighton, who has been promoted to Head – Northern Australia from his dual roles of Acting Head of Queensland and Regional Manager – North Queensland.
"I wish Michelle and Dean much success in their new roles," Mr Willox said.
"Our members in Queensland and northern Australia are in good hands."