Advanced simulation facility NQ SPARK has today announced its new board appointments.
Townsville Acting Mayor Paul Jacob said Townsville City Council's chief executive officer Joe McCabe would join NQ SPARK's board as a director.
The decision to appoint Mr McCabe as an NQ SPARK board director was passed at Council's Ordinary Meeting today.
"Council has made the decision to appoint Joe as a director on the NQ SPARK board to continue operational stability and momentum, as well as to have Council contributing towards the vision of the organisation," Cr Jacob said.
"As a director of NQ SPARK, Joe will be able to appoint a member of Council to replace him as director to ensure there are no conflicts between his duties as Council CEO and his duties as a board member of NQ SPARK. He will also be able to nominate a second director to join the board of NQ SPARK.
"By moving to appoint Joe as a director on the NQ SPARK board, we will ensure critical board positions are filled as quickly and efficiently as possible.
"This new oversight will also allow Council to have more visibility into how its investments are being managed to ensure the best outcomes for the organisation and the people of Townsville."
The leadership renewal comes following the resignation of chairperson Lt Gen (Ret.) John Caligari AO DSC and deputy chairperson Dr Mick Reilly OAM PhD, who both played instrumental roles in establishing NQ SPARK's strategic foundation.
NQ SPARK executive general manager John Welsh extended his thanks to the former board members.
"John and Mick have been invaluable in their roles, offering NQ SPARK their time, commitment and leadership. Their contributions have been essential to NQ SPARK's progress, and their visionary leadership, tireless commitment and pivotal roles in driving the organisation's success are greatly appreciated," Mr Welsh said.
"The board structure is designed to harness the collective expertise of its shareholder representatives and independent directors to maintain NQ SPARK's strategic momentum.
"With a focus on bringing fresh leadership to the board, NQ SPARK's shareholders are committed to selecting individuals who possess the necessary experience, expertise, and strategic vision to guide NQ SPARK through its next phase of expansion.
"NQ SPARK's mission to enhance Australia's capabilities in advanced simulation technologies is of national importance, and the new leadership team changes signify the shareholders' unwavering commitment to fostering a dynamic and resilient organisation that aims to deliver excellence on a national and international scale."
NQ SPARK will deliver world-class simulation and training opportunities for North Queensland with state-of-the-art facilities supported by Townsville City Council, the Queensland Government and James Cook University.
