Kate Carnell elected new Chair of Australian Made

Former CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) Kate Carnell has been elected the first female Chair of the Australian Made Campaign Ltd.

Carnell replaces Allyn Beard – Director at mattress manufacturer A.H. Beard – as AMCL Chair. Beard is retiring from AMCL’s board after 14 years as a Director.

“My background in business has shown me how important it is to champion organisations that produce their products locally,” said Carnell in a statement on Thursday. 

“Australians are looking for Australian Made and Australian Grown products, and the Australian Made logo helps them exercise this preference.”

Carnell’s varied CV includes two terms as ACT Chief Minister, Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, and CEO of the Australian Food and Grocery Council.

Along with Beard, Fiona Simson is also retiring from AMCL’s board. 

“I would like to acknowledge the contribution of Fiona, who has been a valued member of the Australian Made Board of Directors for the last eight years,” said Beard. 

“On behalf of the Board and the staff of Australian Made, I would like to thank Fiona for her service and wish her all the best for the future.”

Former federal industry minister Kim Carr and Kerry Purcell, a former Managing Director of IBM in Australia and New Zealand, were announced as new Directors.

Picture: credit Kate Carnell/X