New Austrade CEO begins role

Former Kathmandu Holdings boss Xavier Simonet began as CEO of Austrade on Wednesday.

Former CEO Stephanie Fahey finished at Austrade in July, with Tim Beresford the acting CEO since then.

“Austrade plays an important role helping Australian businesses access international opportunities and securing investment to grow our industries, from providing direct assistance to tourism operators, helping our exporters diversify to new overseas markets, and securing air freight for premium perishable goods and critical imports,” said trade minister Dan Tehan in a statement.

“Mr Simonet has business acumen and a proven record of leading successful international brands. His international perspective, deep experience and strong brand management will help Australian businesses succeed internationally.”

Simonet was most recently group CEO and managing director of Kathmandu Holdings, and previously a CEO of Radley London. He was named as incoming Austrade CEO in November.

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