Regional Development Australia (RDA) Hunter is delighted to announce the appointment of Kate O’Mara as its new Chief Executive Officer. With extensive experience in regional development and the RDA network, and a deep understanding of the Hunter region’s unique opportunities and challenges, Kate is poised to lead RDA Hunter into its next chapter.
Kate will continue to work closely with the Board, local businesses, industry leaders, and government stakeholders to deliver initiatives that identify and profile the region’s competitive strengths, support the region’s industries and build a skilled, homegrown workforce. Under her leadership, RDA Hunter will continue to deliver on the Regional Development Australia Charter and Regional Investment Framework and communicate the region’s priorities to governments.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kate as the new CEO of RDA Hunter,” said Chair, John Turner OAM. “With her regional development background, intimate knowledge of RDA Hunter and the RDA network more broadly, and passion for the region, Kate is the ideal person to drive RDA Hunter’s vision forward. We are confident that under Kate’s guidance the organisation will continue to play a pivotal role in the growth and development of the Hunter, ensuring that it is positioned for future success.”
Kate said she is excited and honoured to step into the role of CEO. “I’m looking forward to helping RDA Hunter be a strong representative in and for the region. We’re in the unique position of being supported by the Australian Government under the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories of Australia with the autonomy and scope to drive initiatives that are important to our region.
“My priority is to strengthen our partnerships locally, nationally and internationally and build on the work we’ve undertaken since 2009 to quantify and communicate the Hunter’s strengths and opportunities for investment.”
John continued, “We thank and recognise retiring CEO, Trevor John, for his dedication and significant contributions to RDA Hunter and the region during his eight years in the role. Under Trevor’s leadership RDA Hunter has fostered important partnerships that have resulted in positive outcomes for the region’s people, local economies and our industry base. On behalf of my fellow Directors, I wish Trevor all the best in his retirement.”