AFGC gains new leadership

The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has announced the appointment of Kate Carnell to the position of chief executive.

AFGC chair Geoff Starr said that Carnell would bring a wealth of political, health and industry experience to the position.

“Kate’s career spans both the public and private sectors and she has a long history of active involvement in industry associations,” he said.

“The board is confident she will use her qualifications and leadership abilities to continue the development and operation of the AFGC.”

Ms Carnell is currently the CEO at the Australian General Practice Network and prior to this she held the position of executive director at the National Association of Forest Industries. She has been a practising pharmacist in Canberra, owning and developing a number of independent pharmacies.

“I am looking forward to bringing a focus on preventative health to the AFGC,” Carnell said.

Carnell is well known in Canberra through her previous role as Chief Minister of the ACT government from 1995 to 2000.

She will commence with AFGC on 7 July 2008, replacing outgoing chief executive Dick Wells, who had previously advised the board that he did not wish to renew his contract beyond the current term.