Jonathan Eccles has been appointed inaugural executive director at the Australian Horticultural Exporters’ Association (AHEA).
Eccles, who has previously held the position of chief executive officer at Potatoes South Australia and Australian Banana Growers Council, commenced his role in this newly created position last week.
Upon announcing his appointment in a media release, AHEA chairman David Minnis expressed delight at having the opportunity to work with Eccles to help develop and lead the organisation, which he said was shared by his fellow directors.
“His skills and wide experience in industry development, communications, marketing, research, market access and leadership will be an asset to the AHEA,” Minnis said.
The AHEA is the national peak representative body for Australian horticultural exporting businesses to governments and industry. It is currently undergoing a restructure to meet the needs of horticulture importers as well as exporters.
“Many of the issues facing horticultural exporters such as quarantine and market access also face importers so it is logical that the AHEA now represents this sector of the industry at a national level,” Minnis said.
The AHEA chairman added that horticultural produce export opportunities remained high despite challenges including market access and the high Australian dollar that have contributed to a decline in A$200m decline in exports.
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