Wilson will take over from Ben Hoodless who resigned after almost two years in the role
The International Fresh Produce Association Australia and New Zealand (IFPA ANZ) has appointed Belinda Wilson as its new managing director following the recent resignation of Ben Hoodless.
Wilson is an accomplished chief executive, lawyer and company director with extensive and diverse experience across a wide range of industries including the legal profession, membership associations, Australia’s seafood industry, Defence and veterans, and private sectors.
She brings to the role experience in developing and implementing innovative strategies, forging impactful stakeholder relationships and influencing industry wide policy change.
Her national advocacy efforts through various governance roles in the seafood industry including federal peak body, Seafood Industry Australia and the Victorian seafood industry, resulted in the growth of Australia’s brand and reputation while protecting a resilient and sustainable industry.
As chief executive of the Bravery Trust from 2019 to 2024, Wilson worked in collaboration with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and was instrumental in addressing the long-term financial wellness of veterans, improving and saving lives.
She said she would leverage that experience as well as knowledge gleaned from advocating for the vulnerable during her legal career, to advocate for IFPA ANZ members and the fresh produce and floral industry supply chain generally.
“The immediate focus will be on growing IFPA ANZ locally while feeding ideas globally, building connections through events such as (premier trade show) Hort Connections and nurturing healthy futures for all supply chain members,” Wilson said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to supporting and understanding members and continuing to highlight Australian and New Zealand fresh produce and floral, ensuring members are respected by consumers and supported by the entire supply chain, elevating our global visibility and representing the leaders of our incredible fresh produce and floral businesses at all levels.”
As the first civilian to be invited to study national strategy and leadership at the Australian War College, Wilson said key learnings from that experience would help build IFPA ANZ’s momentum for a national strategy towards the Federal Government’s proposed National Food Plan which aims to address food security.
Known for driving cultural change, growing brand recognition and developing strong stakeholder relationships, Wilson’s advocacy has also secured funding and influenced policy at national, state and community levels.
Hoodless, who was managing director for almost two years, will work alongside Wilson to transition the role.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience as managing director and I am looking forward to ensuring a thorough handover with Belinda before I focus my full attention on my own business Element Ag,” Hoodless said.
“Belinda brings considerable association experience and governance experience to this role. I wish her and the great team we have at IFPA ANZ all the success for the future.”
IFPA ANZ chairman Richard Byllaardt said: “We are thrilled to have Belinda join the team. She brings extensive experience to the role including working for other industry associations and having been appointed to numerous boards.
“Most of all, Belinda’s enthusiasm and drive will ensure IFPA ANZ can continue to evolve and deliver huge value for our members and the broader fresh produce industry.”
Wilson has won various national awards including Defence Executive of the Year (Women in Defence, 2023). Her appointment takes effect on January 6, 2025.
