Senior BHP Billiton executive Megan Clark has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
Senior BHP Billiton executive Megan Clark has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
Dr Clark will start a five year term at the start of next year, taking over from current chief executive Geoff Garrett.
She is currently BHP's vice president of health, safety, environment, community and sustainability.
Federal minister for innovation, industry, science and research Kim Carr said Dr Clark's broad experience will be an invaluable asset to the organisation.
"Her experience will also be critical to the central role the CSIRO will play in helping to revitalise Australia's national innovation system," Senator Carr said.
"I look forward to working with Dr Clark to ensure that CSIRO maintains and strengthens its position as Australia's pre-eminent research organisation."
Below is the full announcement:
Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research today announced Dr Megan Clark as the new Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
Dr Clark will succeed Dr Geoff Garrett, whose term as Chief Executive ends on 31 December 2008.
Welcoming Dr Clark's appointment, Senator Carr said her experience in science, research and business would allow her to represent the CSIRO on the national and international stage.
"The Government is very pleased that Dr Clark has agreed to lead the CSIRO," Senator Carr said.
"Her vast leadership experience in the development and application of science and technology in a business environment will be an invaluable asset for the CSIRO and for the nation.
"Dr Clark understands the work of CSIRO and appreciates the unique challenges the organisation faces.
"Her experience will also be critical to the central role the CSIRO will play in helping to revitalise Australia's national innovation system," he said.
Dr Clark is currently the Vice President Health, Safety, Environment, Community and Sustainability at BHP Billiton. She has been appointed as Chief Executive of CSIRO for a five year term commencing in January 2009.
"I look forward to working with Dr Clark to ensure that CSIRO maintains and strengthens its position as Australia's pre-eminent research organisation," Senator Carr said.
"CSIRO is an important institution for all Australians. I have no doubt that Dr Clark will lead the organisation with vision and purpose."
