Interim CEO’s Report

Scott Greensill

I have been undertaking the role of Interim CEO since late May 2022 while the organisation progresses through a transition period. With the appointment of the new CEO anticipated in the near future, I would like to provide you with some of my views and perspectives on IPWEAQ and how it could progress and evolve.

As a member-based organisation, the focus must be always on the delivery of services to meet the needs of the members. Keeping abreast with industry changes and the delivery of training and other programs is therefore critical to achieving this outcome. Continual evaluation and consideration of member feedback becomes a primary driver for the services that are delivered. IPWEAQ needs to improve in this area and, as such, members should expect to be consulted more to ensure deliverables are both relevant and in line with today’s expectations.

As a relatively small organisation and company, IPWEAQ also needs to carefully manage the limited resources that it has available. Improved internal processes, governance and accountability all work to achieve a more efficient and effective organisation that is not only reputable but also gives members confidence that their fees and payments are delivering what they want and are being managed responsibly. The Board of IPWEAQ has embarked on a re-set program to improve overall operations. This process will take some time to implement, but if undertaken correctly will hold IPWEAQ in good stead for the future as a sustainable organisation.

It would be remiss of me not to mention our Annual Conference that was held in Brisbane, 1113 October 2022. In total 462 delegates attended, supported by 10 sponsors and 64 exhibitors. This was an outstanding result, and I would like to thank all who attended for making the conference a success. With several staff changes during the year, many IPWEAQ employees had to work long and hard to ensure the conference not only went ahead, but was a quality event. I specifically would like to mention and acknowledge the efforts of IPWEAQ Events and Marketing Manager, Rebecca Cobon. Rebecca only joined IPWEAQ in late May this year and her efforts in bringing the conference together in such a short time period is not only a credit to her skills, but also highlights her dedication to making the event something for all to remember. We are expecting to announce the venue and location for next year’s conference soon, so watch this space.

Vale Suzanna Barnes-Gillard

It is with sadness that we advise of the recent passing of former IPWEAQ CEO Suzanna BarnesGillard.

Commencing with IPWEAQ in 2001, Suzanna was CEO for 14 years until her retirement in 2015.

She was instrumental in building up IPWEAQ and expanding its operations significantly and, in doing so, elevated the association to a reputable and acknowledged industry peak body.

Long-term IPWEAQ members speak with much warmth and admiration for Suzanna, both as a person and for her achievements.

Our sympathy goes out to her family and friends.

As this will be the last Journal Issue before the end of the year, I would like to extend on behalf of all IPWEAQ employees a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our members and partners … but most importantly, take care and be safe.