The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy’s (The AusIMM) new Chief Executive Officer is Michael Catchpole, who brings extensive experience in business and association management and in government, media and community relations. He was previously Chief Executive of the Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association (PACIA). He had previously worked as a political journalist and producer in ABC TV news and current affairs and with metropolitan daily newspapers. He also worked with global mining company BHP (as it was then) and, as an independent consultant, has provided project and issues management services to the private sector and to government departments and agencies.
The President of The AusIMM, Peter McCarthy, said Michael’s experience with a range of clients and stakeholders and with another influential industry body would provide an excellent base for his new role. “Our members are spread across industry, government and academia, and work with companies ranging from the major global mining groups to sole consultancies. They share a commitment to professionalism, a passion for the minerals industry and the desire to use their knowledge and skills for the benefit of the industry and the community. Michael has the experience and skills needed to ensure that The AusIMM continues to fulfil its members’ aims, and to further enhance the organisation’s influence with key decision makers and its engagement with communities.”
McCarthy paid tribute to the achievements of the previous CEO Don Larkin, who has retired after nearly nine years with AusIMM.
Catchpole says he is excited at the opportunities presented by his role as CEO of the pre-eminent organisation representing professionals in the minerals sector. “I see The AusIMM’s role as being to provide opportunities for professionals to advance their technical excellence and best practice, and to communicate their learned opinions to key decision makers. The future of the mining industry is inextricably linked to global environmental, economic and social sustainability. The positive impacts our members can have as we seek a sustainable industry extend far beyond the mining sector.”
He said the previous CEO, Don Larkin, had implemented many changes during his term to improve services to members and increase the influence of the organisation. One of the most recent innovations was the installation of a new IT system that would enable The AusIMM to better service and represent its increasingly mobile and global members.
