January 31, 2022
Former Paroo Shire Council Mayor Jo Sheppard has been appointed CEO of the Queensland Farmers’ Federation.
Ms Sheppard most recently served as Director of Stakeholder Engagement at the University of Southern Queensland.
Her previous roles also include CEO of the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce and a Director on the Board of Sunwater.
“Advocating on behalf of Queensland’s farmers is a significant responsibility, and given the importance of the agriculture sector to the State’s economy and regional communities, effective representation is critical,” Ms Sheppard said.
“Despite facing ongoing challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, rising input prices, biosecurity incursions and climate change, Queensland farmers continue to produce world-class food, fibre and foliage.
“I look forward to supporting and striving for a better deal for Queensland’s farmers to strengthen their productivity and profitability into the future.”
QFF President Allan Dingle thanked outgoing CEO Dr Georgina Davis and welcomed Ms Sheppard to her new role.
“Jo has demonstrated clear leadership and advocacy skills throughout her career, and her organisational and stakeholder engagement experience will be crucial assets for QFF, our industry members and the State’s farmers,” Mr Dingle said.
“Under her direction, QFF will continue to progress a broad range of economic, social, environmental and regional issues of strategic importance to improve the operating environment for Queensland’s farmers.”
Ms Sheppard will begin work with QFF on February 14.
