August 16, 2022
Former Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC) chief Richard Simonaitis has been appointed CEO of Grains Australia.
Mr Simonaitis has led AEGIC for the past six years,
“Richard has cemented key industry services within AEGIC and I have no doubt he will lead new growth for the industry at Grains Australia,” AEGIC chair Ron Storey said.
“Richard has made an outstanding contribution at AEGIC. We wish him well in the new role.”
Grains Australia chair Terry Enright said Mr Simonaitis’ experience in market insight and analysis, innovation and education aligned with the core functions of Grains Australia.
“Grains Australia’s vision is to be the leader in delivering industry good services that add value to the Australian grains industry, and we are confident Richard will make significant progress in helping achieve this goal,” he said.
“The Board looks forward to working closely with Richard to ensure Grains Australia’s strategic plan is implemented effectively, while ensuring the best outcomes for the industry.”
Mr Simonaitis will officially take on his new role on November 1.
“I am looking forward to the opportunity to work closely with the Grains Australia team and Board to build on its achievements to date and improve connectivity across the value chain and
industry influence amongst key domestic and global stakeholders,” Mr Simonaitis said.
“I was attracted to this role because of the opportunity to take a collaborative approach to working closely with organisations across the Australian grains industry, in order to deliver
services that benefit the whole of the industry.”
