In a series of significant executive appointments across South Australia, several organizations have announced new leadership roles that are set to influence various sectors, including energy, education, and finance. These appointments highlight a strategic shift towards innovation, sustainability, and community engagement.
Sparc Hydrogen Welcomes Inaugural CEO
Alana Barlow has been named the inaugural CEO of Sparc Hydrogen as the company transitions its Roseworthy pilot plant from commissioning to operational testing. Previously serving as the Queensland Government’s deputy director-general for hydrogen and future fuels, Barlow brings extensive experience in the sector.
“I’m delighted to join Sparc Hydrogen at this pivotal stage,” Barlow stated. “With the Roseworthy pilot now operational and strong partnerships in place, my focus will be building on those foundations by demonstrating commercial viability and positioning Sparc Hydrogen to deliver next-generation hydrogen solutions.”
Sparc Hydrogen, a collaboration between Sparc Technologies and the University of Adelaide, aims to explore low-cost green hydrogen production pathways, aligning with global trends towards sustainable energy solutions.
Leadership Changes in Education and Defence
Australian Defence Technologies Academy Appoints Foundation Director
Dr. Todd Mansell has been appointed as the foundation director of the Australian Defence Technologies Academy (ADTA). With 35 years of leadership experience in defence and national security sectors, Mansell will guide ADTA from planning to implementation.
His previous role with the Australian Submarine Agency involved establishing Australia’s STEM workforce and engineering frameworks, critical for national defence capabilities.
TAFE SA’s New Chief Executive
Adam Kilvert, who has been serving as the interim Chief Executive of TAFE SA since July, has been confirmed for a three-year term. Kilvert’s interim achievements include increasing trades capacity and securing new funding to enhance TAFE SA’s educational offerings.
Education, Training and Skills Minister Blair Boyer expressed confidence in Kilvert’s leadership, stating, “He is a well-regarded high-performing executive in the public sector, and I have no doubt that his leadership will continue to drive the success of TAFE now and well into the future.”
Strategic Appointments in Energy and Finance
Whitebark Energy’s New CEO
Nik Sykiotis has been appointed CEO of Whitebark Energy, having previously served as the company’s chief operating officer. With 15 years of experience in upstream oil and gas, Sykiotis is expected to lead Whitebark through a transition towards cleaner energy sources.
Whitebark Energy chairman Mark Lindh remarked, “The Board is delighted to appoint Nik as CEO. He brings a strong operational background with proven leadership capability and is well-suited to lead the business through its next phase of growth.”
HomeStart’s Leadership Expansion
John Hood, Chancellor of Flinders University, has commenced as chair of HomeStart, a State Government-backed lender. Alongside Hood, Susan Crago has joined the board, bringing her expertise as Chief Governance and Risk Officer at the RAA.
HomeStart CEO Andrew Mills welcomed the new board members, emphasizing their alignment with HomeStart’s values and purpose.
Winemaking and IT Sectors See New Leadership
Beresford Estate’s Head Winemaker
Natalie Cleghorn, a two-time finalist for the Australian Women in Wine Awards, has been appointed head winemaker at Beresford Estate. Cleghorn will oversee operations at the 70-acre vineyard in McLaren Vale, focusing on style development and sustainability.
“I am excited to join Beresford Estate and to lead its winemaking team through a new era of excellence,” Cleghorn said.
Legal Services’ Director of Information Services
Amanda Rolland has been appointed the director of information services at Legal Services, bringing over two decades of experience in the IT industry. Her expertise in ICT leadership and cyber security is expected to enhance the organization’s information services.
Legal Services CEO Annmarie Lumsden noted, “Amanda’s extensive experience in ICT leadership, risk management, and cyber security will be invaluable as we enhance our information services and deliver accessible, secure, and innovative solutions for the South Australian community.”
These appointments reflect a broader trend of strategic leadership changes across South Australia, positioning these organizations to better meet future challenges and opportunities. As these leaders take on their new roles, their impact will likely be felt across their respective industries, driving innovation and growth.
