AMTIL, the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited, has announced the appointment of experienced industry executive Lorraine Maxwell (Chiroiu) as CEO, following the retirement of outgoing CEO Shane Infanti after 25 years at the helm
Lorraine comes with a wealth of experience in an industry membership peak body and the not-for-profit sector, having spent the past 15 years with AusBiotech, an Australian biotechnology industry organisation, including the past five and a half years as their CEO. After an exhaustive selection process, the AMTIL Board is pleased to see Lorraine Maxwell take office on 1st May.
Lorraine led AusBiotech’s work to grow and promote Australia’s strength in biotechnology, influence policy change with state and Federal governments, serve and build its 3000-strong membership, galvanise networks, and succeed through strategic engagement and partnerships.
She has played a key role in developing and advocating for manufacturing policy and support, specifically in medical manufacturing. She is currently chairing CSIRO’s Manufacturing Business Unit Advisory Group, and serves as a Ministerial appointment to the Trade 2040 Taskforce.
Lorraine’s broader experience includes policy and commincations roles with a multinational pharmaceutical manufacturer, a not-for profit membership organisation, a university faculty and a charity. She has tertiary qualifications in business, management, public relations and governance.
AMTIL President Brigitte Stavar says, “we are so delighted to have secured Lorraine in this role. Her skill set is exactly what we were looking for and we are sure she will be able to take AMTIL on their next phase of evolution.”
“This next phase includes a stronger level of advocacy and a voice for our local manufacturers. Lorraine’s expertise in this area is definitely a key reason why she was successful through the application process.
Brigitte added, “I would like to also take the opportunity, on behalf of our Board of Directors, to thank Shane for his outstanding service to AMTIL over 25 years and wish him all the best as he transitions to retirement.”
Shane indicated he had mixed feelings about leaving AMTIL after such a long tenure. “When I was employed as CEO in 1999, I couldn’t have imagined the journey it would take me on, the friendships I would make and the impact our small organisation would have on the manufacturing sector in Australia.”
“I am genuinely excited about handing over to Lorraine. Her fresh set of eyes, strategic mindset and renewed enthusiasm will take us a long way into the future.”
Lorraine congratulated Shane on his significant legacy and contribution to AMTIL, and said: “It is a great privilege to join an organisation that is successful, solid and has a view to the future. I look forward to leading AMTIL with the Board to further build Australian manufacturing.”