Seafood Industry Australia appoints Trade Export Manager to scale up exports
Seafood Industry Australia (SIA), the national peak-body representing the Australian seafood industry, has appointed a lead Trade Export Manager to steer the industry’s strategic export market diversification and expansion plans as they recover from the impacts of COVID and geopolitical tensions.
The appointment comes following the announcement of an $888,000 grant in July from the Australian Government to assist in the development of seafood export markets.
“I’m pleased to announce the appointment of Julie Willis to lead our Trade Export Management strategy,” SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta said.
“Julie comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience across international trade, marketing, and business development; having spent many years working in international trade market development, most recently for Hort Innovation Australia managing the whole-of-horticulture export brand ‘Taste Australia’.
“Julie will be working closely with all sectors of the Australian seafood industry, Austrade and their GEM program, the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, along with our broad stakeholder groups with a focus on expanding Australian seafood exports into new markets, and markets with high growth potential.”
“I am thrilled to join the Seafood Industry Australia team, and look forward to working on the industry’s trade export strategy from the ground up,” Ms Willis said.
“I grew up on a large cattle property in Northern Queensland, so primary production has always been in my blood.
“I was drawn to this role because of the challenges industry is facing and the knowledge my skills can help.
“I’ve found my niche, what I am passionate about and it’s a great feeling to jump out of bed and know that you can help someone; and in this case people who’ve had it rough these last 18 months.
“The program is in its infancy so I’m able to work from a grassroots level and identify the opportunities which is really exciting.”
“Importantly, our Trade Export Management team will support the whole-of-industry, regardless of sector or location. It will allow us to quickly deliver much needed support to the sectors who need it most,” Ms Papacosta said.
“This stream of work will support and complement the ‘Australian Seafood Industry Export Market Strategic Plan’, which is in development. Our Trade Export Management team will help to inform a whole-of-industry export program and support the seafood industry to further our reputation as a strong and stable export partner.
“We’re grateful for the continued support of the government, and look forward to developing new market opportunities to promote our Great Australian Seafood internationally under the umbrella of brand Australia.”
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To find out more about the program and how SIA can help you with your international trade agenda, please contact Julie on 0404 392 311 or email her on [email protected].
For more information or to organise an interview please contact SIA Communications and Public Affairs manager Jessica McInerney
M: 0420 695 431
