26 October 2017
AIMEX President, Richard Chapman announced today that CEO Mary Anne Edwards has accepted an offer to join the Board of AIMEX where she will focus on the national and international superyacht industry, on-going Government relations and strategic planning.
Alongside the Board, Edwards has been instrumental in driving significant growth in the organisation which now represents 3 key sectors of the marine industry: marine manufacturers that export, companies in the supply chain to the commercial/defence marine space, and the expanding Superyacht industry.
Over the last 9 years, under Edwards’ leadership, AIMEX has gone from strength to strength, gaining an enhanced membership base and significant international standing.
Chapman said, “Whilst Ms Edwards has resigned as CEO, we are elated that Mary Anne is joining the Board of AIMEX, ensuring strong continuity within the organisation. The relationships Mary Anne has developed are invaluable, and it is critical that these relationships continue to be maintained and further developed.
Chapman further commented “Edwards will continue to be heavily involved with Superyacht industry liaison, both at government level and internationally, however from February 2018, will no longer be managing the day to day operations of the organization. We will now undertake a search for a new CEO and hope to have the position filled by year end.”
Edwards commented “I am proud of what my team and the Board have achieved over the past 9 years, but it is time for me to step out of operations management into other interests.
I have accepted a position on the AIMEX Board and look forward to focusing on the developing superyacht industry, the membership, and our industry partners.
As many people know, one of the key reasons I have stayed on in the role of CEO is due to my admiration and respect for the current Board members who truly do represent the whole industry and leave their own business agendas outside the boardroom door.
It is an exciting time for me to continue my involvement at this level in the Australian marine industry and the superyacht industry sector, which has tremendous potential and significant economic benefits for Australia.”
Ms Edwards will take up the AIMEX Board role mid-February 2018 and will have specific focus on the Superyacht sector, government relations, and strategic planning.