The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has appointed industry leader Janette Hewson as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Hewson is set to replace Ian Macfarlane, who will retire at the year’s end.
Her most recent post was Executive Vice President, ESG at Santos, and she has previously held senior positions with South 32 and Peabody Energy.
Throughout her career, Janette has served on various state and national boards and industry association roles, including the QRC Board. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from QUT and a Bachelor of Arts (Modern Asian Studies and Japanese Language) from Griffith University, and she was previously named a Queensland Exceptional Woman in Resources.
Janette is highly renowned for her leadership and vast business experience, according to QRC Board President Adam Lancey, and her appointment will be welcomed across the sector.
“Janette will lead the QRC at a time when the industry faces changes, challenges and opportunities as the sector continues to power Queensland’s economy while providing the minerals and materials needed for decarbonisation,” Lancey said.
He stated that the QRC will uphold and advance industry standards in health and safety, diversity, inclusion, and environmentally responsible practices under Hewson’s leadership.
“The QRC will also continue to promote the importance of the resources sector to the long-term future of Queensland and advocate for policy to ensure the industry has the certainty and stability to keep investing in projects and skills.”
Hewson expressed her eagerness to collaborate with various stakeholders, including governments, local communities, and regional partners, to achieve positive outcomes for Queensland’s resources sector and all Queenslanders.
“It’s an immense privilege to represent an industry that underpins the Queensland economy and supports the jobs of more than 530,000 people,” Hewson said.
“For this to continue, we need all stakeholders focussed on industry stability and the ongoing, long-term jobs and business opportunities our sector can provide.”
