HVCCC has secured one of Australia’s foremost business leaders, Noel Cornish AM, as Chairman.
Originally from Newcastle, Mr Cornish has achieved notable international and Australian business success across multiple sectors, including roles as President, Northstar BHP LLC in the USA and Chief Executive of Bluescope Steel’s Australian and New Zealand manufacturing businesses.
Since his retirement from executive duties Mr Cornish has held a number of non-executive positions.
He is currently Chairman of Snowy Hydro Ltd and IMB Bank and a Director of Forestry Corporation NSW and Venues NSW. His previous roles include National President of the Australian Industry Group, the country’s peak industry body representing 60,000 businesses, and Deputy Chancellor of the University of Wollongong.
Mr Cornish obtained his Bachelor and Masters degrees at The University of Newcastle and also attended the University of Michigan Business School.
He was appointed an Order of Australia (AM) in 2017 for his business leadership and community services.
HVCCC CEO Dr Kirsten Molloy said Mr Cornish brings leadership, skills and industry knowledge that will add significant value to the HVCCC as it embraces changes in processes and technology to continue driving efficiencies and maximising throughput across the coal industry.
“I and all HVCCC Directors and staff acknowledge the experience, skills and industry expertise Noel brings to the organisation,” Dr Molloy said.
“Given the complexities of the coal chain and the ongoing need for coordination, investment planning and stakeholder management, it will be invaluable having Noel on board as local coal exports continue to increase.”
Mr Cornish said the opportunity to fill such a position in his city of origin has professional and personal significance.
“I grew up and studied in Newcastle, worked in the coal industry in this region and have watched the HVCCC become a world leader of supply chain management.
“An early priority will be meeting with the many member organisations to sharpen my understanding of the strategic issues and opportunities at HVCCC.”
Mr Cornish takes up the position as of 1 December.
The HVCCC has extended sincere thanks to outgoing Chairman and coal sector stalwart Tony Haraldson, who is retiring after eight years in the role and more than five decades in the Hunter coal industry.
The HVCCC oversees the largest coal export operation in the world, which is on track to export 165 million tonnes of coal worth coal in excess of $15 billion in 2017.
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