Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) Chief Executive Officer, Brenda McGahan has informed the AWI Board of her intention to resign from the position of CEO of the organisation.

Stuart McCullough has been appointed as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AWI. The appointment takes effect immediately and Brenda McGahan leaves the company next Wednesday 17th March.

In accepting her resignation, AWI Chairman, Wal Merriman, said while he was disappointed she was not staying on in the role, he understood her rationale for leaving and wanted to pass on his and the Board’s gratitude for the tremendous amount she had achieved in the role over the past 12 months.

"I know of no better advocate for the wool industry in Australia than Brenda McGahan," Mr Merriman said.

"I know I will be just one of many woolgrowers who will be disappointed at Brenda’s decision. She created a great sense of excitement and hope for the future of the wool industry in what has been a very tough environment over the past couple of years."

Mr Merriman said Brenda's decision had been brought about by her frustration at the ongoing differences of opinion amongst members of the Board particularly since the AGM.

"Brenda has achieved a great deal in her time with the business including the successful outcome of the 2009 Wool Poll, the partnership approach to integrated marketing with both trade and consumer, and reduction in overall costs of $25 million as well as generating a general sense of unity amongst growers across Australia," Mr Merriman said.

"There is no doubt she will be leaving the organisation in much better shape than it was when she arrived."

"On behalf of all woolgrowers I want to pass on our thanks to Brenda and to wish her all the best for the future."

The AWI board has begun an extensive recruitment process for suitable candidates for the permanent position of CEO.

Source AWI