New leaders appointed to promote region

New leadership for the South West Development Commission board has been announced with Nick Belyea taking on the top job, bringing extensive experience in aviation, tourism and transport.

Mr Belyea’s appointment as the commission board’s new chairman, replacing outgoing chairman Stuart Hicks, was announced by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan on Friday, when she also revealed Jennie Franceschi would take over the deputy chairman position from Sue Daubney.

Ms MacTiernan said Mr Hicks and Ms Daubney had been massive contributors to the South West.

Mr Belyea’s background is in aviation, tourism and transport in the public and private sectors.

He spent nine years as Broome International Airport’s chief executive officer and worked at the Department of Transport for 10 years overseeing aviation, rail, port and freight policy.

Ms Franceschi is the managing director and owner of Advance Packing and Marketing Services Pty Ltd and has been a leader in horticulture and value-adding with a number of agribusinesses.

It is hoped the appointments will help increase job opportunities in the South West region through their extensive experience.

“Nick and Jennie both have extensive experience across sectors that we need to engage with to grow the economy and increase job opportunities in the South West,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“Nick’s experience in aviation, tourism and transport will provide invaluable insight and leadership for the board of the South West Development Commission,” she said.

“Jennie has a proven track record of increasing employment in regional areas and in developing new products and opening up new markets.”