Release Date: 27/06/2014
Susan Parr, a tireless supporter of business in Tasmania, is the new chair of the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Ms Parr was appointed chair at yesterday’s monthly meeting of the TCCI following Andrew Heap’s decisions to stand down because of family and business commitments. Former Burnie City Council General Manager and business consultant Paul Arnold has been appointed Deputy Chair.
Ms Parr is the CEO of St Ann’s Homes, which own and manage two care homes in Hobart and manage Toosey Aged and Community Care at Longford, and has held the role for 17 years. Ms Parr has held several board and community directorships and was seconded for 12 months as co-ordinator of the community recovery at Port Arthur after the tragic events of 1996.
At today’s press conference of the official announcement, Ms Parr, said the TCCI board and members recognised the leadership of Launceston based Andrew Heap over the past three years as chair.
“Andrew, with the support of the board, was the leader who navigated the TCCI out of severe financial difficulties and instituted the restructure of the business,” Ms Parr said.
“The appointment of CEO Michael Bailey in December 2012 was the catalyst for the introduction of a new model and a reconnect with our membership and core business.
“I’m delighted to announce that Andrew Heap has agreed to continue as a director of the TCCI.”
Mr Bailey said the business community was fortunate to have two business champions such as Andrew Heap and Susan Parr working together for the betterment of business in Tasmania.
“Andrew’s strategy and business nous supported by his deputy Susan, brought the organisation back from the brink and have been a tremendous support to me as CEO.
“The restructure in the business has been so successful that yesterday our finance committee confirmed a five-figure profit for 2013-14.
“This is massive turnaround from the past two years and is a credit to the board and the staff who have belief in the new model and worked through the dark days.”
The final figures will be released at the TCCI AGM in August.