The Advanced Fibre Cluster Geelong, an initiative led by a group of highly innovative Geelong companies, has today announced the appointment of its CEO.
Leading advanced manufacturing advocate and strategic communications specialist, Jennifer Conley, has been appointed to head the fast growing cluster.
Supported by commitments from Deakin University, the City of Greater Geelong, the Geelong Manufacturing Council, and with funding support from the Victorian Government, the appointment is set to accelerate the growth of Geelong as a global centre of excellence for advanced fibre and composites innovation.
AFCG Board members, Deakin’s Carbon Nexus Director Derek Buckmaster, Jeff Lawrence of Jeff Sykes & Associates, Carl de Koning of Quickstep, Lyn George of Austeng, and Geelong Manufacturing Council CEO, David Peart, warmly welcomed Jennifer to the role this week.
“Jennifer’s credentials as a leader in the field of industry and research collaboration, and her work boosting innovation and Australian success in advanced manufacturing, are well known,” Mr Buckmaster said. “We are very excited to welcome Jen to this new role.”
Geelong Manufacturing Council CEO, David Peart, said the AFCG had entered a new phase with the appointment. “The members of the group are dynamic companies and Jennifer’s appointment as a senior leader in this field will help accelerate their efforts to become world leaders,” he said.
“Geelong has all the hallmarks for success in cutting edge fibre production and a rich history of success in manufacturing. The opportunities are enormous,” Mr Peart said.
Ms Conley will support cluster members in generating new opportunities and investment for their businesses and for Geelong.
Internationally, clusters have been shown to be highly successful in facilitating the commercialisation of new technologies, and generating new revenues for companies closely located in regions.
Jennifer comes to the Advanced Fibre Cluster following two decades working at the intersection of industry, research and government. From 2011 until 2017, she was chief strategy designer, then inaugural Executive Director for the Australian Advanced Manufacturing Council, Australia’s first private sector initiative supporting this country’s emerging advanced manufacturing sector.
May 2019