New chief executive for CSIRO

Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, has appointed Megan Clark as the new chief executive of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Orginsation (CSIRO).

Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, has appointed Megan Clark as the new chief executive of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Orginsation (CSIRO).

Clark, who is currently the vice-president of health, safety, environment, community and sustainability at BHP Billiton, will start a five year term in January 2009.

She will succeed Geoff Garrett, who ends his term as chief executive on 31 December this year.

“The Government is very pleased that Dr Clark has agreed to lead the CSIRO,” Carr said in a statement.

“Her vast leadership experience in the development and application of science and technology in a business environment will be an invaluable asset for the CSIRO and for the nation.

“Dr Clark understands the work of CSIRO and appreciates the unique challenges the organisation faces. Her experience will also be critical to the central role the CSIRO will play in helping to revitalise Australia’s national innovation system,” he says.

Senator Carr will address the National Press Club in Canberra today and is expected to focus on the report from CSIRO board member Terry Cutler, which examines ways to improve Australia’s innovation policy framework.

SmartCompany will bring you a full report of the speech in tomorrow’s briefing.

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• Solving Australia’s innovation crisis