CASE STUDY
MTPConnect - Chair
The appointment of the Honourable Jaala Pulford
The Organisation
Formed in December 2015 as part of the Federal Government’s Industry Growth Centres Initiative, MTPConnect is an independent, dynamic, national not-for-profit organisation aiming to accelerate the rate of growth of Australia’s medical technology, biotechnology and pharmaceutical (MTP) sector.
The Growth Centre is forging stronger connections between research and industry to help maximise opportunities for Australians to not only make scientific and technological breakthroughs, but also to see them developed through the proof-of-concept stage and successfully translated and commercialised. The entity is guided by an experienced Board of Directors and managed by a professional executive team.
MTPConnect raises awareness, fosters collaboration and competition, aggregates existing knowledge and shares it with the broader MTP sector. It also jointly funds projects that address the sector growth priorities identified in the sector.
With the establishment of key hubs at the University of Adelaide within BioMed City, the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research in Perth and the Translational Research Institute in Brisbane, this Growth Centre orchestrates operations from its head office in Melbourne.
The Brief
MTPConnect has been operating successfully for seven years with Sue MacLeman as the inaugural CEO, and later as Chair.
With Sue’s retirement from the MTPConnect Board, the entity was looking for a seasoned governance professional whose governance credentials would continue the legacy of successful relationship building, attracting funds and a track record of working effectively with key stakeholders, including government.
The Process
After demonstrating a record of successful relevant past appointments in the sector, Brooker Consulting was engaged to conduct an executive search and selection process to identify MTPConnect’s next Chair.
An extensive strategy was outlined and the campaign was launched by Brooker after a detailed briefing with key stakeholders. A comprehensive combination of external advertising and targeted executive search generated an impressive level of interest and a high-quality shortlist.
The Outcome
After the interview and assessment process concluded, consensus was reached that the Honourable Jaala Pulford would be appointed as the Chair of MTPConnect.
What MTPConnect Said
MTPConnect Board Director, Julie Phillips, stated that the panel was absolutely delighted with the quality of the candidates, as they deliberated over the appointment.
Ultimately, the Honourable Jaala Pulford excelled in her presentation to the selection panel, and offered a compelling combination of enthusiasm, political nous and commitment to the commercialisation sector. This was corroborated during the reference checking process. Her expertise in strategy, governance, and complex stakeholder engagement, particularly politically, will play a vital role in facilitating MTPConnect’s bold vision to improve human health in Australia, by taking action, through their independent voice and strategic approach.
If you are interested in our services, please contact Lesley Lightfoot on 0458 543 485 or lesley@brookerconsulting.com.au.
Brooker Consulting is a prominent Australian talent acquisition and leadership advisory firm specialising in appointing interim and substantive CEOs, Board positions and c-suite executives. Our expertise spans the public and private sectors, with a strong focus on biotechnology, research, and health technology organisations.
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