Ex-tourism chief brings skills to Ballarat leadership group

FORMER Victoria Tourism Industry Council CEO Felicia Mariani has been appointed as the next Committee for Ballarat board chair.

Ms Mariani will take over from George Fong, who has been in the position for more than three years, at the committee’s annual general meeting on 14 October.

Her appointment follows what the committee described as “a comprehensive selection process” led by the board’s Nominations and Appointments Committee.

Ms Mariani was chosen from among a “wide field” of candidates, the committee said.

“Felicia has led the Victoria Tourism Industry Council for seven-and-a-half years, representing over 1100 members in Victoria’s $40 billion visitor economy,” Mr Fong said.

“Her experience and fresh perspective come at a critical time for our region, with Vision 2050 guiding our future.”

Vision 2050 is a project being developed by the committee to establish a vision for what Ballarat and the region should look like in 25 years.

 

Ms Mariani said she is excited by the appointment.

“I’m honoured to follow George and grateful for the opportunity to work alongside him to ensure a smooth transition,” she said.

“This is an exciting time to join a forward-thinking board committed to shaping Ballarat’s future.

“With innovation driving sectors like energy, agribusiness, advanced manufacturing and the visitor economy, Ballarat is well-positioned to lead and I could not think of a better time to be joining such a dynamic and future-focused board.

“It’s not enough to merely manage growth as it happens; we need to have a solid plan for how this region will secure the best growth opportunities for a successful and sustainable future.”

Committee for Ballarat CEO Michael Poulton welcomed Ms Mariani’s appointment.

“Felicia understands Ballarat and the region well, and has built strong relationships across all levels of government,” Mr Poulton said.

“Her leadership will be a great asset to the Committee for Ballarat.”