A new team will drive the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development's (DPIRD's) research and development program to help Western Australia's valuable agriculture and aquaculture industries grow and thrive.
The three Executive Director positions for Broadacre Systems, Animal Systems and Intensive and Irrigated Plant Systems will ensure DPIRD's work aligns with rapid advances in science and dynamic global markets to best support industry.
DPIRD Primary Industries Development Deputy Director General Cec McConnell said the new positions would unlock and guide initiatives that assist the State's diverse primary industries to remain internationally competitive.
"Agricultural science is advancing at such a rapid pace around the world, while markets have become increasingly complex and discerning," Ms McConnell said.
"These new executive appointments will ensure DPIRD is in a strong position to integrate new science and pivot to market requirements, while ensuring our R&D program is relevant, targeted and delivers meaningful results to industry.
"Working alongside interdisciplinary teams from across the department, our passionate and skilled staff are dedicated to keeping WA's primary industries profitable, sustainable and resilient."
Broadacre Systems Executive Director Dr Kaara Klepper will lead the department's farming systems strategy, drawing on an extensive career in agronomy, soil science and environmental sustainability in the public and private sectors.
Animal Systems Executive Director Julia Smith will progress strategic research and development across the livestock and aquaculture industries, building on her long career with the department.
Intensive and Irrigated Plant Systems Executive Director Sam Oakden will oversee priorities for the fruit, vegetable and irrigated agriculture industries, after a career leading national initiatives in the agriculture and food sector.
"Our new leadership team is getting their feet on the ground and meeting staff and industry stakeholders," Ms McConnell said.
"They will be working with our highly capable teams across the State to help future-proof WA's $10 billion primary industries and capture the benefits of next generation science and innovation."
For more information on DPIRD's primary industries research visit dpird.wa.gov.au and click on the 'science and research' tab.
