Eminent South Australian business leader Nikki Govan has been appointed as the inaugural chairperson of the Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) for the next three years.
AEDA has been established by the City of Adelaide as a subsidiary to focus on growing a strong economy for Adelaide. Ms Govan, along with Board Members, will set the strategic direction for delivering a range of initiatives to improve economic outcomes and a new growth agenda for the City of Adelaide.
Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor said the City of Adelaide was looking for an exceptional leader who would drive a fresh approach to supporting key elements of the City of Adelaide's 2020-2024 Strategic Plan.
"In Nikki Govan we have someone who is passionate about Adelaide, connected across state, national and international stages, and has significant leadership experience," said the Lord Mayor.
"The City of Adelaide received a strong field of applications for this important role and Nikki was the standout candidate due to her skill set and breadth of experience.
"Since winning this role, Nikki has also been appointed as chair of the Premier's Events Advisory Group and I believe these roles are entirely complementary.
"I will also serve on the board with Nikki and we're really looking forward to getting started as there's a great deal of work to be done in the months and years ahead."
Ms Govan said that she was attracted to the role because it would allow her to use her extensive experience and networks to help the City of Adelaide achieve its goal to grow the economy.
"I look forward to bringing a strategic and collaborative approach to the role to ensure AEDA hits the ground running in this challenging but exciting time for Adelaide," said Ms Govan.
"To chair an agency designed to boost the city's economy is a tremendous honour at any time but to get the opportunity to lead this subsidiary from the very start is even better.
"I'm certain my skills and experience will help to ensure AEDA delivers genuine results for the city."
AEDA will work closely with business groups, state government agencies and other relevant bodies to deliver a range of programs designed to stimulate our economic recovery.
General Board positions are expected to be announced in December with AEDA operational by mid-January.
Funding raised through the Rundle Mall special levy will continue to be used solely to promote and position Rundle Mall as the State's premier retail and commercial shopping precinct.
The Agency will focus on investment attraction, growing the visitor economy, residential growth, marketing the city as a whole and supporting Adelaide's premier shopping destination the Rundle Mall.
