The Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) has named a new board of directors following last week’s mass resignation.
The new directors, who have been appointed under the casual vacancies’ requirements of PIAA’s constitution, include Karen DeBruin of North Shore Pet Resorts, who has served on the board previously, and will be the interim Boarding Director.
The new Grooming Director is Jo Marsden of Get Grooming; Retail Director (interim) is Shane Spruce, Pet Quarters; Distribution & Manufacturing Director is Graeme Faulkner, AquaDepot Imports; Breeding Director is Paul Frith, Happy Canines. National Director’s are Paul Talbot, Majestic Aquariums and Sandra King, King Insurance Brokers (interim), and one national position remains vacant. Anthony Ramsey of Crystal Palace Aquarium continues as Aquatics Director.
Explaining the reasons behind these appointments, Ramsey told Pet Industry News: “Sandra King has a background in the finance and insurance sector, which will be very useful as we embark on a comprehensive review of the associations financial position.
“Shane Spruce is a qualified lawyer and runs a large chain of pet and aquarium stores. His knowledge will be able to assist with our governance and administrative review. “
“Paul Talbot has experience in marketing, communications, and promotions, with a focus on social media channels.
“The other new directors all have a passion and vast experience within their sectors. I’m very confident they will bring a renewed vigour and energy to PIAA’s operations and reignite member driven agendas and outcomes for their specific sectors.”
In line with the normal rotation of directors, the positions of two National Directors, as well as the Retail and Boarding positions will be available for nominations through the normal democratic process prior to PIAA’s upcoming Annual General Meeting.
Ramsey accepts that recent events would have caused a level of concern and apprehension for PIAA members and hopes that the new board appointments will provide some assurance.
“The incoming board as a priority will be reviewing all aspects of the associations current operations to address the previously raised concerns around governance, administration, and financial management. We will also be commencing a sector based membership consultation to ensure you the members have input into the direction and focus of the PIAA and your sector into the future.
“I thank the incoming directors for stepping into the breech and I know the passion, skills and experience they will bring to the board will be a huge asset to the PIAA as a whole and the individual sector groups.”
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