The year has certainly finished on a high note. The second National Congress, held in the Hunter Valley in late November, was a resounding success on both a continuing professional development and social level. My thanks go to our members, presenters, sponsors, exhibitors and IPA staff, who all contributed to making the event such a memorable one.
I am confident that the National Congress will continue to grow from strength to strength, and I look forward to its return to the Gold Coast from 12 to 14 November 2015, at another amazing venue.
The 2014 National Congress also provided us with another celebration. It was with great pleasure that I, along with my fellow IPA board members, presented a special gift to IPA chief executive officer Andrew Conway, in recognition of being awarded the 2014 Australian Financial Review Boss Magazine Young Executive of the Year. This is indeed an achievement of which Andrew and the entire organisation can be very proud.
I am advised there were a massive number of nominations for this prestigious award, and the calibre of judges included the chairs of Opera Australia and eBay, the former CEO of Time Warner and the CEOs of Saatchi & Saatchi and St.George Bank. The judges noted that they were astounded with Andrew’s career achievements to date, his community involvement and his overall professionalism. The process to receive this award included references, psychometric testing and a full-scale leadership simulation.
The year ahead promises to be another big year for the IPA, as we continue to drive added value for our members and work in their best interests through our member communications, advocacy activities and partner offerings.
As this is my last report for 2014, I would like to wish all our members and readers a very safe and joyous festive season. I look forward to working with you all in the new year ahead.
