John Atkin elected Chair of the Australian Institute of Company Directors

Mr Atkin will succeed Elizabeth Proust AO FAICD as Chair following the AICD’s Annual General Meeting on 29 November 2018.

Mr Atkin has almost three decades of leadership experience working in both executive and non-executive roles across ASX 100 businesses, small to medium size caps, and the NFP sector. He has been a member of the AICD since 1990.

John is currently a non-executive director of IPH Ltd, Integral Diagnostics Ltd and Commonwealth Bank Officers Superannuation Corporation. He is also Chair of Outward Bound Australia and is completing a five year term on the State Library of NSW Foundation Board next month.

Prior to his non-executive director career, John was CEO of The Trust Company, successfully steering the organisation through the GFC. Prior to this he spent six years as National Managing Partner of Blake Dawson (now Ashurst) and 15 years as Partner at Mallesons Stephen Jaques (now King & Wood Mallesons).

Mr Atkin was elected to the role of Chair following an extensive search process undertaken by the AICD Board.

Mr Atkin said he was humbled to the elected by the AICD Board as Chair.

“Since I became a full-time non-executive director, I have looked to the Institute as my professional college, an organisation that sought to educate and encourage the practice of good governance and bring together the director community,” he said.

“I have substantial admiration for what the AICD has achieved over the time I have been a member, particularly over the last decade. I strongly believe in the value of good governance and am excited to be taking on this role at such an important time.”

“Elizabeth Proust has done an outstanding job as Chair over the last three years. Following in her footsteps is a daunting task but I am looking forward to working with my board colleagues, and most importantly with Managing Director & CEO Angus Armour and his executive team, in helping directors to navigate the challenging times ahead.”

AICD Managing Director & CEO Angus Armour welcomed Mr Atkin’s appointment, noting his extensive and varied experience would be a great asset to the Institute as it seeks to improve the governance capability of leaders for the benefit of society.

Ms Proust congratulated Mr Atkin on his appointment and wished him well in the role.

“Promoting good governance has never been more important than it is now and I am confident John will do an excellent job as Chair of the AICD,” said Ms Proust.

“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair over a time when governance has been at the forefront of many community discussions. I am proud of the role the AICD has played in educating directors, highlighting governance issues and advocating for policies that will help the economy and society.”