AIHS Appoints New CEO Julia Whitford

Original article published by AIHS

The Australian Institute of Health & Safety (AIHS) is delighted to announce that Julia Whitford has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer. A highly experienced senior leader, Julia succeeds David Clarke who has recently left the Institute after 8 years of service. Julia will assume her new responsibilities on 5 September 2022.

The AIHS is the peak body for the Health and Safety Profession with thousands of members and strategic partners who share our vision of safe and healthy workers in productive workplaces and communities. Everything we do is about shaping workplace health and safety, including developing and certifying the skills and capabilities of those who apply WHS practice to ensure a credible and effective WHS workforce.

Julia brings to the AIHS extraordinary experience as a dynamic and respected senior leader, most recently as Chief Operating Officer of the Australian HR Institute (AHRI), the professional body that supports HR in Australia. With over 20 years in member-based organisations, Julia has proven success in every functional area of a professional association, including certification, sponsorship, and membership.

Her experience and achievements with AHRI, in senior management and leadership roles over several years, are also a testament to her considered approach that empowers individuals through a focus on quality outputs, and delivering a positive culture underpinned by trust and accountability.

Julia is an influential and decisive leader who has achieved exceptional growth and financial successes, strong and robust relationships with government and corporate sectors, and a high level of personal commitment, professionalism, and integrity.

AIHS Chair, Naomi Kemp said “The Institute is delighted to have attracted someone as talented as Julia, to continue our strong tradition of service to the profession and to build upon the outstanding work that is delivered by our staff and members every day. We are confident that in Julia we have found someone who will lead the organisation with innovation, humanity and integrity”.

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