South Australia’s Weekly Executive Appointments Guide: Corporate Ladder

In South Australia, several notable executive appointments have recently been made across various sectors. These changes highlight the ongoing evolution within organizations aiming to enhance their operational capabilities and leadership structures.

Executive Appointments at Iondrive

Iondrive, a company specializing in sustainable energy storage, has announced the promotion of Lewis Utting to Chief Executive Officer. Utting, who previously served as the commercial director since November 2024, replaces Dr. Ebbe Dommisse. He has an extensive background, having held leadership roles at Synrado, SciDev, and BASF.

Furthermore, Dr. Duncan Turner has been appointed as a non-executive director. His expertise in extractive metallurgy and process commercialization is expected to enhance the company’s technical capabilities. According to Iondrive’s chair, Michael McNeilly, this leadership transition is set to position the company for growth in sectors including battery recycling, e-waste, and solar infrastructure.

SA Business Chamber Expands Workplace Relations Team

The SA Business Chamber has bolstered its workplace relations team with the addition of Sophie Katsaros and Andrew Tulic as senior consultants. Both bring extensive experience in workplace relations, work health and safety, and industrial relations.

• Andrew Tulic previously worked at the Australian Industry Group as a senior advisor.
• Sophie Katsaros comes from Charlton Rowley, where she was a senior associate.

Their expertise will support the chamber in offering tailored advice to businesses, assisting them in managing workplace challenges effectively.

Leadership Opportunities in Education and Local Government

Several key positions are available in educational and local government institutions:

• Principal at Encounter Lutheran College: Located in Victor Harbor, this role oversees a school with over 700 students.
• Divisional Head of Business Development for the City of Salisbury: The role focuses on strategic growth of Salisbury Water and new commercial ventures.
• Head of Early Years at Seymour College: This independent school provides an exceptional learning environment for students.
• Workforce Planning & Business Partnership Manager for Resthaven: This position leads workforce planning and adapts to changes in workforce dynamics.
• Payroll Manager at Australian Naval Infrastructure: Responsible for managing end-to-end payroll operations with flexible employment options.

Consultancy Growth in South Australia

Professional consultancy Struber has appointed Sarah Fitzharris as an associate director. With 20 years of experience in government and health sectors, Fitzharris previously directed the launch of End Food Waste Australia’s strategic business plan.

Her background includes a chief marketing officer position at MS Society SA & NT, as well as various communications roles in public institutions. Fitzharris expressed excitement about contributing to the consultancy’s growth in infrastructure and energy sectors.

Legal Sector Appointment

In the legal arena, Seva Surmei has become a partner at Lynch Meyer Lawyers within the transactions team. Surmei, a recognized franchise lawyer, previously served as a principal at DMAW Lawyers and has been included in the Best Lawyers in Australia list since 2021.

Her appointment reflects the firm’s commitment to growth and adaptability in meeting client needs, bringing the total number of partners at Lynch Meyer to 11.