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A former NSW executive director of the Property Council of Australia joins after holding several senior advisory roles to federal government ministers.
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COSBOA appoints experienced adviser as next CEO
19 May 2023
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COSBOA has appointed Luke Achterstraat as CEO after the board was impressed by his “wealth of leadership experience” and vision for the organisation.
Chair of COSBOA Matthew Addison said the board picked Mr Achterstraat, a former NSW executive director of the Property Council of Australia, after a rigorous selection process.
“Luke will bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table which will benefit our members, partners, and industry stakeholders, as well as help to achieve COSBOA’s goals,” said Mr Addison.
“We are excited to have him on board and believe that he will be a valuable addition to lead our team.”
COSBOA said Mr Achterstraat brings expertise from his work as a consultant for Smith Street Advisory as well as experience in senior advisory roles for federal government ministers for trade, investment, tourism, and international education.
Mr Achterstraat said his personal history with small businesses and his professional experience meant he is well suited to the role.
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“Starting my career with a federal employer group and then in federal government has given me hands-on experience in understanding policy development and working with a broad scope of stakeholders,” said Mr Achterstraat.
“More recently, running a state division of a large industry body has allowed me to work closely with a member community to represent and deliver to their concerns. I will bring all this experience to COSBOA.”
“From a personal perspective, my grandparents came to Australia in the 1950s and started their own small business to create a livelihood for our family; I know first-hand the joys and challenges of running a small business.”
He said the role will involve ensuring small business have an environment in which they can thrive.
“I see the opportunity to lead COSBOA as an honour and responsibility,” Mr Achterstraat said.
“The combined small businesses represented by COSBOA’s members have the potential to be a key part of the solution to drive growth, productivity and prosperity for the Australian economy.”
“I aspire to make sure small business is front and centre of every policy discussion at a time when they have never been more important.”
COSBOA said Mr Achterstraat will commence the role on 30 May with a primary focus of connecting with its members and understanding their priorities and needs.
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