AWI CEO John Roberts at the 2024 annual general meeting.

AUSTRALIAN Wool Innovation chief executive officer John Roberts has notified the board of his intention to stand down from the role after the levy body’s November annual general meeting.

An AWI statement said Mr Roberts will work to ensure a smooth transition with his replacement.

Mr Roberts formally took up the role in March 2022, replacing controversial former CEO Stuart McCullough, who left the position to be ‘seconded’ to an international role in 2021, before being made redundant last year. Mr Roberts’ departure also follows the recent early resignation of AWI board member Emma Weston in June this year, without explanation.

AWI chairman Jock Laurie thanked Mr Roberts for his outstanding service and leadership.

“John has done a tremendous job during challenging times for the industry,” Mr Laurie said.

“His decision comes after an extended period of consideration and reaching the conclusion for personal reasons.

“During this time John has worked tirelessly to deliver better outcomes for wool growers and foster a collaborative working environment across the industry and with all stakeholder groups.

“He will be greatly missed, and we wish him every success in the future,” Mr Laurie said.

Mr Roberts said it been an honour to work for Australian wool growers.

“I have spent more than 35 years working in the wool industry and my time as AWI‘s CEO has been a true privilege,” he said.

“While it has been an extremely tough decision, the time is right for me personally, but more importantly for the industry.

“It is critical that we create pathways so that the next generation can take on the challenges and leverage the opportunities that exist for Australian wool,” he said.

“I remain optimistic about the prospects for Australian wool growers in the medium and long term. Australia has the best wool in the world and as consumers ditch fast fashion, natural fibres like wool are increasingly in favour.”

Mr Roberts joined AWI in 2016 and moved into the role of CEO in October 2021. Mr Laurie said Mr Roberts would leave AWI having strengthened the company’s focus on delivering value to woolgrowers and guiding the organisation with stability and clear direction.

“He has fostered a culture of collaboration, integrity, and innovation, while building strong relationships with stakeholders across the wool supply chain,” he said.

“We are just embarking on a new strategic plan with strong structural foundations and a dedicated team of professionals committed to working for wool growers.”

AWQI’s 2025 annual general meeting will be held in Sydney on 14 November.

Source – AWI.