Retiring SPA chair Chris Mirams at the launch of the Sheep Sustainability Framework.

AUSTRALIA’S peak national sheep producer body has started a search for a new independent chairman and two board directors.

Sheep Producers Australia today said it is seeking to appoint an independent chair at its annual general meeting in November 2021, following the expiration of the term of the inaugural chairman Chris Mirams.

Mr Mirams said the position of independent chair is a challenging and rewarding senior national leadership role. He is not eligible to re-stand for the position.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time contributing to the sheep industry as the chair of SPA and would strongly encourage suitably experienced and qualified individuals, who are passionate about the red meat industry and want to make a difference, to apply for this position,” Mr Mirams said.

SPA is governed by a skills-based board, comprised of a minimum of four and maximum of seven member-elected board directors and up to two board-appointed independent directors.

SPA is also currently recruiting for two board director positions with the retirement of directors Ian McColl and Elizabeth Jackson, who are eligible to re-nominate. The directors will work with the new policy council and be in a position to advocate for the sheep meat sector, while providing the governance oversight required for the organisation to perform an essential role, the SPA said.

SPA chief executive officer Stephen Crisp said directors play a vital role in ensuring the organisation is professional and efficient, capable of retaining the trust of all stakeholders in providing the best advice on both policy matters and the direction of levy expenditure.

Applications close 11.59pm Sunday 22 August 2021 AEST.

Details on how to apply for the role of independent chair are here and for the director positions are here.