Search for a CEO underway at AusBiotech

Following the resignation just before Christmas of AusBiotech executive director Tony Coulepis, the industry body will appoint a CEO to replace him.

The AusBiotech board is currently developing search criteria for the position, based on the organisation's new business plan, dubbed 'Globalising Australian Biotechnology'.

AusBiotech chairman Simon Carroll said the growth of the industry would depend on the regulatory and financial operating environment. He said AusBiotech should aim to influence that environment through advocacy and policy development.

"Tony has done an absolute fantastic job," he said. "Running a member organisation, it is very difficult to satisfy everyone's desires -- but we've brought together a relatively diverse industry into a focal point.

"Where I see AusBiotech operating is as a link between industry and government [with a focus on] policy development, strategic thinking advocacy and good communications skills," said Carroll of the qualities the board was looking for in a new CEO.

During Colepis' tenure, AusBiotech's membership grew from 400 to 2600, and from one part-time staff member it now employs 15.

Coulepis, who headed AusBiotech for four years, said an executive with lobbying experience and links with Canberra would be the most valuable CEO candidate. He said he would take some time off before "moving back into industry".

Carroll said the AusBiotech board would meet this week to finalise the details of the role, and hoped to have made an appointment by the end of March.