GM welcomes Economic Development Manager
Wingecarribee Shire Council General Manager Ann Prendergast has this week welcomed the arrival of Council’s new Economic Development Manager Noel Ferguson.
“We’re very excited to have Noel join us at Council,” Ms Prendergast said.
“He brings an enormous wealth of experience to the role and we’re confident he’ll be a great asset to our local and surrounding business communities.
“I have no doubt he’ll hit the ground running!”
Originally from New Zealand, Mr Ferguson has over 20 years of experience in the private sector running his own technology businesses before turning his attention to Economic Development.
Most recently he worked with the MidWest Development Commission in Western Australia.
“My immediate goal is to visit businesses across the Shire and work with them in providing greater trade opportunities,” Mr Ferguson said.
“As part of the economic development process, I want to develop strategies for people who are passionate about starting a business here in the Highlands.
“On the other side of the coin, I want to help existing businesses maximise their return on investment and develop strategies that will attract businesses that are a good fit for the Shire,” he said.
“And while sustainable jobs are the measure of long-term success, we have to consider other factors including environmental, social, cultural and governance issues.”
Having decided on a ‘tree-change’ from his previous role in Geraldton, Noel says he’s already smitten with the area.
“Apart from the commercial potential that this region has to offer, the abundant natural beauty of the area is a refreshing change of scenery,” he said.
“I look forward to exploring the many possibilities the Wingecarribee Shire has to offer.”