Rural Alive and Well (RAW) is proud to announce the appointment of incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Lee Whiteley.

A Tasmanian-born and raised North West Coaster, Mr Whiteley has had a diverse career working in and driving success in high-level industry organisations.

Lee began his career as an Automotive Electrician working with small businesses in the North West before joining the Elphinstone Group where he worked his way up to hold an Executive position. Lee also held a global role as Vice President with Danish company Vestas Wind Systems and most recently was a senior executive with UTAS.

Lee’s passion for building thriving rural communities stems from growing up on the North West in Highclere, where his family ran the local general store and Post Office. His Grandparents owned a livestock and cropping operation at Kindred where he spent many holidays and weekends.

Mr Whiteley shared, “From a young age I learned in depth the breadth and scope of what makes up rural communities. From the local butcher, truck driver, farmer and fencing contractor, I know first-hand how important each of those roles are to ensuring a thriving rural community.”

“Some of my favourite memories were spent on the farm with my grandparents and I have a deep-found respect and understanding for the hard work and resilience that local producers have.”

“I also recognise and understand the impact of situational pressures and unique industry complexities which so often lead to people experiencing situational and early distress.”

“For industries and communities to thrive, we have to ensure that the people operating within those supply chains and communities are first healthy and well. That’s the unique role RAW plays.

“It’s become clear how important RAW is to building sustainable rural communities and I’m looking forward to taking on a role working with a great team of people who make a very real difference every day.”

“RAW is an organisation in my mind that has great purpose, provides tangible change and practical outcomes for those it supports.”

President Tom Windsor added, “On behalf of the Board and staff, I want to share how incredibly fortunate we feel to be welcoming Lee to the position of Chief Executive Officer.

"We received over 50 high-level applications from across Australia for this role, which showcases just how highly RAW is viewed not just locally, but nationally. "

"Lee has extensive experience leading change across a variety of high-calibre organisations and industries. Aside from his experience, Lee was also the candidate we felt best represented the essence and values RAW stands for. Having Lee as our incoming CEO we feel sets us up strongly to take another step forward and better serve and support rural communities across Tasmania”.

Mr Whiteley will officially commence as CEO of Rural Alive & Well in the middle of June 2024.

Mr Whiteley’s full biography can be found at www.ruralaliveandwell.com.au/leewhiteley