New Era of Leadership
Hunter iF Key Board Appointments and Transition
Hunter iF today announced significant changes to its Board of Directors, marking an exciting transition that will guide the organisation through its next phase of growth and impact within the region's innovation ecosystem. The changes follow the retirement of Chair Alex Brennan and two other dedicated directors, the appointment of Claire Quigley as the new Chair, and the welcoming of three new members.
A New Chapter: Claire Quigley Succeeds Alex Brennan as Chair
We are delighted to announce that Claire Quigley, previously Deputy Chair, has been appointed as the new Chair of the Hunter iF Board, succeeding outgoing Chair Alex Brennan. Claire brings a wealth of experience and a strong vision for tackling the region's pressing challenges.
In her first statement as Chair, Claire Quigley highlighted her focus:
"Stepping into this role is a privilege. We’re at a defining moment—one where meaningful change is both necessary and within reach. Hunter iF has always been about genuine connection across our communities, and those relationships put us in a strong position to make real impact with our partners. Together, we can ensure the Hunter grows as an inclusive, innovative and prosperous region that shapes its own future. I'm very much looking forward to working with a fantastic Board and Exec to help achieve this."
Her leadership is set to reinforce Hunter iF’s commitment to fostering collaboration and accelerating innovation across the Hunter region.
Welcoming Our New Directors
Joining the Board are three highly respected figures from the innovation and business community bringing unique expertise to the table. Linda Apostolidis, Conrad Smith, and Andrea Hoymann shared their enthusiasm and commitment to the community:
“I’ve been connecting great talent with business in the Hunter region for over 15 years now, and I’m passionate about our region’s future. The Hunter region is full of smart, creative, and ambitious people, doing amazing things. Through my work, I’ve seen first-hand how much potential we have here — and how important it is that we continue to invest in the people, ideas, and industries shaping our future. I’m looking forward to contributing to the mission of supporting innovation, fostering connections, and helping our region thrive on both a local and global scale”. - Linda Apostolidis
"From assembling bicycles to designing 100+ ton machines, I've worked in the Hunter manufacturing industry for over 30 years. After attending my first Hunter Innovation Festival in 2023, the energy of the event moved me to want to ensure the Hunter continues to generate engineers and innovators into the future. I started as a member of the Hunter IF Advanced Manufacturing Action Group, then co-led the group through 2025, and now I'm excited to step up to a position on the Board." - Conrad Smith
"The parallels between the Hunter Region and Germany's Ruhr Valley, where I grew up, drew me to this work – both regions transforming from industrial powerhouses into innovation hubs. I've spent my career helping businesses develop go-to-market strategies and scale early-stage innovation, and I'm excited to bring that perspective to Hunter iF with a board that's genuinely committed to driving meaningful change in the region." - Andrea Hoymann
A Heartfelt Thank You to Retiring Members
Hunter iF extends its deepest gratitude to the outgoing directors. We specifically thank Alex Brennan for his dedicated service as Chair, alongside retiring Directors Edwin Higginson and Skandha Ponniah. Their foundational leadership has been instrumental in shaping the organisation's success over the years.
Skandha Ponniah on his tenure:
“The Hunter is home to incredible, resilient people who are the core of its success. Over the last 3 years, I have been humbled by the trust from the innovation community and the support received from all levels, from government to grassroots organisations, as Hunter iF connects and supports them to take the region to the world. I am excited to see Hunter iF grow, expand its connections, and build on its flagship event, the Hunter Innovation Festival, to bring even more interest to our region “.
Looking Ahead
Zara Crichton, CEO of Hunter iF, commented on the transitions:
“Successfully producing nationally recognised programs, such as the Hunter Innovation Festival, now in its 23rd year, is only possible due to the dedication and vision of our Hunter iF Board, leaders who are attracted to the give, not the get. Their work is instrumental in building a comprehensive, cohesive, and connected regional innovation ecosystem to accelerate innovative ideas to successful outcomes. We are incredibly thankful to Alex for his outstanding leadership as Chair, and to Edwin and Skandha for laying such a solid foundation. As we welcome Linda, Conrad, and Andrea, and see Claire step into the Chair role, we are energised and ready to amplify our support for the region’s innovators and entrepreneurs. Hunter iF is well-equipped to drive the strategic direction necessary to help unlock, with its many partners, the Hunter’s full potential, ensuring it is internationally acknowledged as a thriving centre of innovation.”
The Board also wishes to acknowledge the incredible dedication and expertise of its continuing members. Nathaniel Bavinton (Deputy Chair), Cameron Burns (Treasurer), Sheron Steward (new Company Office Holder), Bret Barton, Jennie McGhie, Will Rifkin, Caroline Booth, and Lauren Eade all continue to serve and contribute their amazing skills and commitment, ensuring Hunter iF’s ongoing success and strategic vision.
Hunter iF looks forward to a successful future under the guidance of its renewed Board, continuing its mission to connect, support, and promote innovation within the Hunter region.
