FCAI gets new chief

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries has a new chief executive, Ian Chalmers, who gave up his position of chief executive of Medicines Australia to take on the role.

Instead of representing pharmaceutical companies, Chalmers will now represent car makers and the automotive industry, and will work closely with the government to ensure a strong relationship between the two.

Chalmers comes into the spot left vacant by Andrew McKellar, who took a job with the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), and said he was keen to improve the FCAI's links with government. "I am particularly looking forward to continuing the chamber’s constructive relationship with government," stated Chalmers.

"With many challenges facing the automotive sector in this country it is important we continue to work with our members and government, ensuring the sector remains viable and the manufacturing base robust."

According to the FCAI, Mr Chalmers was selected from a "competitive field of candidates" after a rigorous search by an executive recruitment firm, Amrop Cordiner King.

Mr Chalmers was eventually chosen for his "strong background in both corporate and government roles."

As well as being former chief executive of Medicines Australia, Ian Chalmers has also held position as chief executives for the Australian Private Hospitals Association and Australian Local Government Association. He has also served on the board of an ASX-listed bio-tech company and the ACT Asthma Foundation.

According to the FCAI, Mr Chalmers was "delighted" to have landed the new role.

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