NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson, has today announced the appointment of Mr Scott Hansen as the new Director General of the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), following an international search.

Ms Hodgkinson said Mr Hansen’s impressive track record as a leader in the agricultural sector stands him in good stead to lead NSW DPI.

“When the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government was elected in 2011, one of the first things the new government did was reinstate the Department of Primary Industries to ensure the NSW primary industries sector received the recognition and support it deserved,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

“I am confident Mr Hansen is the right choice to succeed Mr Richard Sheldrake AM, who stood down in September after a fine tenure as the leader of the DPI.

“With more than 2600 staff located in more than 200 sites across NSW, Mr Hansen will have a big job ahead of him in enabling our agricultural, forestry and fisheries industries to meet the challenges of sustainable production of food and fibre.

“Mr Hansen must ensure DPI continues to be a leader in supporting strong productivity growth in Australian agriculture.

“It is imperative that DPI has a science-based culture and works closely with other private and public sector agencies, like Local Land Services, to ensure the NSW primary industries sector remains profitable and sustainable into the future.”

Mr Hansen is currently the managing director of Meat and Livestock Australia and was previously North America regional manager and general manager corporate communications with MLA, the former executive director of Sheepmeat Council of Australia and principal livestock policy officer with the Victorian Department of Primary Industries.

“Having lived and breathed the agricultural sector my entire personal and professional life, being appointed as Director General of NSW DPI is an honour,” Mr Hansen said.

“While I am sad to leave MLA, where I have worked since 2004, I am eager to take up the challenge of leading this diverse and innovative organisation.”

Mr Michael Bullen will continue in the role of Acting Director General until Mr Hansen starts on 17 March 2014.