After more than 20 years as Austral Fisheries’ Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary, we bid a fond farewell to Greg Johnston as he enters his well-earned retirement.
Greg occupied an incredibly important seat with Austral through countless highs and lows, and he travelled to many corners of the globe during his time. Through it all, his unparalleled professionalism, efficiency, work ethic and humility led to him being held in the highest regard by his colleagues and peers.
“Diligent, committed, professional, focused, courageous, reliable, dependable, honest, hardworking, tenacious, level-headed, steady, accurate, constant, methodical, frugal, unflappable, humble, helpful, always ‘do the right thing,’ – but also an obviously loving husband and grandparent, who just loves being a pop,” said Austral CEO David Carter at Greg’s retirement drinks.
Murray France, David’s predecessor, also had this to say of Greg: “Throughout his several decades he was always dedicated to the task with ethics and principles above reproach. I appreciated his efforts and wish him well in retirement.”
It was indeed well over 20 years that Greg worked for Austral, when accounting for his time at its predecessors including Kailis & France. In truth, Greg accumulated approximately 35 years in the seafood industry.
“On a personal front Greg, I can only offer my incredible and sincere thanks for the partnership that we have had. We are very different people, but it is that difference that has made us, to my mind, such a terrific partnership. You are the yin to my yang. You have been the safe pair of hands; the setter and keeper of standards. Those board meetings where your impeccable preparation has left every question anticipated and ultimately answered has built the confidence the board have needed for us to enjoy the results that we have over these 21 years. Your work ethic is without comparison, and I/we will miss your constant and steady hand,” said David.
It’s safe to say there are many mixed emotions as we farewell Greg into retirement. On one hand we are sad to see him go, and there is no doubt that he will be missed; on the other, you would be hard-pressed finding an individual more deserving of some ‘time off’ and rest than Greg; and so, we’re excited for his next chapter as he gets to spend more time with his family and perhaps more time on the golf course!
To this point you might be wondering who is replacing Greg; Austral Fisheries is pleased to announce the appointment of Stuart Nisbet as its new Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary.
Stuart has experience in the UK’s car retail and semiconductor equipment sectors, and in 2008 his move to Australia saw him enter the natural resources services industry. Stuart brings four years’ experience in the wild-caught fishing industry to his new role with Austral, having spent this time as CFO with Fremantle Octopus prior to his appointment.
“I look forward to seeing Stuart apply his unique background and character to this business and have every confidence that he will make a positive contribution to Austral,” said Austral CEO David Carter.
OFFICIAL MEDIA RELEASE
Austral Fisheries Farewell Long-serving CFO, Announce New Appointment
Austral Fisheries has announced the appointment of Stuart Nisbet as its new Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary.
Mr Nisbett will replace Greg Johnston who is retiring after serving the company for over 20 years.
Mr Johnston retires as a highly respected CFO within the fishing industry, having helped to navigate Austral through its significant change and growth during his tenure.
“I have been immensely grateful for Greg’s friendship and professionalism during his time with Austral. It has been a partnership that has brought our complementary skills together and taken us on an extraordinary journey. I thank Greg for his service, sacrifice and loyalty and wish him all the very best in his retirement,” said David Carter, Austral Fisheries CEO.
Mr Nisbett has experience in the UK’s car retail and semiconductor equipment sectors and in 2008 his move to Australia saw him enter the natural resources services industry. Mr Nisbett brings four years’ experience in the wild-caught fishing industry to his new role with Austral, having spent this time as CFO with Fremantle Octopus prior to his appointment.
“I look forward to seeing Stuart apply his unique background and character to this business and have every confidence that he will make a positive contribution to Austral,” said Mr Carter.
Mr Nisbett officially replaces Mr Johnston on 30 September.
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For more information, contact:
Sam Pullman
Media & Communications Officer, Austral Fisheries
spullman@australfisheries.com.au