Queensland Resources Council chief executive Michael Roche has announced he plans to step down later this year after more than 11 years leading the industry lobby.
Roche announced the news last week, saying now was the right time to move to the next stage of his career.
“It has been a great honour to be able to serve the great Queensland resources sector over such an extended period at the hem of its peak body,” he said on July 4.
“The sector comprises wonderful people and hundreds of great business – large, medium and small – which deliver so much employment and wealth for our state.”
The QRC has already begun the process of recruiting Roche’s successor.
“Michael is leaving big shoes to fill,” president Stewart Butel said.
“Michael’s skills and commitment as an advocate for the Queensland resources sector and as a leader of a great Queensland organisation are second to none.”
Roche joined the QRC as its chief executive in July 2005, after a career in the government and private sector.
He plans to continue his non-executive board work, and to continue consulting in the sector.
“I am also keen to do more to assist the state’s charities and not-for-profit sector,” he said.
“There is however no hiding the fact that the QRC Chief Executive role is a very demanding seven days a week commitment. I certainly look forward to also having more time with family and friends.”