Meet our board
Our Board brings together a diverse mix of industry leaders and advocates; each committed to helping drive growth for local businesses and build supply chain strength across the state.
Tim Piper AM, Chair – Head, Victoria, AI Group
Tim leads the Australian Industry Group in Victoria, representing industries across the state. Tim plays a pivotal role on numerous government and industry committees focused on skills, industrial relations, and environmental sustainability. A former barrister, solicitor and journalist with an MBA, Tim has long advocated for industry development and local capability. He was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for his services to manufacturing, skills and community engagement.
Tony Mavromatis – Victorian Branch State Secretary, Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU)
Tony has spent decades supporting manufacturing and construction workers as the State Secretary of the AMWU Victorian Branch. Tony brings extensive experience as an organiser, delegate and workplace safety representative. Tony is committed to championing workers’ rights, improving safety, and strengthening Victoria’s manufacturing sector, building on a long career representing union members across diverse workplaces.
Russell Rolls – Non-Executive Director
Russell brings a wealth of experience from his long career in heavy resource engineering and export-focused manufacturing. A senior engineer and former CEO in the sector, he has contributed to national industry bodies and served as a Fellow of Engineers Australia.
Dr Gillian Sparkes AM FAICD FIPAA – Non-Executive Director
Gillian offers decades of leadership in environmental sustainability, public service, and industry. Having been Victoria’s Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability until 2024, she understands complex stakeholder landscapes across the public and private sectors. Gillian’s extensive board and cross sectoral experience reflect her commitment to sustainable growth and strong governance.
Jenny Kruschel – National Secretary, CFMEU Manufacturing Division
Jenny is the Textiles, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) National Secretary of the Timber, Furnishings & Textiles Union (TFTU). Beginning her career on the factory floor in regional Victoria, she has spent more than 25 years advancing workers’ rights, skills and industry standards. As TCF National Secretary, she contributes to national and international industry committees and supports ethical supply chains, workplace safety and skills development across the manufacturing sector.
Michael Luddeni - Group Executive, Operations and Assessment, Engineers Australia
Michael is a commercially astute engineering executive with more than 25 years’ experience across manufacturing, finance and professional services. Currently the Group Executive Operations & Assessments for Engineers Australia, Michael has led major transformation, operational and governance initiatives to deliver excellent outcomes. His extensive background reflects deep expertise in strategy, quality systems and organisational performance.
Amelia Bitsis - Executive Director, Policy and Advocacy, VCCI
Amelia Bitsis brings extensive leadership experience across federal, state and local government, with a strong background in policy development and strategic advisory roles. In her current role as Executive Director, Policy and Advocacy for the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, she leads complex policy agendas and engages widely across government and industry. Amelia is recognised for her ability to navigate challenging stakeholder environments, build consensus and drive strategic outcomes.