The Women in Gaming & Hospitality Australasia (WGHA) has named Mary Collier, who has a number of key racing and wagering posts under her belt, as its new CEO. Collier has an extensive background in law, media and sports administration, WGHA said, and brings strong advocacy, a commercial mindset, and strategic acumen to the role.
Collier has held several executive roles in the racing and wagering industries over the last 20 years, including former Director and Chairman of the Brisbane Turf Club and former President of the Queensland Jockeys’ Association.
Collier has also led media and communications for the national industry association for online wagering companies, and spent four years as a member of the executive leadership team at Racing Queensland where her responsibilities included corporate affairs and policy, government relations, marketing and communications and corporate strategy.
In the new post, Collier said she aims to grow the organisation and work collaboratively with partners, businesses, and governments to achieve gender equity and an inclusive industry.
“I have long believed a strong industry association can play a crucial role in advocating for meaningful policy change, as well as supporting its members to innovate and drive improved practices.
“The industries we represent include some of the most vibrant businesses in the country, already committed to creating greater opportunities for women from grass roots right through to executive management and directorships.”
Her appointment follows the departure of founding CEO, Helen Galloway, who left the post earlier this year to focus on other commitments.
WGHA Chair Christie Roser said of Collier’s appointment, “I would like to welcome and congratulate Mary Collier on her appointment as CEO of Women in Gaming and Hospitality Australasia.
“Mary is a proven business leader which coupled with a passion for inspiring teams and her strong presence across the industry, we look forward to seeing WGHA thrive under her leadership.
“The board were delighted with the quality of individuals who engaged in the process and to be able to appoint someone of Mary’s calibre is a credit to the work WGHA has done under Helen’s leadership to establish itself as a reputable driver of change across our industries.”
Collier said it was a combination of her lived experiences and belief in the power of a focused industry association that made the role irresistible.
“There is a wonderful opportunity now to build on the strong foundation created by the WGHA Board and team and strive for increased gender diversity and inclusion for the commercial benefit of everyone.”
Collier is also a member of Women on Boards and of the AICD and will soon commence an appointment as a Director of the Tattersall’s Club of Queensland.
This story was first published on the Australian Hotelier website.