After commencing the search for its new CEO in September 2016, the Spatial Industries Business Association (SIBA) has just been announced that tech evangelist Ms Deanna Hutchinson has assumed the role.

As outlined in an announcement from SIBA, Hutchinson’s primary role as CEO will be implementing a number of new initiatives devised during the recent merger between SIBA and GITA ANZ.

Hutchinson, who has been described as a ‘futurist,’ has a background in promoting the adoption of emerging technologies, experience in publishing and tertiary qualifications in business.

After spending several years in the public sector, Hutchinson was involved in private enterprise where she led software development and worked extensively with industry associations supporting technology-driven change. She was also previously a congress executive of the Australian Simulation Congress and editor of the simulation-focussed magazine, Simpublica.

I am looking forward to completing the transition of SIBA to a unified national member organisation as we enter a most exciting time for spatial businesses.” – Deanna Hutchinson

More recently, Hutchinson has worked as both a consultant to industry and an industry advocate. Her focus was developing sector-wide governance infrastructure and knowledge about emerging applications such as virtual reality, simulation and BIM.

In announcing the appointment, SIBA Chair Alistair Byrom, commented that “Ms Hutchinson brings a wealth of experience to SIBA at this important stage of our development and, given her credentials, I am confident she will make a significant contribution to the role.”

“Ms Hutchinson’s primary role will be to implement a number of key recommendations made by Board following the recent merge with GITA ANZ,” Byrom explained.

In accepting the role of CEO, Hutchinson said it is an exciting time to be involved in spatial business: “I am looking forward to completing the transition of SIBA to a unified national member organisation as we enter a most exciting time for spatial businesses,” she said.

“The Board is to be commended for implementing a range of reforms and innovative initiatives in recent years, and they recognise that considerable challenges lie ahead in navigating significant disruption in the industry.”