The Australian government has appointed Dr. Paul Grimes as the new CEO of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade). Dr. Grimes succeeds former CEO Xavier Simonet, with Daniel Boyer having served as acting CEO during the transition. Grimes brings extensive experience in public service, having held senior positions across state, federal, and territory governments. His previous roles include Secretary of the New South Wales Department of Treasury, as well as Secretary of the Federal Department of Agriculture and the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Population and Communities.
Prior to joining Austrade, Grimes served as Chair of the NSW Net Zero Commission and Chair of the National Archives of Australia Advisory Council. He was awarded the Australian Public Service Medal in 2010 for his contributions to the Australian Government’s response to the global financial crisis. Austrade plays a crucial role in supporting Australian businesses to expand into new markets, attract investment to bolster Australian industries, and promote Australia as a leading destination for tourism and education, particularly in building a ‘Future Made in Australia’.
