TAL director named CEDA chair

Christine Bartlett has joined the board of the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) as chair, taking over from WA-based business leader Diane Smith-Gander earlier this month.

CEDA chief executive Melinda Cilento said Bartlett brings a depth of experience across both the business and non-profit sectors, making her ideally placed to guide CEDA as it embarks on its new Progress 2050 vision for Australia's economic and social future.

Bartlett is currently a non-executive director of TAL, Mirvac, Australian Clinical Labs, and Reliance Worldwide.

She was a director of the children's charity The Smith Family for 12 years, serving as chair from 2016-2019, and has been a director of Sigma Healthcare, GBST, PropertyLook, and icare.

She is a member of Chief Executive Women and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Bartlett said it is an honour to lead CEDA and succeed Smith-Gander as in the role.

"Diane has provided outstanding stewardship of CEDA over the last five years. In that time, CEDA has significantly increased its voice on the most pressing economic and social public policy issues in Australia," Bartlett said.

"At a time of growing political polarisation, fraying social cohesion and geoeconomic uncertainty, it is critical to foster an environment that allows for healthy and open debate.

"CEDA provides a safe and welcoming space to debate and discuss all sides of the most vitally important issues shaping Australia's future. I am pleased to be joining the board at this important moment."

Smith-Gander said it had been a privilege to lead CEDA.

"CEDA has increased its influence and impact on the public policy debate in Australia during my tenure," she said.

"Highlights include our research on migration, aged care and disadvantage, and our sharply curated major events program, including new annual summits on climate change and AI.

"Thanks also to my fellow CEDA board members for their support, professionalism and expertise over the last five years."

Prior to her board career, Bartlett was an experienced chief executive and senior executive with firms including IBM, Jones Lang LaSalle and National Australia Bank.