Following a detailed recruitment process, the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) Board has appointed Trish Hyde to the role of CEO.
Hyde has replaced Tony Gleeson, who announced his impending resignation late last year, but will help with the seamless leadership transition over the coming weeks.
AIRAH president Paul Jackson, said Hyde’s passion for sustainability, proven ability to lead organisations, and capacity for change management matched the role’s requirements.
“We are excited to recruit someone of Trish’s talent, experience and character to the important role of AIRAH chief executive,” Jackson said. “Tony has laid a great foundation for the organisation over the past seven years, achieving wins in a number of key areas and working closely with the Board to set a bold, ambitious agenda for strategic transformation.
“With Trish at the helm, AIRAH is in an excellent position to take the next step as a contemporary member organisation, with a key role to play in our net zero future.”
Hyde has been CEO of several member-based associations that excelled in member value delivery, including advocacy, and has specific sustainability skills and knowledge, having worked on multiple APAC circular economy initiatives. These include The Plastics Circle, the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC), and the Confectionery Manufacturers of Australasia.
Hyde described the appointment as a true honour.
“Built on the profession’s record of air control innovation, safety, and sustainability, AIRAH has the ability to help make our world more sustainable. I’m looking forward to working with the Board, the team, stakeholders, and our members on this journey,” she said.
With a particular interest in the built environment and advocacy, Hyde is looking forward to promoting the role of HVAC&R in facilitating Australia’s path to net zero emissions.
“The profession has a right to be front and centre in the fight against climate change,” she said.