Current CEO Irwin to step into advisory role to help in transition
Dean Dalla Valle has been named the new CEO of Pacific National following current CEO David Irwin’s decision to step down from the role.
Dalla Valle will commence the new role on July 17.
He comes to the rail freight sector after serving four decades at BHP Billiton, where, until recently, he was the chief commercial officer.
Welcoming Valle to the new role, Pacific National executive chairman Russell Smith says he is confident the new CEO will “strengthen” the business.
“With his depth of background in the successful management of large, capital intensive businesses, his knowledge of supply chain dynamics and his extensive hands-on operational knowledge and experience, Dean is an excellent fit for Pacific National,” Smith says.
“As CEO, Dean will be extremely well placed to lead Pacific National as we continue to deliver on the company’s plans to strengthen and grow the business, leveraging the expected expansion in the national freight task over coming years.”
The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) also welcomes the news of Valle’s appointment.
The peak logistics body says Dalla Valle’s experience will be a “welcome addition to the policy debate around supply chain efficiency and safety and the requirements of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy”.
The company states Irwin will step into an advisory role “to ensure a smooth transition”.
ALC joins Smith in thanking Irwin for his service to the freight logistics industry.
“I would like to express my gratitude to David Irwin for his many years of service with Pacific National,” Smith says.
“The company is stronger for his leadership and I know we will continue to benefit from his deep knowledge of the freight and logistics sector in future.”
Irwin is a current director of ALC and “strong supporter” of the Inland Rail project.