AJBCC Executive Committee Update

The AJBCC is delighted to welcome the Chief Executive Officer of Austrade, Mr Xavier Simonet, onto its Executive Committee. In welcoming Mr Simonet to the Committee, AJBCC President Sir Rod Eddington said, “In addition to providing a valuable connection between the AJBCC’s activities and government efforts to promote trade and investment between Australia and Japan, Mr Simonet will bring to the Executive Committee a wealth of experience as an international businessman and entrepreneur.”

Accepting the appointment, Mr Simonet said “I am delighted to have the opportunity to work directly with some of Australia’s and Japan’s most important businesses to build on this hugely important economic relationship. The AJBCC has played a vital role for nearly sixty years in nurturing and building business between Australia and Japan, but changes in the international business environment mean that it has never been more important than it is now.”

Before taking up the role of CEO of Austrade in April 2020, Mr Simonet was Group CEO and Managing Director of Kathmandu Holdings, which comprises the Kathmandu, Rip Curl and Oboz brands, and has previously held the roles of CEO of Radley London and International Director of Seafolly Group. He also worked for 11 years for LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy) in Europe, Asia and Australia.

Born and raised in France, Mr Simonet and his family have chosen to make Australia their home. He brings a passion for Australia alongside an international perspective that will help to identify the right opportunities and messages to boost Australian businesses around the world.

Mr Simonet’s appointment to the Executive Committee continues a long association between the AJBCC and Austrade. Sir Rod Eddington took the opportunity to thank outgoing Executive Committee member Tim Beresford, for his contribution while on the Executive Committee.