Former Telstra chief executive Andy Penn has been appointed as the new chair of Visit Victoria – the agency responsible for attracting visitors to the state for work and play.
Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos announced on Tuesday that Mr Penn would replace current chair Janet Whiting AM who will step away after five years in the role.
Mr Penn’s long business career culminated in seven years leading Telstra from 2015 to 2022.
He has also served as chair of the commonwealth government’s industry advisory committee on cyber security and is a member of the council of trustees at the National Gallery of Victoria.
In the 2023 Australia Day honours, he received an AO for distinguished service to business, charitable organisations, youth and the arts.
Mr Dimopoulos said that Mr Penn was an experienced leader who would make a significant contribution to Visit Victoria.
“I’m looking forward to working alongside him as Visit Victoria continues their work making our state Australia’s most exciting, dynamic and diverse destination for all types of travellers,” he said while also paying tribute to the outgoing chair.
“I would like to thank Janet Whiting for her incredible leadership during a huge period of growth for Victoria’s tourism sector. Under your guidance Visit Victoria has secured world class major events, seen record tourism numbers – backing local jobs and operators right across the state.”
Mr Penn takes over as chair on September 30.
