National Farmers' Federation chief executive resigns after four months
The National Farmers' Federation are again searching for a new chief executive following the resignation of Troy Williams.
Mr Williams only started in the role on March 3 and his resignation comes at a crucial time for farm advocacy as stakeholders struggle for traction on a range of issues, from the rollout of renewables in the regions to securing a carve-out for farmers from Labor's superannuation tax changes.
The lobby group also finds itself without a permanent chief amid a self-described "once in a generation" internal reform process of its governance, membership structure and policy advocacy model.
The resignation is understood to be effective immediately.
Mr Williams was appointed after former chief executive Tony Mahar resigned last year, after eight years in the job, to take up a position as Australia's Energy Infrastructure Commissioner.
In a statement, NFF president David Jochinke said Mr Williams made the decision for "personal reasons" and that an interim CEO would be appointed, while no further details on that front were provided.
"While leadership transitions are significant, I am proud of our experienced and committed team. It's business as usual in our work for members and the agricultural sector," he said.
"The Board will commence recruitment for the new CEO, mindful of the NFF AGM in October. In the meantime, we will appoint an interim CEO to ensure leadership and operational continuity."
Former deputy NFF CEO Charlie Thomas was recently appointed the chief executive of the Victorian Farmers' Federation.
In a January 28 press release announcing his appointment, Mr Williams said 2025 "will be pivotal in shaping policies that secure the future of Australian farming and rural communities."
"I'm looking forward to strengthening the NFF's connection with its members to ensure their priorities are at the heart of our advocacy," he said.
He did not contribute to an NFF statement released on Tuesday morning and has updated his LinkedIn profile to indicate that he has moved on from the farming organisation to an "association management professional".
In announcing his appointment in January, Mr Jochinke pointed to Mr Williams' extensive experience leading prominent industry associations at the state and national levels.
"Troy is recognised for his exceptional ability to bring stakeholders together, negotiating with senior government officials, politicians, and industry leaders," Mr Jochinke said.
Prior to joining the NFF, Mr Williams was chief executive of the Canberra-based Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia, but has also led industry organisations and businesses in the training, building, and property sectors.
The NFF has experienced a rocky time recently with the lengthy search for Mr Mahar's replacement coming after the Victorian Farmers' Federation signalling its intention to break ties with the national farming body last September and Australia's peak membership body for vegetable growers, AusVeg, sensationally quitting the organisation.