Dr Mark Apthorpe was appointed as NSW’s first Electricity Infrastructure Jobs Advocate by the Minister for Energy in February 2022. This role requires Mark to provide advice to the Minister for Energy on initiatives to optimise jobs in the transition to renewable energy in NSW. The role also requires Mark to provide advice on road, rail and port infrastructure to support the growth of an energy related export industry. Mark has had an extensive executive management career –– predominantly in Transport and Logistics, Industrial Services, Mining Services and Construction. His most recent corporate role was as global CEO of an equipment and service business providing the electrical infrastructure required in tunnelling, mining and civil construction. He is also an Honorary Lecturer in Management at the Newcastle Business School at the University of Newcastle. Mark also has significant experience in director roles and is the current chair of Hunter Plant Operator Training School Ltd (HPOTS) and the Hunter section of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).

With over 20 years’ experience, Michelle is responsible for managing communications, community engagement and stakeholder relationships for Iberdrola Australia Network’s projects in Australia. Michelle holds a Graduate Certificate in Community Relations, and a Graduate Certificate in Social Impact Assessment. With experience in the renewable energy and mining industries, Michelle plays a critical role in fostering positive relationships between the company and various stakeholders, including local communities, government bodies, First Nations People and other interested groups. Her responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities aimed at building trust, promoting transparency, and ensuring the success of renewable energy and network infrastructure projects. Extensive experience in managing and delivering stakeholder engagement strategies and delivering partnership and community benefit programs that contribute to the well-being of local communities. Collaborating with community leaders to identify areas where the company can provide support and gathering feedback from stakeholders to integrate into project planning and decision-making processes to ensure successful projects for the company and the community. Michelle’s experience in the renewable energy industry ranges from early development, land access, through construction and operations phases, which provides valuable experience to support the company.