New chief executive officer appointed to lead Australia-Pacific business councils

The Australia Pacific Islands Business Council, Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council, and Australia Fiji Business Council have appointed Leata Alaimoana-Roberts as their new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2026. She takes over from Frank Yourn, who dedicated more than two decades to the role and was instrumental in the expansion of the councils across the Pacific.

“

I’m very excited to announce Leata’s appointment. She brings a fantastic level of experience and energy to the role and I think it’s a very, very exciting time.

Alaimoana-Roberts brings a wealth of experience in trade, investment, and economic development, with a proven track record of fostering partnerships among governments, businesses, and regional stakeholders throughout the Pacific. Her leadership roles have focused on attracting investment, enhancing regional engagement, and achieving tangible commercial results.

Her appointment arrives at a time of burgeoning commercial ties between Australia and the Pacific. Opportunities are growing in sectors such as infrastructure, trade, investment, agriculture, and regional connectivity. In her new capacity, Alaimoana-Roberts will head the shared secretariat supporting the three councils. Her responsibilities will include managing member engagement, developing strategic partnerships, and executing crucial initiatives like major business forums and trade missions.

“

I hope all members will join me and the Executive Committee in congratulating and thanking Frank on his exceptional contribution to the Council. Frank’s successor has very large shoes to fill.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Mills, a representative, stated, “I’m very excited to announce Leata’s appointment. She brings a fantastic level of experience and energy to the role and I think it’s a very, very exciting time.” He also acknowledged Yourn’s significant contributions, noting that his successor has “very large shoes to fill.” Alaimoana-Roberts shared her anticipation, saying, “I’m really excited by the opportunity, by what’s happening in the Pacific right now and also, importantly, working closely together with you all.” The councils also lauded Yourn for his long-standing efforts in strengthening commercial and institutional links between Australia and Pacific Island nations. He will remain in a transitional capacity for six months to ensure a smooth handover.

“

I’m really excited by the opportunity, by what’s happening in the Pacific right now and also, importantly, working closely together with you all. We really want to work closely with the private sector, as well as see how best we can continue the legacy and the amazing foundation that’s been built over the years.