Jon Maree Baker
Bohena Creek
Summary
Detail-oriented professional with 20 years in policy and stakeholder management. Excellent business and industry awareness and understanding of industry trends to impact business growth and opportunity. Work creatively in fast-paced environment to maintain demanding timelines.
Experienced with strategic planning and business development essential for executive roles. Utilizes comprehensive knowledge of financial management to steer company success and implement growth strategies. Strong understanding of team dynamics and operational efficiency, ensuring consistent achievement of organizational goals.
Detail-oriented individual with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
5
5
Certifications
Work History
Company Director / Financial Controller
Baker Ag Investments Pty Ltd
01.2021 - 01.2025
- Direct financial and operational management for a rural engineering business operating across northern NSW and southern Queensland.
- Oversee budgeting, reporting, and compliance for multiple complex projects.
- Strategic planning and business development initiatives to drive growth and efficiency.
Executive Officer
Namoi Water Incorporated
01.2010 - 01.2021
- Managed business operations and financial oversight for regional advocacy group representing water licence holders across the Namoi Valley.
- Represented water access licence holders at state and federal forums, advocating for policy positions and stakeholder interests.
- Developed policy frameworks, prepared complex submissions and drove strategic planning amongst northern NSW irrigation groups.
- Supervised staff and contractors, ensuring efficient service delivery and compliance with governance standards.
- Led internal and external communications, including media management and stakeholder engagement.
- Maintained membership databases and facilitated effective communication with members, government contacts, and partners.
Team Leader, Personal Helpers and Mentors Program
Centacare New England North West
01.2009 - 01.2010
- Provided leadership and coordinated the delivery of the Personal Helpers and Mentors (PHaM) program within Narrabri Shire. Established service capacity and developed partnerships with government agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders.
- Identified and trained staff to meet program quality standards; supported ongoing professional development.
- Managed administrative and corporate governance requirements, including grant applications, record keeping, and reporting.
- Advocated for Centacare programs and represented the organization in community forums.
- Maintained professional ethics and security of client files; supervised staff and volunteers.
Consultant & Business Manager
Baker Agricultural Services
01.1997 - 01.2007
- Provided consultancy and business management services to clients in the Australian Cotton Industry, including Cotton Consultants Australia, Cotton Research Development Corporation, and Australian Cotton Pickers Association.
Executive Officer
Cotton Consultants Australia Inc
01.1997 - 01.2007
- Designed and implemented professional development programs for agronomists nationwide.
- Coordinated board reporting, membership relations, and financial management.
- Developed communication strategies and produced multifaceted documents to promote agricultural consultancy.
- Represented the association on the Australian Cotton Industry Council.
- Developed long-term strategies for financial security and service provision.
Education
Diploma - Law
Legal Profession Admission Board
11-2025
Diploma - Business Management
TAFE
01.2011
Diploma - Case Management
TAFE
01.2010
Skills
Operations management
Human resources management
Corporate governance
Innovation management
People management
Risk management
Financial management
Certification
Certificate in Company Directorship, ACID (2004) DAFF Scholarship winner
Awards & Honours
Department Agriculture Forestry Fisheries Scholarship, AICD course (2004)
Centenary Medal Service to Rural Industries (2001)
NSW RIRDC Rural Woman of the Year Award (2001)
Developed and led project for Women’s Industry Network Cotton (Wincott) and Advancing Partnerships in Cotton Leadership Program
Affiliations
- Board Member, NSWIC (2020–2021)
- Land Manager, Yarrie Lake Land Manager Trust (2018–2021)
- Committee Member, Narrabri Women’s Refuge (2009–2010)
- Director, New England North West Area Consultative Committee (2006–2009)
- Director, Australian Cotton Industry Council (2000–2007)
- Founding Member, Wincott – Women’s Industry Network (1999–2004)
- Established Advancing Partnerships in Cotton Leadership Program (2001 RIRDC Project)
Timeline
Company Director / Financial Controller
Baker Ag Investments Pty Ltd
01.2021 - 01.2025
Executive Officer
Namoi Water Incorporated
01.2010 - 01.2021
Team Leader, Personal Helpers and Mentors Program
Centacare New England North West
01.2009 - 01.2010
Consultant & Business Manager
Baker Agricultural Services
01.1997 - 01.2007
Executive Officer
Cotton Consultants Australia Inc
01.1997 - 01.2007
Diploma - Business Management
TAFE
Diploma - Case Management
TAFE
Diploma - Law
Legal Profession Admission Board