Tony Usher
North Fremantle,WA
Summary
Dynamic leader with a proven track record as CEO at Aboriginal Hostels Limited and other complex enterprises, driving governance reform and securing on-going funding to enhance operational sustainability. Highly effective in strategic planning and team leadership, successfully managing 600 employees and multi-million-dollar assets. Passionate about fostering organisational growth and cultural sensitivity in diverse environments.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief Executive Officer
Aboriginal Hostels Limited
Canberra, ACT
06.2016 - 04.2020
- Appointed as Head of Agency to execute comprehensive Governance Review for Indigenous Agency.
- Developed reparation and reform strategy to enhance financial and operational sustainability.
- Managed governance reform, strategic redirection, and reset of financial objectives effectively.
- Oversaw utilization of multi-million-dollar infrastructure assets across 47 national hostels.
- Directed 600 employees to achieve organizational goals aligned with new initiatives.
- Secured funding and philanthropic appropriations to support agency’s objectives.
- Completed mandate successfully through efficient resource management and strategic planning.
- Subsequently (upon my retirement) I was approached by the former Chairperson to assist in the management and growth of Sister Kate's Aged Care facility on a part-time basis.
Managing Director/Principal
Usher Global Consulting Pty Ltd
Perth, WA
06.2010 - 06.2016
- Facilitated national and global business-to-business and business-to-market initiatives.
- Provided contract and patent management expertise while addressing cultural sensitivities.
- Executed supply chain management strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
- Conducted senior executive recruitment campaigns for companies like Coflexip, Qantas and DHL Worldwide Express.
- Managed significant contracts, including labor hire for Chandler Macleod across diverse sectors.
- Oversaw live animal export operations for Wellard Shipping & Trading in SE Asia and Middle East.
- Evaluated the efficiencies of market and business strategies for Fortune 500 companies in Australasia and Asia.
Chief Executive Officer
RIAS Technologies (International) Limited
Perth, WA
06.2006 - 05.2010
- Transformed a struggling business into a multiple international award winner, preparing for public listing or acquisition.
- Developed and managed international product launches in 27 countries through strategic partnerships with Austrade and EFIC.
- Oversaw recruitment and appointment of distribution contractors and franchisees on an international scale.
- Managed an extensive international patent portfolio to protect innovations.
Chief Executive Officer
United Farmers’ Co-operative Co Ltd
North Fremantle, WA
03.2002 - 05.2006
- Transformed underperforming member-owned organisation into finalist for Rabo Bank Agricultural Employer of the Year Awards for two consecutive years.
- Established three new revenue streams, boosting total revenue from $78 million to $180 million.
- Enhanced recruitment and retention processes to attract and retain top talent.
- Led initiatives to strengthen organisational performance during cyclical downturns in import commodities.
General Manager: Transport & Logistics Division
Brambles Transport Industries Australia
Perth, WA
11.1994 - 02.2000
- Oversaw Rail, Road, Warehousing, Shipping, and Airfreight divisions of international business.
- Managed design, construction oversight, and ongoing operations of major terminals in Fremantle.
- Accountable for acquisition and operation of substantial fleet of light and heavy haulage vehicles.
- Directed operations of road and rail container lifting machinery and terminal facilities.
Regional General Manager QLD/VIC
National Rail Corporation
Brisbane/Melbourne, QLD/VIC
06.1991 - 10.1994
- Spearheaded amalgamation of five independent rail systems into one national framework.
- Led Queensland start-up initiatives, ensuring smooth operational integration.
- Appointed to oversee Victorian operations, enhancing regional performance.
- Promoted to National Business Development Manager, driving growth across entire national operation.
Regional Cargo Manager
Qantas Airways Limited
Sydney, NSW
02.1988 - 06.1991
Education
Graduate Certificate -
Australian Institute of Directors
Perth, WA10-2005
Governance and Risk in Agriculture Sector
Monash University
Melbourne, VIC03-2005
Skills
- Nonprofit and charity management
- Team leadership
- Financial analysis
- Change management
- Cultural sensitivity
- Business development
- Strategic planning
- Human resources management
- Capital raising
- Governance and risk management
- Policy formulation
- Government relations
- Resource management
- Operational efficiency
- Risk assessment
- Employee recruitment
- Policy development
- Board governance
- Executive leadership
- Budget planning
- Regulatory compliance
- Business start up
Security Clearances
- Federal Parliament Access Security
- National Police Clearance
- ASIC & AFP Clearance
- International Security Clearance (APEC)
- State Maritime Security Clearance Certificate (MSIC)
- Working with Children
Board Experience
- Independent Director, Tjiwarl Aboriginal corporation, True
- Non Executive Director, Business Foundations Limited, True
- Company Secretary, Sister Kate Foundation, True
- Independent Director/Actg CEO, Karlka Developments Pty Ltd, 03/2020 - 08/2022
- Chairman, Desert Feet Incorporated, 03/2015 - 06/2017
- Director, Ngarluma Tharndu Kurrungu Maya Ltd, 03/2013 - 06/2016
- Global NFP Ambassador, Wheelchairs for Kids Foundation, 01/2004 - 12/2013
- Independent Director, Gilganyem & Kilkayi Trusts, 01/2009 - 12/2012
- NED, NETCO, 01/2003 - 12/2006
- Director, Intework Group, 01/1995 - 12/1998
Affiliations
- Graduate of the Australian Institute of Directors (GAICD)
Timeline
Chief Executive Officer
Aboriginal Hostels Limited
06.2016 - 04.2020
Managing Director/Principal
Usher Global Consulting Pty Ltd
06.2010 - 06.2016
Chief Executive Officer
RIAS Technologies (International) Limited
06.2006 - 05.2010
Chief Executive Officer
United Farmers’ Co-operative Co Ltd
03.2002 - 05.2006
General Manager: Transport & Logistics Division
Brambles Transport Industries Australia
11.1994 - 02.2000
Regional General Manager QLD/VIC
National Rail Corporation
06.1991 - 10.1994
Regional Cargo Manager
Qantas Airways Limited
02.1988 - 06.1991
Graduate Certificate -
Australian Institute of Directors
Governance and Risk in Agriculture Sector
Monash University
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