Port of Melbourne has reported that Leigh Petschel will join the association as its new CFO. Petschel is to join the port in November from Monash College, where he has been CFO and VP since 2021.
Saul Cannon, CEO of the Port of Melbourne, stated that Petschel’s experience was well-suited to the organisation’s priorities.
“Leigh not only has an extensive history in financial and business strategy in infrastructure and regulated sectors, but he also brings a focus on innovation and global perspectives,” said Cannon.
Mr. Petschel said that joining Port of Melbourne was a big deal to him.
“Port of Melbourne is Australia’s largest container and general cargo port, and Leigh will play a pivotal role in retaining and growing that position. His experience in partnering with industry and government will also stand us in good stead, ensuring that we continue to deliver on our stewardship obligations to the State and work constructively with port users,” said Cannon.
Cannon thanked Darryl Mutzelburg, the retiring CFO, for his significant contribution and leadership.
“The Port of Melbourne is a critical part of Australia’s infrastructure and I look forward to contributing to its development,” said Petschel.
“Since 2017, Darryl has overseen the transition of the business from government to private ownership, including refinancing approximately $5 billion of debt and embedding the unique regulatory framework applicable to Port of Melbourne.
Darryl has also been heavily involved in commercial matters, including designing and implementing commercial and access arrangements for the Port Rail Transformation Project, negotiating arrangements for the extension of the Webb Dock East berths and renegotiating a number of lease arrangements at the port.” Cannon added.