ATA welcomes veteran transportation executive as new CEO

The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has welcomed Former National Transport Commission Chair Michael Deegan as its new CEO.

Deegan has been involved in road freight transport policy for more than 20 years. His previous senior roles include Chair of the National Transport Commission, National Infrastructure Coordinator at Infrastructure Australia and CEO of the South Australian Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure.

Deegan’s involvement with trucking began working in the mines driving heavy vehicles and has evolved to include an instrumental role in the establishment of PBS and vast experience with heavy vehicle charging policy.

“Michael is an expert at developing and implementing visionary strategies, responsible for Australia’s first national transport plan and first national freight strategy,” said David Smith, Chair of ATA.

“The ATA board believes Michael is the leader we need to push ahead with the extensive work the ATA and its members have done on our strategic plan,” he said.

As CEO, Deegan will work with ATA members to refine and implement the plan, as well as improving member engagement and leading strategic lobbying activities.

“Michael will lead and implement our strategic direction and the projects we deliver, from the ATA’s role in the industry’s COVID-19 response through to infrastructure and productivity priorities,” Smith said.

NHVR also welcomed the new ATA chief, with NVRH CEO Sal Petroccitto saying the NHVR staff looked forward to working with Deegan to continue to support the delivery of a modern heavy vehicle reform agenda.

“Michael has decades of experience across infrastructure and transport in Australia and has delivered many positive and practical outcomes for industry,” Petroccitto said.

“He joins the ATA at a pivotal time, as we work towards delivering a forward-looking heavy vehicle law to support improved safety and enhanced productivity,” he said.

“I look forward to working alongside Michael, ATA Chairman David Smith and the ATA staff to ensure we deliver the best outcomes for the hundreds of thousands of workers that keep Australia moving every day,” he concluded.

Petroccitto also thanked interim CEO Bill McKinley for his dedication and ongoing engagement over the past few months.

Source(s): ATA, NVRH