RUSSELL Thomas has been named as the new CEO of the Australia China Business Council.

He comes with a strong background in leading member-based organisations having been the CEO and managing director of the Financial Services Institute of Australia (Finsia).

Mr Thomas also has an extensive professional background in policy and advocacy focused on the Australia-China economic relationship and has lived and studied in China.

The appointment comes at a difficult time in the Australia-China relationship, with Australian exporters increasingly being squeezed out of the Asian giant’s markets.

National president and chairman of the ACBC, David Olsson said, “We are thrilled to have a CEO of Russell’s calibre to lead the organisation.

“With his strategic and commercial capabilities, his appreciation of the rapidly changing dynamics of our region and his wealth of experience in running a federated member-based organisation, he will ensure that ACBC maintains its instrumental role in representing Australian business and promoting our members’ continued commitment to China and the region.”

Mr Thomas said he was “excited to be joining the ACBC as CEO at this crucial juncture in Australia-China relations”.

“Boosting trade and investment links as part of Australia’s post-pandemic economic recovery has never been more important,” he said.

“With its unrivalled network of branches in every capital city in Australia and access to the latest insights and deepest networks, ACBC is uniquely placed to continue to build a strong future for Australian business engaged with China.

“My focus will be on delivering the best possible service to our members and to representing their interests in a way which supports their long-term success.”