THE AUSTRALIAN Logistics Council has appointed Air Vice Marshal Margaret Staib AM as its independent chair. 

Ms Staib has experience in defence, national security, transport, logistics, aviation, aerospace, cultural change, and organisational transformation.  

She began her career as a military logistician with the Royal Australian Air Force, rising to the rank of Air Vice Marshal.  

During her military service Ms Staib served as Commander Joint Logistics and Commandant of the Australian Defence Force Academy.  

She was honoured with the United States Meritorious Service Medal for her work on supply chain transformation at the Pentagon and the Conspicuous Service Cross for outstanding achievement supporting military aviation.  

“I am excited about leading this dynamic team to progress the ALC’s strategic goals which include fostering innovation, sustainability, and positive change in the supply chain and logistics industry for Australia’s prosperity,” Ms Staib said.  

“My background in military logistics, coupled with executive leadership roles, has equipped me to understand the complexities and opportunities in the supply chain and logistics industry.” 

Transitioning from the military, Staib led significant transformations as CEO and managing director of Air Services Australia, focusing on air safety, navigation technology, and cultural change.  

She continues to lead there as a non-executive director.  

In April 2020, Ms Staib was appointed as the Australian government freight controller in her capacity as Air Vice Marshal, overseeing the International Freight Assistance Mechanism, a crucial Covid-19 response program.  

In addition to facilitating outbound airfreight, Ms Staib prioritised securing inbound freight, including critical medical supplies and personal protective equipment.

Previously, Ms Staib held directorial positions at the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation and the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. 

Maintaining her ties to the defence community, she served as the Northern Territory Defence and National Security Advocate and chaired the Strategic Defence Advisory Board for the chief minister of the Northern Territory.  

She also contributed as a non-executive director of chief executive women and ACT Chapter Chair.  

ALC CEO Hermione Parsons said the appointment was the beginning of a new chapter. 

“We are on a journey of exciting opportunity and transformation for Australia’s end to end supply chain and freight logistics industry,” Dr Parsons said. 

“Now, with Margaret at the helm, and our commitment to a deeply experienced leadership team, we are poised to build on this foundation and drive the industry forward.” 

Ms Staib will help foster an experienced supply chain and freight logistics leadership team, with emphasis on the importance of steering the supply chain and freight logistics industry towards a sustainable future for Australia.  

“Together, with our talented team, we will navigate the evolving industry landscape and contribute to shaping a future where the Australian supply chain and freight logistics sector thrives in a dynamic and ever-changing world,” she said.