The Central Highlands Development Corporation has welcomed a new leader – Arjan Bloemer.

Mr Bloemer is now CHDC chief executive officer, following the retirement of Sandra Hobbs.

Mr Bloemer hails from Toowoomba, where he was an independent advisor to company boards and executive level managers.

He has previously worked across a range of industries and regions in Australia in senior executive and managing director roles with companies such as Heritage Bank, Accenture and Ernst and Young.   

“This unique set of experiences and expertise has proven to be a great foundation to help organisations tackle their biggest challenges and develop opportunities, particularly with an agenda that drives growth and strategic diversification,” Mr Bloemer said.

“Working across the resources, agriculture, tourism, SME and finance sectors has also enabled me to develop an understanding of the unique needs and challenges of each sector.”

Ms Hobbs, who had been at the helm of CHDC for 11 years, was farewelled at a function in Emerald earlier this month by the corporation’s staff, board and the Central Highlands Regional Council (CHRC).