Joint media release: Appointment of new Regional Investment Corporation CEO

Minister for Finance, Minister for the Public Service and Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Murray Watt

A new CEO has been appointed to lead the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC), the Australian Government-backed specialist finance provider for farmers and farm-related small businesses.

Experienced finance CEO John Howard has been selected by the RIC Board for an initial 3-year term. It follows his successful career working across financial management and the agricultural supply chain, from primary production (family and corporate farming), commodity marketing, trading, manufacturing and food marketing.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said Mr Howard was selected by the RIC Board following a comprehensive selection process and would commence in the role on 21 November.

“Mr Howard is an experienced CEO who has worked extensively in the agricultural industry and across the supply chain. He also possesses business strategy and transformation and financial investment experience,” Minister Watt said.

“The RIC provides concessional loans to farmers and farm-related small businesses to support their long-term strength, resilience and profitability so it’s important to have a CEO that understands that experience.

“I congratulate Mr Howard on his appointment as the CEO of the RIC and look forward to working with him to support our farmers and regional communities.”

Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher said the RIC CEO played an important role in the success of the RIC and the outcomes it delivers for its clients.

“Mr Howard’s experience and knowledge across the sector will be an asset to the continued efficient and effective functioning of the RIC,” Minister Gallagher said.

“I congratulate him and look forward to working with him.”

Both Ministers also thanked Mr Paul Dowler for his leadership as Acting CEO of the RIC from January 2022. Mr Dowler will return to his role as Executive Director of RIC Corporate Services.