Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, and Minister for Finance and Deregulation, Senator Penny Wong, today paid tribute to MrDavid Mortimer AO, who is leaving the Australia Post Board after serving with distinction since 2001, including the past six years as Chairman.
After eleven years on the Board, first as Deputy Chairman and then as Chairman, Mr Mortimers term concludes on 11 September 2012.
Mr Mortimer leaves Australia Post to seek new opportunities, and this decision is consistent with good corporate governance practice.
Mr Mortimer has overseen significant changes at Australia Post during his time as Chairman, including the growth in eCommerce and digital communication, a marked increase in parcel volumes, and declining volumes of traditional letters, Senator Conroy said.
He leaves with a record of success for which he should be extremely proud.
Under Mr Mortimers leadership, Australia Post has adapted to the pressures of a rapidly changing environment and come through the difficulties of the Global Financial Crisis as a stronger, more resilient organisation.
During a period in which many overseas postal operators have lost money, Australia Post has continued as a successful and profitable business.
Senator Wong also thanks Mr Mortimer for his leadership at Australia Post.
Mr Mortimer has made an outstanding contribution to Australia Post over the last eleven years, playing an instrumental role in shaping Australia Posts current strategic direction, Senator Wong said.
"With Mr Mortimer as Chairman, the Board has appointed a new Managing Director and CEO who, with the assistance of the Board, has initiated the Future Ready business renewal program the biggest transformation in the organisations 202 year history.
Australia Posts Future Ready program has seen it move its business into the digital economy, while still ensuring the integrity of its more traditional customer services, Senator Wong said.
Mr Mortimers successor will be announced in due course. In the interim period, Mr Mark Darras, Deputy Chairman of the Board, will serve as Acting Chairman.