Business
20 November, 2025
Passion drives new CEO
LAINIE Poon has been appointed Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tropical North’s new chief executive officer to drive collaboration for economic growth across Far North Queensland.
RDA Tropical North chairwoman Hurriyet Babacan said Ms Poon (pictured, above) had been interim CEO for the past eight weeks.
“Lainie has been an integral part of the RDA Tropical North team for the past six years, joining as office manager in 2019 and progressing to executive services and business development manager before becoming relationships manager four years ago,” she said.
“Her proven track record in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and regional economic development has been central to Lainie’s role in leading stakeholder collaboration and public relations for our independent organisation.
“Lainie has demonstrated outstanding leadership, a strong understanding of the region’s priorities and a collaborative style that brings people together.”
Ms Poon said she was passionate about collaboration and helping the region to speak with one voice.
“I will build on the strong foundations laid by my predecessor (Sonja Johnson) and myself over the past four years to progress our Tropical North Economic Development Strategy pathways, provide support to achieve shared regional outcomes, and ensure Indigenous participation is embedded into our regional development practices,” she said.
“Far North Queensland punches well above its weight – every day I am inspired by the innovators, entrepreneurs and community leaders who are driving our region forward with passion, determination and grit,” she said.
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