Chief Executive Andrew Kay has extended his gratitude on behalf of the South Australian Business Chamber board and staff to Nikki Govan, following the conclusion of her 9.5‑year term on the board of South Australia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
“It has been an absolute pleasure working with Nikki. The business community of South Australia is stronger as a result of her leadership and owes her a great deal of gratitude”, said Mr Kay.
Govan joined the Chamber’s volunteer board in 2013. She was elected to the position of Deputy Chair in 2015 before becoming Chair in 2018 where she would play a pivotal role in the stewardship of the Chamber as it navigated its way through the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Little did I realise when I was elected as Chair, I would soon be steering the South Australian Business Chamber through the most turbulent time in recent business history.
“During the pandemic, the board met weekly to respond to challenging conditions and restrictions.
“My position on various other committees and boards allowed me to play a cross-organisational, collaborative role in the rebuilding of South Australia’s economy.
“Using my role on the National Tourism Taskforce, we advocated through the South Australian Business Chamber to secure funding for COVID-affected businesses, particularly hospitality and tourism.
“We also played a pivotal role in the relaxation of restrictions and reopening of state borders as soon as it became safe to do so”, said Ms Govan.
Nikki’s career in senior government and private sector roles, as well as owning a small business has greatly contributed to her various responsibilities during her tenure.
Over the course of nine years, Nikki served as Chair of the South Australian Business Chamber’s marketing and communications committee, was a member of its audit, risk and finance committee and governance, nominations, and remuneration committee.
“It’s been a busy time, but I have been honoured to serve South Australia’s business community”, Ms Govan added.
Nikki isn’t expected to slow down anytime soon and is pleased to announce her appointment to the position of Chair, Green Industries SA on the invitation of Deputy Premier Susan Close MP.
“It’s not greener pastures, but it is a new and exciting challenge”, Ms Govan added.
Nikki will remain as an independent director on the board of ACCI, the South Australian Business Chamber’s national counterpart, following a one-year extension of her appointment in October 2022.
The South Australian Business Chamber is expected to announce Nikki’s successor at their sell-out International Women’s Day event, next Wednesday afternoon.
