The Board of Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) is very pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Elena Zagorenko as its new Chair, replacing Mr Mike King OAM who has been in the role since July 2018. The appointment is effective from 24th February 2021, when Ms Zagorenko was elected Chair by fellow Board members at the AIPM Board meeting.

Elena brings both business acumen and a commercial astuteness that will support the Institute in implementing its strategy and help it navigate the constantly evolving environment of the post-COVID world.

Since arriving in Australia from the Ukraine in 2012, Elena has provided over 7 years of volunteering services to AIPM, including the past 2 years on its Board, where she has gained an in-depth understanding of the Institutes business, culture, people, and processes.

Elena’s career in project, program and portfolio management provides the AIPM Board and the Executive Team with invaluable insights into the wider industry. Her experience will help lead AIPM in a rapidly changing market and facilitate timely identification of opportunities and potential risks facing the Institute.

In addition, her experience in strategic business planning with BHP, leading Minerals Australia capital portfolio management function, as well as a background in Economics and International Marketing will help position AIPM for future success.

“The calibre of the Directors on our Board today is the highest it has ever been, and I feel privileged to be leading the board in quality decision-making that will underpin the success of our strategy moving forward” said Ms Zagorenko.

“We will be very fortunate to have the energy and knowledge of Elena as Chair of AIPM at a time when project management is a key skill to support both economic recovery and growth in Australia,” said Ms Elizabeth Foley, CEO of AIPM. “At a time when gender diversity is still such an issue in this country, it is great to see our first female chair appointment to lead the Institute” Ms Foley said.

“Elena’s passion will ensure engagement across its Board, staff, committees and members. She values inclusivity which will encourage the experience and quality of decisions from the Board, whilst focussing on strategy, performance, value creation and accountability” said Michael King, outgoing Chair of the AIPM Board. Mr King has served as Chapter President, Board Member and Chair at AIPM. The AIPM Board and Executive team offer their thanks and gratitude for his many years of service.

AIPM also announces that its Chief Executive Officer, Ms Elizabeth Foley, will be leaving the company following her resignation at the December 2020 Board meeting. Ms Foley will be pursuing a portfolio career upon her departure from AIPM in June 2021.

Chair Elena Zagorenko expressed her sincere thanks to Ms Foley. “Elizabeth has made a very significant contribution and impact as AIPM’s CEO,” she said. “She has provided outstanding leadership and vision through very difficult and challenging times. Elizabeth’s focus on growing and innovating the Institute were exemplary and we sincerely wish her the very best for the future.”

Ms Zagorenko said the Board will now commence recruitment for a new Chief Executive Officer. “We will be seeking a CEO to lead the Institute through its next phase of growth,” she said.

About AIPM

The Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) is the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. We are recognised by Australian business, industry and government as the key promoter, developer, and leader in project management professionalism for over 40 years. AIPM is a member of the International Project Management Association (IPMA).