A Samoan has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer Australia Pacific Islands Business Council, Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council and Australia Fiji Business Council
Leata Alaimoana-Roberts headed into the new role on 1 June 2026.
She succeeded Frank Yourn, who has served in the role for more than 20 years and has played a central role in the growth and development of the councils across the Pacific region.
The appointment comes at a time of expanding commercial engagement between Australia and the Pacific, with growing opportunities across infrastructure, trade, investment, agriculture and regional connectivity.
Alaimoana-Roberts brings extensive experience in trade, investment and economic development, with a strong background in building partnerships between governments, businesses and regional stakeholders across Pacific markets. She has held senior leadership roles focused on investment promotion, regional engagement and practical commercial outcomes.
