The United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Smith to its Board of Directors.

Mr Smith was appointed as Secretary of the NSW Department of Industry by Premier Mike Baird in July 2015. He joined the department from the Office of Finance and Services (where he was Chief Executive) and before that, the Department of Premier and Cabinet (Deputy Secretary for Economic Policy).

Mr Smith trained as an economist, first joining the NSW Public Sector in 1994. His public sector roles have focused on the nexus between the economy and the environment, including roles in regulation, policy development and program delivery. He has also run a small business and worked in the finance sector.

Chairman of the USSC Board, Mark Baillie, said that Mr Smith’s extensive experience in the public sector, particularly portfolios connected with economic activity, would bring added depth to the Centre’s Board.

“Simon’s appointment to the Board comes on the recommendation of the Premier of NSW, Mike Baird. This shows not only the high esteem with which Simon is held but also, importantly, the ongoing support for the work of the Centre by the NSW Government.” he said.

The Centre's CEO, Simon Jackman, said that Mr Smith had a vast knowledge of the issues facing government and business in contemporary Australia.

"Simon's addition to the USSC Board will be extremely valuable as the Centre expands its research capacity on innovation, entrepreneurship and trade and investment, generating insights about the United States in these domains of most value to Australian policy makers."

Mr Smith said that he was honoured to have been nominated to join the Board.

"I look forward to helping the Centre identify practical opportunities to boost the economic strength of NSW, especially through exchange of knowledge and experience in areas like energy, technology, water management, innovation, skills and regulatory reform.”

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