The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) has announced the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Margaret Staib AM CSC as the Independent Chair, commencing 16 February 2024.
Air Vice Marshal Staib began her career as a military logistician with the Royal Australian Air Force. During her military service she also served as Commander Joint Logistics and Commandant of the Australian Defence Force Academy. She was also honoured with the United States Meritorious Service Medal for her work on supply chain transformation at the Pentagon and the Conspicuous Service Cross for outstanding achievement supporting military aviation.
Transitioning from the military, Staib led significant transformations as CEO and Managing Director of Air Services Australia, focusing on air safety, navigation technology, and cultural change. Staib continues as a Non Executive Director.
In April 2020, She was appointed as the Australian Government Freight Controller in her capacity as Air Vice Marshal (Reservist), overseeing the International Freight Assistance Mechanism, a crucial COVID-19 response program. In addition to facilitating outbound airfreight, Staib prioritised securing inbound freight, including critical medical supplies and personal protective equipment, in the national interest.
Her educational background includes a Business Degree, Master of Business Studies (Logistics), and Master of Arts (Strategic Studies). She is a member of the Order of Australia, a finalist in awards like the Telstra Business Women’s Awards (2012) and AFR 100 Women of Influence (2012).
Previously, she held directorial positions at the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation and the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, among others, showcasing her commitment to public service and leadership.
Maintaining her ties to the defence community, Staib served as the Northern Territory Defence and National Security Advocate and chaired the Strategic Defence Advisory Board for the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory. She also contributed as a non-executive director of Chief Executive Women and ACT Chapter Chair.
ALC CEO, Dr Hermione Parsons commented: “The appointment of Margaret Staib as our Independent Chair marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the ALC. I want to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to outgoing Independent Chairman Philip Davies for his extraordinary contributions to the ALC and the industry, particularly during the challenges posed by COVID-19. Under his leadership, the ALC navigated unprecedented challenges and emerged stronger. Now, with Margaret at the helm, and our commitment to a deeply experienced leadership team, we are poised to build on this foundation and drive the industry forward. Together with the ALC Board, we believe strong leadership and advocacy is key to unlocking innovation and resilience across the logistics industry.”
Air Vice Marshal Margaret Staib commented: “I am honoured to take on the role of Independent Chair at the Australian Logistics Council and working closely with the ALC Board, Council and CEO. The ALC’s commitment to building a deeply experienced leadership team sends a powerful message about the importance of expertise in driving industry progress. I am excited about leading this dynamic team to progress the ALC’s strategic goals which include fostering innovation, sustainability, and positive change in the supply chain and logistics industry for Australia’s prosperity. My background in military logistics, coupled with executive leadership roles, has equipped me to understand the complexities and opportunities in the supply chain and logistics industry. Together, with our talented team, we will navigate the evolving industry landscape and contribute to shaping a future where the Australian supply chain and freight logistics sector thrives in a dynamic and ever-changing world.”