Radisich shock resignation from COSBOA

Former Western Australian Labor politician Jaye Radisich has unexpectedly resigned from the chief executive position at the Council of Small Business of Australia.

Ms Radisich confirmed to WA Business News of her departure, which comes around 15 months after she was appointed to the role.

She would not comment further on specific questions, but in a statement said that her resignation comes into effect on May 21.

She added that she would be "taking a short holiday followed by further pursuits in business".

The council has already started the selection process for her replacement, verifying some media reports that Ms Radisich resigned a fortnight ago.

SmartCompany.com.au reported that tensions at a boardroom level was behind Ms Radisich's departure.

The statement is below:

It is with regret that the Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA) has received the resignation of CEO Jaye Radisich, which will take effect from 21 May 2010.

COSBOA Chairman Richard Brooks said that "Jaye leaves COSBOA in a strong position to continue advocacy on behalf of the small business sector and has raised the profile of small business with key decision makers."

"The COSBOA board wishes Jaye all the best in her future endeavours and publicly expresses its appreciation for her commitment during her time in the role, and for the extensive list of achievements that she has made on behalf of the small business sector," stated Richard Brooks.

Ms Radisich said she is proud to have been a part of COSBOA at a time when the advocacy of the organisation has had a significant impact in so many key policy areas affecting small business including banking and finance, competition law, paid parental leave, amendments to the Do Not Call Register, tax reform and more.

"I am particularly proud of the significant Fair Work for Small Business project awarded to COSBOA and am very excited about the new-look National Small Business Summit being held on 8 July in conjunction with Kochie's Business Builders," Jaye Radisich said.

"After leading a significant period of organisational change and growth at COSBOA I look forward to passing the baton to another dedicated small business advocate to continue the important work of representing small business organisations in Australia."

In addition, Ms Radisich acknowledged Chairman Richard Brooks for his guidance and stewardship of COSBOA since February 2009; "Richard's support and extensive contribution to COSBOA over this period has been invaluable, and his many hours of volunteer work should not go unrecognised."

Richard Brooks said the COSBOA board has already commenced the selection process for a replacement CEO and will make an announcement soon.