Soon-to-be retired Fremantle Ports chief executive Kerry Sanderson has been appointed as the new Western Australian representative in Europe.
Premier Alan Carpenter today said Ms Sanderson had accepted a two year term as Agent General starting in November and based in London. She replaces outgoing agent general Noel Ashcroft.
Yesterday Ms Sanderson announced her retirement from Fremantle Ports where she has held the chief executive position for the past 17 years.
Mr Carpenter said Ms Sanderson would be an excellent representative for WA in Europe.
"I have every confidence that Ms Sanderson's outstanding skills and experience will ensure the effective promotion of WA throughout Europe," Mr Carpenter said.
He added that the Agent General historically played an important role in maintaining and promoting business, government and cultural ties with Europe.
"It is now more heavily focused on establishing business and trade opportunities," he said.
"Mrs Sanderson has had extensive experience within the public sector, formerly holding senior positions within the Departments of Transport (Deputy Director General) and Treasury (Director, Economic and Financial Policy)."
Europe is one of the largest sources of foreign direct investment for WA and Australia. Total trade between the European Union and WA for 2006-07 was $11.7billion.