The deputy director of Queensland’s public transit agency Translink has been appointed Chair of the Public Transport Association of Australia New Zealand.

Translink Deputy Director-General Sally Stannard, one of the state’s leading advisors on transport strategy, will become the association’s third female Chair following Heather Webster and Vivienne King.

Ms Stannard was elected at a PTAANZ board meeting in Sydney last month.

L.E.K. Consulting Senior Partner Mark Streeting was reelected to the PTAANZ Board and appointed Vice Chair.

Ms Stannard said she was looking forward to leading the industry in public transport innovation and sustainable mobility during a time of transformation and uncertainty.

“Public transport is facing a time of change and, while adapting to that change will have its challenges, it also offers some exciting opportunities,” Ms Stannard said.

“Travel patterns have evolved, the public transport sector is grappling with increased costs and uncertain supply chains and there is a move to decarbonise.

“These are all challenges for our industry to work through.”

In other appointments to the board, Chief Executive Officer, Yarra Trams and CEO-designate, Keolis Downer, Julien Dehornoy as been elected as a new director along with Managing Director Transportation at Aurecon Scott Smith.

PTAANZ represents over 70 public and private member organisations.

*This story has been updated to clarify that Ms Stannard is the third female chair of PTAANZ.