Senior executive and diplomat Justin McGowan will remain at the helm of Queensland’s global business agency for the next five years.
Mr McGowan has served as CEO for Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), which is tasked with promoting Queensland as a preferred investment destination, on a short term contract since January 2023.
Over the last two and a half years Mr McGowan has supported Queensland companies on trade missions to Japan, Korea, Singapore, Denmark and Germany, India and Latin America, and led business delegations to the Pacific region and Vietnam.
During his new term he’s tasked with increasing partnerships and delivering the state’s ten-year trade and investment strategy.
Mr McGowan was previously Australia’s Commissioner General to the World Expo in Dubai and has held senior leadership positions and delivered global Defence programs.
Mr McGowan also served in the Royal Australian Navy on operational deployments, including enforcing UN sanctions in the Middle East.
Treasurer Cameron Dick said Mr McGowan’s deep understanding of Australia’s international trade challenges and opportunities made his appointment a huge win for Queensland.
“He has already made a huge impact over his relatively short time in the role, and it’s exciting to think of how many more Queensland businesses he will help land big overseas contracts,” Mr Dick said.
The appointment has also been welcomed byt TIQ Chair Daniel Gschwind.
“Over the past 18 months, Justin has brought his wealth of federal and international experience to Queensland and has worked exceptionally hard to elevate TIQ’s effectiveness and deliver on Queensland’s strategic trade and investment ambitions”.
“Justin has delivered on our highest expectations during that time and has built great relationships with our stakeholders and clients,” he said. “I look forward to Justin’s continued leadership of the organisation on this inspiring journey.”
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