APPEA’s Executive team is based in office locations across Australia.
Andrew McConville
Chief Executive
Andrew has more than 25 years international experience across a range of industries and with government in advocacy, policy, corporate affairs and commercial operations. Before joining APPEA in April 2019 he spent a decade with global agribusiness Syngenta, in external affairs and communications.
Damian Dwyer
Deputy Chief Executive
Damian is responsible for APPEA's economic, trade, climate and energy markets analysis and policies. His 25-year public policy career includes positions as an economist at another industry association and in the Australian Public Service.
Sarah Browne
Director Public Affairs
Sarah is responsible for APPEA’s broader community and stakeholder engagement program. Previously a senior advisor to Premiers and Ministers, Sarah most recently worked with a global consultancy specialising in public affairs campaigns.
Julie Hood
Director Events and Member Relations
Julie joined APPEA in 2001 after working for several years at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. She is responsible for delivering top-quality oil and gas industry events, in particular the APPEA Conference & Exhibition.
Keld Knudsen
Director Northern Territory and Exploration
Keld is experienced in policy, communications and government relations with an in-depth understanding of the upstream petroleum industry, energy markets and related policy issues.
Georgy Mayo
Director Queensland
Georgy most recently worked as the Director Resource Policy for the Queensland Resources Council as well as a Director of the Queensland Exploration Council. She has also previously worked for Origin Energy.
Jason Medd
Director Environment, Health and Safety
Jason is responsible for APPEA’s Environment, Health and Safety policy and advocacy. His 20-year career includes senior positions within government petroleum policy and reform, the petroleum industry and advocacy.
Simon Staples
Director Commercial
Simon has over 12 years of experience across the Australian Tax Office and Commonwealth Treasury. In recent roles as Senior Director at the ATO, Simon led the ATO’s energy and resources industry strategy, assurance and audit teams.
Ashley Wells
Director Government Relations
Ashley has 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors, including senior roles in business, industry associations and federal politics. He has worked for senior ministers, shadow ministers and was previously at FCAI.