Defence industry expert and diversity and inclusion advocate Christine Zeitz has been appointed as President of the CEDA SA-NT State Advisory Council (SAC) and as a member of CEDA’s Board of Directors.

CEDA Chairman, Diane Smith-Gander AO said Zeitz’s 30 plus years in corporate Australia, combined with her work as a diversity and inclusion advocate, is perfectly aligned with CEDA’s purpose.

CEDA’s purpose is to improve the lives of Australians by enabling a dynamic economy and vibrant society by bringing together business, government, academia and community organisations.

“The depth of experience and expertise on CEDA’s Board is exceptional and Ms Zeitz’s appointment is a great addition,” Smith-Gander said.

“As a not-for-profit, our ability to attract an appointment of this calibre highlights the strength of CEDA’s place in the public policy landscape.

“CEDA will deliver significant work in 2022 on migration, business competitiveness, ESG, public interest technology, and human services, to name a few.

“I look forward to the valuable contribution Ms Zeitz will make.”

Zeitz said she was delighted to support CEDA’s work and ensure South Australian and Northern Territory perspectives were strongly represented within CEDA.

“Having a strong independent policy voice in Australia such as CEDA, that can draw together diverse perspectives to progress solutions, is incredibly important, particularly in these uncertain times,” she said.

“As a proud South Australian I am looking forward to advocating on behalf of CEDA SA and NT members on the issues most important to them.”

Zeitz is currently General Manager, Asia Pacific at Northrop Grumman. She has over 30 years’ experience across the Asia-Pacific region in defence, security, ICT and intelligence.

She has previously held leadership roles with Leidos Australia, Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems Australia and is currently Deputy Chair of SBS Australia and a board member of the Port Adelaide Football Club. Ms Zeitz is also a champion of workplace diversity and a passionate advocate for women in national security.

Christine Zeitz replaces Miriam Silva who retired from the CEDA Board in late 2021 after six years and two terms.

“Ms Silva was a passionate supporter for South Australia and a true champion and supporter of the importance of diversity and inclusion and social justice. These are big shoes to fill but I have no doubt Ms Zeitz is the right person to take up this challenge,” Ms Smith-Gander said.

CEDA State Advisory Councils comprise a diverse group of leaders from business, academia and government who provide advice to CEDA on local priorities and perspectives on national issues. The president of each council also sits on CEDA’s Board ensuring strong representation and insight of state and territory issues.