STEVE BURDETTE: Executive Officer, Approved Employers of Australia
Steve is a senior executive with a strong background in agribusiness, ranging from field packing, logistics and marketing to commercialising intellectual property rights, restructuring/mergers and developing extensive national and international contacts and relationships. He is expert in all aspects of horticultural supply chains; from orchard development (including drought mitigation strategies and environmental sustainability) through to market.
His pragmatic experience is complimented by extensive knowledge in R&D tax, chairing a number of national and regional committees including Biosecurity, Fruit Fly, Variety and Rootstock leadership and seasonal worker programs. Steve has previously founded two variety commercialisation companies and formed grower clubs in order to maximise the returns and market opportunities. He is also author and co-author of a number of technical publications.
Steve has participated in the Seasonal Worker Program since the pilot commenced in 2012. His extensive knowledge and experience was gained between 2012 and 2018 in the recruitment, selection, administration, welfare and wellbeing of up to 200 workers from the Pacific region.
Steve has also been a key driver in the formation of the Approved Employers of Australia Ltd, chaired the Association between 2019 and 2021 and is now the Executive Officer.
