NATIONAL:The Council of Textile & Fashion Industries of Australia (TFIA) has appointed two new executives to its team as part of a six month program of reform.
TFIA executive director Jo Kellock said the council was building a team which could lead members into new markets and provide a higher level of service.
"The reform will be ongoing with rebranding activity in the new year. We urge all of our members to take advantage of the combined experience of our team. In the current economic climate, the TFIA can be a valuable tool for business."
Julie Sammartino has been appointed to the role of Industry Training Advisor while Andreas Schimkus is now the Senior Industry Advisor/Program Manager.
Sammartino joined the council with a Master in Knitwear from Florence and ten years experience in the Italian fashion industry. She had worked in all aspects of design, including a stint with UK designer Vivienne Westwood. Her role at the TFIA involved ensuring Australia's training was world class and aligned to the needs of the industry.
Schimkus boasted four years experience working in the Asian market for European footwear brands and an "intimate" knowledge of German production standards. He would advise TFIA on policy, develop and manage various programs and assist members with market research.