The Gillard Labor government has appointed a designated textile, clothing and footwear (TCF) supplier advocate to aid manufacturers in the sector to compete and succeed in local and global markets.
The announcement, made by Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr, identified Tony Quick – an “expert in international business development and management” – as the new TCF supplier advocate.
Supplier advocates generally provide leadership to targeted industry sectors to promote Australian suppliers in the government procurement market and enhance industry competitiveness.
Carr said the position, created is part of the government's $8.2 million Supplier Advocate programme, would help grow the TCF industry, with Quick set to champion local TCF firms at home and abroad.
As TCF supplier advocate Mr Quick will work closely with the TCF Industries Innovation Council, unions, industry and Enterprise Connect. Together they will promote and showcase Australian industry capabilities, help local industry to be competitive and champion supply chain development activities.
“The TCF industries employ more than 45,000 workers nationally and underpin regional economies around the country,” senator Carr said.
“Mr Quick brings a wealth of international and local experience to the role. He currently chairs the Defence Materials Technology Centre, advises my department on defence industry innovation and is a member of the Future Manufacturing Industry Innovation Council. I am confident that Mr Quick’s experience and strong understanding of manufacturing industries will help him boost TCF industry competitiveness and promote the capabilities of Australian firms in key markets.”
Carr also said that Quick's recent experience implementing a continuous improvement culture within defence supply chains means he is “acutely aware of the barriers Australian manufacturers face in winning business and investing in innovation”.