The former Newscorp advertising executive is the first woman to be appointed to the role
Master Builders Queensland has shaken things up with the appointment of the first female deputy CEO in the association’s history.
Sue-Ann Fresneda has been selected as the organisation’s deputy chief executive and will continue to lead the commercial divisions of the association under newly appointed CEO Paul Bidwell.
The appointment of Fresneda in the position follows other changes to the structure of Master Builders in the state, which now boasts a team of general management consisting of almost 50 per cent women.
Fresneda joined Master Builders in 2013 where she was appointed Director of Business Development and Membership following almost two decades at Newscorp where she worked her way up from advertising executive to GM of Operations in Queensland.
Following her appointment, Fresneda says the representation of women across the construction industry is something which needs to continually improve.
“The Queensland construction industry employs around 240,000 people across the state and women account for only around 15 per cent of that and even less amongst those workers ‘on the tools’,” she says.
“While I’m incredibly passionate about hiring the right people for the job, diversity within the industry is something we need to consider – particularly as we stare down the barrel of future skills shortages.”
Master Builders Queensland chief executive Bidwell also commented on the appointment.
“Sue-Ann has certainly earned her stripes since joining the business almost nine years ago. Following a decorated career at Newscorp, she has consistently demonstrated her commercial acumen and just how business savvy she is,” he says.
“Policy and advocacy have long been part of my wheelhouse and it’s really valuable to have another leader who brings a different angle and point of view, but particularly a focus on the commercial side to the business.
“She comes at things from a completely different perspective and that’s a vital ingredient in strong leadership and really important for the longevity and future direction of Master Builders.”