Judy Potter – former CEO of SA Great and currently Chair of the Adelaide Fringe Festival – has been appointed Chair of the new independent management board for the iconic Central Market.
Announced today by Lord Mayor Stephen Yarwood, Judy will lead a five-member Board, bringing with them a mix of food, retail and market expertise as well as property management skills, marketing experience and corporate insight.
“The move aims to improve current operations and ensure the Market remains a vibrant and sustainable part of the city’s landscape,” Stephen said.
“Adelaide City Council is committed to making sure the Central Market continues to be a lively and colourful food mecca, buzzing with life and activity all year round.”
“Judy and the new operating model will bring a fresh and contemporary approach to running and promoting the venue and will ensure it remains competitive with the rest of the food retail industry.”
It will be the first time in history that the Market will be run by a self-governing Board of Directors who will work independently in the best interest of the Market.
“As a passionate market lover I am delighted to be appointed as the inaugural Chair of the Adelaide Central Market Authority,” Judy said.
“My first priority is to engage with traders which will start with a market walk around with the Lord Mayor. My message will be simple; I am committed to ensuring that the Central Market remains the preeminent food destination and experience not only in South Australia but to be recognised internationally.”
The Board’s role will be to oversee and develop the market in line with the Central Market Charter, which has been endorsed by Council and outlines the vision, goals and overall strategic direction of the Market. They will be required to submit a rolling strategic plan and an annual business plan to Council for approval as well as provide Performance Reports on an agreed basis.
Councillor Megan Hender said because Councillors and stall-owners will not be appointed to the Board, it will ensure complete autonomy.
“By having an independent board come in, with an outside perspective, it will mean they can just get on with the job of managing and improving the Market.”
Traders will also have a role in the model through a Trader Advisory Group and the existing Trader Association.
President of the Traders Association Franz Knoll said “It will create a new era for the precinct where all stakeholders will have the same goals and outcomes as the basis of the relationship.”
Council will still maintain ownership of the Market and is aiming to have the four other board members appointed by May and the Authority operating by July 2012.
“This is an exciting new era for the Central Market and one that will ensure the Central Market will prosper and grow well into the future,” said Councillor Houssam Abiad.
The new entity will be established as a subsidiary under section 42 of the Local Government Act 1999 and is subject to Ministerial sign-off.
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