Prominent resources sector lobbyist Rebecca Tomkinson has been appointed WA’s next agent general, a high-profile trade role which will see her relocate to London.
Prominent resources sector lobbyist Rebecca Tomkinson has been appointed WA’s next agent general, a high-profile trade role which will see her relocate to London.
Premier Roger Cook announced the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia boss was set to serve as the state’s next agent general for the UK and Europe.
She will take on the trade-centric, investment attraction and representational role from mid-July. She succeeds career public servant in the health sector, Angela Kelly, who served a nine-month term designed to weather the last election cycle.
The high-profile role was previously held by John Langoulant, a prominent Perth businessman and professional director who has sat on the boards of numerous WA companies and government agencies.
The agent general role is widely considered one of the most high-profile and well paid international gigs within the state government, and is accompanied with a hefty taxpayer-funded salary package and travel perks.
“Ms Tomkinson has demonstrated significant leadership and policy expertise across a range of industry sectors that are vital to the state’s economic development,” Mr Cook said.
“The UK and Europe are critical to the diversification and decarbonisation of our state’s economy, with strong interests in a number of sectors including energy, mining and particularly defence industries.
"Ms Tomkinson will be based in London. The London office is responsible for developing and implementing strategic migration strategies to the UK to source skilled workers such as builders, tradies, health professionals and teachers.”
As agent general, Ms Tomkinson will take home an annual salary will be $365,000, according to Mr Cook, and will be entitled to a three-bedroom apartment in London costed at $9,250 pounds per month.
Mr Cook said the conditions around travel entitlements had been tightened in the wake of the reports on Mr Langoulant travel expenses.
Mr Langoulant had an annual salary of $376,560 and allowances north of $100,000.
His total annual remuneration package came in at $534,833.
Mr Cook said there was a review of the salary component for the role, with the other entitlements consistent with the other trade commissioners.
Commenting on her appointment, Ms Tomkinson said she was honoured to take on the role of agent general and proud of her time at CME.
“It has been a privilege to lead CME and work alongside such a dedicated team and committed industry,” she said.
“Western Australia plays a unique and critical role on the global stage, and I look forward to continuing to champion our state’s strengths, capability, and ambition through this new role."
Chamber president and Rio Tinto executive Simon Trott said the appointment was a testament to Ms Tomkinson's leadership and commitment to the economic and social development of WA.
“Rebecca is a respected industry leader who has led CME with a strong focus on strategic relationships,” he said.
“She has strengthened CME’s voice as the peak body for WA's resources sector, broadened our engagement with stakeholders, and helped elevate the industry’s role in shaping WA and the nation’s future.”
