Luke Menzel has been appointed chief executive of the Energy Efficiency Council, replacing Rob Murray-Leach who has stepped down following an injury in 2014.
The board announced Mr Menzel’s appointment on Thursday, and also said Mr Murray-Leach would stay with the organisation as policy and advocacy executive. Shauna Coffey was also appointed as NSW-based policy and advocacy manager, with a focus on driving the EEC’s work on commercial buildings.
Mr Murray-Leach was founding chief executive from 2009 to 2015, and in his time oversaw many gains in the sector, including:
- tripling annual investment in energy efficiency in government operations
- over $5 billion in grants and financing for the sector, and expansion of state energy efficiency certificate schemes and major reforms to energy markets
- introducing energy efficiency education and certification schemes to Australia
Mr Menzel had filled in as acting chief executive for Mr Murray-Leach in 2014, and had been sector development manager from 2012.
“It has been a real honour to lead the Energy Efficiency Council through some remarkable years for the energy sector,” Mr Murray-Leach said. “We’ve achieved so much more than I dreamed we could, and it’s time to pass the CEO role onto someone new. Luke Menzel has been an outstanding acting CEO, and I know that he’ll take the organisation to the next level.”
EEC President Tony Arnel paid tribute to Mr Murray-Leach’s achievements and said it was great news for the sector that he would stay on to focus on policy.
“I’m also delighted to welcome Luke to the role of CEO,” he said. “He has demonstrated great vision and a deep commitment to the development of the sector. Luke, Rob and Shauna will make a formidable policy team and will really drive the energy debate.”
Mr Menzel said it was an exciting time to be taking over the reins.
“I thank Rob for his inspirational leadership and I’m looking forward to working with him and the rest of the Council team, Board and members to drive smarter energy use in businesses and homes across Australia.”