Staff

James McKee

Chief Executive Officer & Director of Regional Development

James is the CEO and Director of Regional Development for Regional Development Australia – Tasmania.

James has held a wide variety of senior professional and board positions across a range of sectors, most recently leading the Innovation and Performance Team at the City of Launceston, previously as the Director of Northern Transformation for the University of Tasmania, CEO of NRM North and Director of Northern Cities for the State Government along with board roles including the Chair of Tourism Northern Tasmania, AusCycling Tasmania, Anglicare Tasmania and Chair of the Launceston Airport CACG. James has a particular interest in regional development, innovation and strategy. His primary background is in agricultural science, he is a graduate of the Australian Rural Leadership Murray Darling Basin Program and has been part of community development programmes in the USA and India.

Abby Trapnell

Business Manager

Abby plays an integral role at RDA Tasmania as the Business Manager. From managing logistics to organising events, she is the go-to person for all things RDA Tasmania. Abby’s role is multifaceted providing full support to the CEO and Board, smooth operation of our office, and as the Project Manager for key initiatives that support industry and stakeholders. Abby operates at the highest level when managing projects, many of which are public facing and high profile. In her spare-time you will find Abby with her husband and daughter enjoying what Tasmania has to offer.

Jen Newman

Regional Development Coordinator - South (Deputy CEO)

Jen joined Regional Development Australia - Tasmania in January 2011.

She brings twenty years experience from public sector, government agency and business development roles, with specific expertise in project management, relationship building, business facilitation and planning.

With a background in business and economic development, Jen enjoys working in a small and dynamic organisation with the flexibility to respond to issues as they arise.

Anna Williams

Regional Development Coordinator - North

Meet Anna Williams, a seasoned Economic Development and Town Planning professional with a keen interest in tourism, marketing, agritourism, and business development strategies. Anna's career is driven by a passion for fostering community growth and sustainable development. 

With a positive and proactive approach, she consistently seeks innovative solutions to challenges and is known for her inquisitive nature. Anna thrives on collaborative efforts and is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the communities she serves. Her diverse skill set and community-oriented mindset make her a valuable asset in driving positive change and fostering economic vitality wherever she goes.

Annie Gatenby

Regional Development Coordinator - North West

Introducing Annie, who has over a decade of experience deeply embedded in the startup ecosystem. She's proficient as a product designer, solution builder, and design thinking facilitator. Annie's ventures mirror her commitment to developing products, fostering communities, and establishing sustainable businesses.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Annie is committed to cultivating vibrant communities, recognising them as vital centres for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. She strongly advocates for the mutual growth of businesses and communities, underscoring their interconnectedness and symbiotic relationship.