Natural Hazards Research Australia says Andrew Gissing from Risk Frontiers will become CEO starting July 25, taking over from Richard Thornton who announced earlier this year that he would be retiring.

Mr Gissing has more than 15 years emergency management experience and is currently GM – Resilience at Risk Frontiers. Previous roles have included Victorian State Emergency Service Deputy Chief Officer/Director Emergency Management and Communication.

Natural Hazards Research Australia started in July last year, with the mission of delivering usable research and knowledge that creates safer and more resilient communities.

The Federal Government committed to $85 million in funding over 10 years, and with further support provided by states and territories. The organisation has taken over from the Bushfire and Natural Hazards Co-operative Research Centre.

“Natural Hazards Research Australia is at a vital stage after its establishment year and Andrew’s unique blend of skills will ensure that the centre delivers research that supports our partners and ultimately leads to the saving of lives,” Chairman Katherine Woodthorpe said.

“Andrew’s insights into emergency management combined with his research involvement through projects that he led for the Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC will be of huge benefit to the centre.”

Dr Thornton will retire at the end of this month after leading the centre through its establishment year, heading the previous CRC for eight years and steering the research agenda for the past 18 years.