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Kerryn Caulfield
Advanced Manufacturing Sector Leader
Professional Background
Kerryn Caulfield is a prominent figure in the Australian manufacturing industry, recognized for her extensive experience as a leader, advocate, and board member. As the Executive Manager at Composites Australia and the former COO at Apical International Pty Ltd, Kerryn's contributions to the field are significant and multifaceted. Through her company, Apical International, she has committed herself to advancing Australian manufacturing and supporting social enterprises. With over two decades of leadership experience, Kerryn has a proven track record in senior roles and has been instrumental in promoting the capabilities of Australian manufacturers on a global scale.
Before founding Apical International, Kerryn honed her skills and knowledge through senior international trade positions at the Australian Chamber of Manufactures and various large manufacturing firms. Her career has seen her leading more than 50 international missions dedicated to developing export markets for Australian manufactured goods. This extensive involvement has allowed her to build and maintain a legacy of global contacts, which she diligently continues to foster.
In 1995, Kerryn was honored with the Women’s Achievement Award during International Business Week, recognizing her exceptional contribution to building an export sales portfolio while at Bradmill Textiles. This accolade speaks to her dedication to excellence and capability in the sector.
Education and Achievements
Kerryn's educational background lays the foundation for her extensive professional journey in the manufacturing sector. She has not only bolstered her career through practical experience but has also engaged in continuous learning, networking, and professional development to stay abreast of industry advancements.
Throughout her career, Kerryn has developed long-term working relationships with several key industry organizations, a testament to her reputation and effectiveness in her roles. Her clients include Composites Australia from 2005 to the present, the Technical Textiles and Nonwoven Association from 2000 to 2020, and the Filtration & Separation Association of Australasia from 2011 to 2016, among others. Kerryn's specialization in disseminating technology and best practices in manufacturing has notably transformed the operations and capabilities within these organizations.
Kerryn has managed numerous government programs and initiatives designed to build industrial capability, playing a crucial role in the delivery of over 60 conferences and 200 technology workshops. These programs have significantly benefited from over $20 million in grants, an achievement that highlights her adeptness in securing funding and resources for industry improvement.
Vision and Advocacy
Kerryn Caulfield is not only committed to promoting Australian manufacturing but is also deeply involved in advocacy and policy formulation. Her participation in a wide array of government and industry-driven committees and forums showcases her dedication to shaping the future of the manufacturing landscape at both state and federal levels. Throughout her career, she has conducted numerous industry reviews, developed strategic plans, and performed scoping studies that contribute to crafting policies that support the industry’s growth and sustainability.
In addition to her influential roles, Kerryn has chronicled the successes and challenges faced by industrial companies and their workers through hundreds of articles. Her writing amplifies the voices of those within the sector, fostering a greater understanding of the complexities and innovations in manufacturing industries.
Kerryn’s contributions extend further into ministerial appointments, where she has served on various boards and councils, including the International Fibre Centre, the State of Design Advisory Council, the Asian is Australia Council, and the TCF Action Agenda Advisory Board at the federal level. Her decade-long service on the Board of Australian Alpaca Fleece Limited and the Council of Textiles & Fashion Industries Australia underscores her commitment to advancing these sectors closely.
Achievements
- Women’s Achievement Award: Honored during International Business Week, 1995 for her work in building an export sales portfolio at Bradmill Textiles.
- Long-Term Clients: Successfully served organizations like Composites Australia, Technical Textiles & Nonwoven Association, and the National Association of Charitable Recycling, establishing and maintaining vital industry partnerships.
- Grants Management: Oversaw government initiatives that facilitated over $20 million in grants, significantly impacting the growth and operational capabilities of manufacturing organizations across Australia.
- Policy Influence: Actively participated in forming industrial policies on government committees, driving strategic change within the manufacturing landscape.
Kerryn Caulfield’s career reflects her passion for advancing the manufacturing industry in Australia and supporting social enterprises. Her leadership and advocacy have made her a respected figure in her field, inspiring others within the industry to strive for excellence and innovation in their practices.
