One of the City of Stonnington’s most iconic destinations, the Prahran Market is a major economic and social hub that attracts more than 2.5 million visitors each year.
Established in 1864, Prahran Market is a major community asset that is owned by the City of Stonnington and governed by an independent Board of Directors. This arrangement ensures that day-to-day operations of Prahran Market are independent from Council and informed by Board members with extensive experience.
As the terms of current Board members were due to expire, the City of Stonnington has gone through an extensive recruitment process to appoint new members, who were confirmed by Councillors on 15 November.
City of Stonnington Mayor, Cr Jami Klisaris, said the new Board will position Prahran Market for an exciting future as Melbourne’s premier food market.
“Prahran Market is the ‘food lovers market’ and is a crucial part of our Chapel Street precinct.
“These appointments follow an extensive process and Board members have been successful because of their skills and expertise. These were highly sought after roles and I congratulate the Board members for their appointments.
“I’m particularly excited about the appointment of Kate O’Sullivan as Chair and Non-Executive Director and the incredible experience she brings to the role to build on the strong platform the outgoing Board members leave. The Market’s future is in very good hands.
“I’d also like to thank the outgoing Board members: Samantha Winter, Ian Webb and Brian Morris who have provided oversight and stewardship of Prahran Market throughout their respective terms,” said Cr Klisaris.
Prahran Market General Manager, Simon Ward, agrees that the new Board will bring some exciting expertise to the Market.
“Prahran Market has been very lucky to have Boards who bring a great deal of experience and governance to the table over the years. I would like to thank the outgoing Board members, who not only have assisted in developing strategies for the future of the Market, but helped us navigate a very difficult almost two years during the COVID pandemic.
“We are excited that the new Board members have a breadth of experience that will enhance the work that has already been done and continue to ensure a bright future for Melbourne’s premier food Market,” said Mr Ward.
Board appointments are for three years starting 1 December 2021, bios of Board members are below.
Kate O’Sullivan, Chair and Non-Executive Director
Experienced executive and board member with a demonstrated history of working in the sports, racing and entertainment and hospitality industries. Skilled in strategy development, executive coaching, sales and marketing management, budgeting and commercial operations and business planning.
Andrew Hockley, Non-Executive Director
An economist by training with deep experience in the private and public sectors covering marketing, retail and media, placemaking, and community and stakeholder engagement at a senior executive level.
Megan French-Wright, Non-Executive Director
Strategic thinking investment professional with more than a decade of experience in retail management, leasing, investment and development, with a passion for food retail and community places. Experienced in retail strategy, leading multi-disciplinary teams and working within the highly regulated institutional investment field.
Bella Kratz, Non-Executive Director
Senior leader with 20 years international experience in brand strategy and positioning, marketing strategy, luxury retail, e-commerce, international trade and business consulting, who has worked with iconic global and luxury consumer brands and advised numerous businesses on the cusp of growth about how to scale effectively.
Kandi Straker, Non-Executive Director
A strategic leader with over 25 years of marketing experience. With a customer centric and problem solving mindset who has undertaken key operational and leadership roles within ASX listed and APRA regulated organisations.
