The Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network has confirmed the appointment of Naomi Anstess as its new CEO following the resignation of Jerome Cubillo.
NTIBN said since his appointment to the role in 2020, Mr Cubillo's leadership "has been nothing short of exceptional".
"Under his direction, NTIBN grew from a two-person team to a nationally respected advocacy and service delivery organisation, representing more than 400 certified Aboriginal businesses," the NTIBN Board said.
"His work has shifted policy nationally, giving Blak businesses a powerful voice at the highest levels."
Ms Anstess previously stepped down as NTIBN chair and into the role during Mr Cubillo's leave of absence, putting her own business on hold while driven by her unwavering belief in the cause of NTIBN, Blak Business and Aboriginal economic empowerment.
NTIBN chairman Raymond Pratt said the NTIBN Board remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing Aboriginal economic empowerment, delivering for its members, and securing strong, stable leadership for the future.
"Naomi has the backing and confidence of the NTIBN Board," Mr Pratt said.
"She has demonstrated the vision, the strength, and the leadership needed to take NTIBN into its next phase."
The NTIBN Board's intention had been to immediately appoint her as chief executive officer for a further one year term, however Ms Anstess recommended the role be openly advertised through a transparent, merit-based process to secure stability for the next phase of growth.
Fully supporting Ms Anstess' decision, the Board acknowledged it reflects the high standard of leadership and governance NTIBN expects across the sector.
"While the Board was prepared to directly appoint her to the role, Naomi's insistence on running an open and transparent process requesting that the position be advertised, shows the calibre of leader she is," Mr Pratt said.
"Naomi is a fearless and proud advocate for our members. NTIBN is in safe hands, and we are proud to have Naomi continuing to lead the Network while we deliver the next stage of our journey."
The NTIBN Board said to ensure stability through one of the Network's most critical operational periods, Ms Anstess has accepted a six-month extension to her appointment, once again placing her own business on hold in service to the NTIBN and its members.
While thanking Mr Cubillo for his outstanding contribution, the Board said Ms Anstess' extension will provide the continuity needed to deliver key priorities while the recruitment process is undertaken to secure the Network's long-term leadership.