REIA names new CEO

Rollason is a qualified lawyer, who reportedly brings an extensive background in organisational strategy, governance, insurance, financial management, government relations, policy and lobbying to the position.

Most recently, Rollason served as general manager of Family Day Care Australia, the national peak body for family day care. He has also held positions within the federal government, serving in the Attorney-General’s department and Department of Education, where he managed legislative matters.

Having held positions across Australia and the UK, he was reportedly tapped by the REIA to take up this role, thanks in part to his experience working with member organisations, such as Family Day Care and the Law Society in the UK. He also currently serves on the governance, audit, risk and finance board committee for Dietitians Australia.

In announcing the appointment, REIA president Leanne Pilkington said the organisation was excited to have Rollason take up the job, and paid tribute to Edwards’ stewardship throughout the recruitment process.

“[Edwards’] leadership has been invaluable, and we thank her for her service to the organisation during this transitional stage,” Pilkington said.

Edwards is CEO of the Real Estate Institute of the ACT, a role to which she will now return to. She has been serving in the REIA’s top job since September, when then-CEO Anna Neelagama vacated the position to become chief executive officer at Master Builders ACT.