Tom Murphy: Chief Executive Officer

Tom is currently Chief Executive Officer of WRI and has held this position since its inception in February 1999.   Tom’s particular expertise is in regional economics and labour markets, but he has published in a wide range economic subject areas in refereed and non-refereed articles, books and textbooks.  Tom has a high local media profile in Western NSW for economic and social commentary and also features regularly on national radio particularly in connection to the quarterly agribusiness survey conducted for Westpac Australia wide. 

Tom has previously held academic positions as senior lecturer in Economics and Director of the Regional Economics Research Unit in the Faculty of Commerce, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst and positions at the University of New England and Macquarie University. He has also held the positions of Economic Analyst with the Office of National Assessments in Canberra, with responsibility for the ASEAN economies and Senior Consultant with KPMG Peat Marwick Management Consultants.

 

Kathy Sloan : Research Manager

Kathy is research manager of the WRI and is an experienced researcher in both the private and public sectors. Kathy provides project management across the WRI projects. Kathy’s strengths lie in conducting community surveys, data analysis and information communication technology. Her experience in private consultancy and the Planning and Audit Division of CSU provides a strong background in project management and quality assurance.

 

 

 

 

Lesley Arthur: Senior Research Officer

Lesley is an experienced researcher in the areas of tourism, property development and economic development. Prior to joining WRI, Lesley was a director with KPMG Peat Marwick Management Consultants in Australia and Malaysia. Lesley is skilled in the construction and application of market forecasting and financial models and brings a wealth of experience to WRI projects.

 

 

 

Danielle Ranshaw: Senior Research Officer

Danielle’s experience in project management in the information technology sector combined with qualifications economic and finance provide a solid background for WRI projects. Danielle recently joined the WRI after coordinating the Study Link program for Charles Sturt University. Danielle’s skills in business and systems analysis, performance planning and review, and project planning make her a valued member of the WRI team.

 

 

 

Rachel Somerville: Research Officer

Rachel has a strong focus on regional and rural Australia  with a particular interest in agribusiness. Prior experience in regional media, agriculture and hospitality industries brings a sound understanding of the unique needs of regional business to her role at WRI. Rachel’s strengths lie with survey design, administration and sampling, which have been supplemented by study with the Australian Bureau of Statistics and Australian Marketing and Social Research Society.

 

 

 

 

Dale Rogers: Executive Officer

Dale began at the WRI as a fieldwork supervisor and has worked on several community and business surveys. Dale holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and majored in Anthropology and International Relations. With experience in the retail and communications sectors, Dale brings strong organisational skills and a vibrant personality to the WRI.