The MRC Tas Board is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of our organisation and ensuring we meet our long-term goals. The Executive Team, led by the Board, works to implement these strategies, ensuring our operations remain effective, efficient, and aligned with our mission.
Peter Gutwein
Chair
Peter is the former Tasmanian Premier and Treasurer who chose to leave politics recently after a distinguished career serving the people of Tasmania.
He has over 20 years’ experience in the Parliament of Tasmania representing the needs of Tasmanians. As a former Premier, Treasurer and senior Minister he understands our community and the economic and social challenges we face, as well as the opportunities that abound here in Tasmania.
As a member of the National Cabinet, he was one of the 8 State and Territory leaders who, along with the Prime Minister set the broader national policy response to the pandemic.
A former migrant himself arriving in Tasmania with his parents at four years of age he understands the richness that diverse backgrounds and different cultures bring to our state, as well as the challenges that new arrivals face.
He is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (MAICD), a company director and was a senior manager and a qualified financial planner prior to entering the Parliament. He enjoys spending time with his family and enjoys Australian rules football, reading and staying fit.
George Elkhair
Vice Chair
George holds a Bachelor of Commerce and is a Fellow of both the Australian Institute of Company Directors and CPA Australia.
An experienced executive director with more than 35 years in commerce and business leadership, George currently serves on several boards and subcommittees across community-based organisations and private companies. He is deeply engaged in mentoring, supporting Tasmanian businesses, and guiding emerging leaders through his advisory and community roles.
Born in Egypt, George migrated to Australia as a child with his family. He joined the Board in April 2022 and is a strong advocate for migrant causes in Tasmania. George takes an active interest in advancing the Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania’s mission and supporting programs that deliver positive, migrant-focused outcomes.
A well-connected entrepreneur, George applies value-based leadership to drive social impact and sustainable outcomes. His strong governance mindset underpins his contribution to strategy, culture, diversity, ESG, and sustainability. He firmly believes collaboration between government, business, community, and stakeholders is essential to achieving lasting positive change.
Outside his professional commitments, George values time with family, is involved in cultural events and maintains a keen interest in sport.
Fahim Chowdhury
Treasurer
Fahim joined the Board in November 2020. He is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Fahim is a senior executive at a government business enterprise. He has experience as a non-executive director across a number of community based organisations and is currently on the board of a bank as an intern director. Originally from Bangladesh, he has a keen interest in Tasmania’s multicultural society. He is a passionate social cricketer and devotes his spare time towards the development of the game.
Daniela Ruiz
Secretary
Daniela is from Patagonia, Chile, and has lived in Australia since 2012. She has a Master’s in International Sustainable Tourism Management from Monash University and a Bachelor’s in Journalism and Marketing. She has eight years of experience in communications, marketing, and tourism, having worked in Tourism Tasmania for the past three years. More recently, Daniela joined the Department of State Growth as a Project Manager, Tourism. Daniela has extensive experience managing diverse projects, including training, development, operations, volunteer programs, and marketing partnerships, working with people from diverse backgrounds. Daniela has also worked in international student recruitment and as an international student ambassador. Daniela has worked in local council and state Government, bringing critical skills to the Board. Being a recent migrant and having lived experience as one, Daniela is committed to supporting the migrant community in Tasmania. Daniela loves the outdoors – especially waterfalls and sunsets – pasta, and a good glass of vino (Tassie Pinot is always her first choice).
Iha Diwan Patney
Board Member
Iha is a Senior Strategy Manager at the University of Tasmania, driving institutional societal impact, strategic planning, and insights. She implements a place-based, impact-led approach to the university’s strategy, aiming for better outcomes for Tasmania. With a Masters in International Development from Monash University, Iha’s passion for the international community arises from her diverse upbringing in Benin, New Zealand, India, and Australia. Through her personal experiences and working directly with communities, she understands the challenges and strengths of being a migrant. Iha strongly advocates for multiculturalism and promotes diversity in Tasmania, believing that we all contribute to its dividends. Committed to social inclusion, she strives for equal access to resources and connections that enhance well-being and productivity. Iha believes that caring, confident, and resilient individuals and communities are essential for preventing exclusion
With over a decade of consulting experience, Iha excels at connecting people and organisations and bringing their ideas to life. Her passion lies in transforming insights into action, and she actively seeks diverse perspectives and stories. Iha’s curious nature drives her to empower individuals and foster collaboration to solve complex problems.
Ruth Chalk
Board Member
Ruth grew up on a sheep and cattle station in Southwest Queensland and moved to Tasmania after university. She is CEO of a not-for-profit organisation supporting and employing people with disability.
Ruth, a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, holds a Bachelor of Speech Therapy and masters’ degrees in Health Services Management and Business Administration.
Ruth’s values-based and purpose-driven approach to life has led her to serve on a number of community and not-for-profit boards and committees. She is honoured to have the opportunity to serve on the board of MRC Tasmania.
Chris Stennard
Board Member
Chris joined MRC Tas as a Board Member in 2015. Chris is a Fellow of CPA Australia. He has experience in the manufacturing, service, IT, insurance, and banking sectors. He is interested in social and community issues.
To communicate with the MRC Tas Board please email board@mrctas.org.au