Australian Pipeline Trust (APA) Managing Director Jim McDonald has announced his intention to retire.
His successor will be APA Chief Operating Officer Michael (Mick) McCormack. Mr McCormack was selected after an extensive executive search and will commence duties as chief executive in July.
Mr McCormack who has qualifications in science, engineering and business, has 20 years experience in the oil and gas transmission industry, having commenced his pipeline career in Queensland as an engineer on the Moonie to Brisbane crude oil pipeline. (Please see attached biography).
Mr McCormack is a member of the board of the Australian Pipeline Industry Association and fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Mr McDonald, who has been Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of APA since its listing on the Australian Stock Exchange in June 2000, said he felt the time was right to hand over to a new chief executive.
Reflecting on his time with APA, Mr McDonald noted that, “We have acquired all of the minority interests in our pipelines and diversified risk across our pipeline portfolio.
“We have had four good years of compound growth and I have no reason to doubt it will be five good years, come July.
“APA is positioned as a strong, profitable business with reliable and stable cash flows. Mick has been a key contributor to our success, and I am pleased he has been chosen to lead APA into the future."
APA Chairman, George Bennett praised Mr McDonald’s achievements, “Under Jim’s leadership, APA has delivered strong returns to unitholders and consistent growth in profit.
“In its first four-and-a-half years as a listed entity, APA has consolidated its position as Australia’s leading pipeline company, and expanded its portfolio of pipeline assets.
“APA has a strong, experienced management team and Board and they have helped the Trust to reach and maintain the position of strength it now enjoys in the market.
“I am pleased that the Board has appointed Mick McCormack. He has a thorough understanding of pipelines and the environment in which they operate. APA will be in safe hands.”

George Bennett
Chairman