Dr James Johnson, CEO Geoscience Australia, has developed and implemented innovative programs in resources exploration, national spatial information infrastructure, disaster risk management and environmental management that are having significant impact across Australia and internationally. Dr Johnson is passionate about achieving greater diversity and inclusiveness in Geoscience Australia including engagement and training of indigenous Australians. This passion and his skills and success in bridging the divide between applied research and government policy development will be invaluable to the ongoing work of ATSE.