Master Electrician Australia’s President, John Horan, marks the conclusion of his four-year term, with Master Electrician Australia’s Senior Vice President Peter Matthews taking over as his successor.

Mr Horan joined the Master Electrician Australia’s (MEA) board as Councillor in 2013, taking over as MEA President in 2019.

Over the past four years, Mr Horan positioned Master Electricians as a key voice during the worldwide pandemic. His strong leadership saw a remarkable 35% surge in membership growth outside of MEA’s home base in QLD, leading the way in national excellence for the industry with a primary focus on Workplace Health and Safety (WH&S) and the welfare of both members and customers.

“As an industry we’ve become even more robust, agile, and nimble. We’ve leaned in and pivoted,” Horan said, reflecting on the victories of his tenure and the organisation’s increased commitment to continued investment in business tools, products, and services to enhance value for Master Electricians. “I’m pleased to report Master Electricians Australia is in a very healthy state, all thanks to a prudent investment strategy.” This stands as a testament to his adept governance of MEA, highlighting the commitment to future innovation and investment that will further enrich the products and services offered to members.

“I wish to thank the MEAL Board and the MEAQ Council for their effort and commitment. Our Board and Council are made up of members across Australia. They volunteer their time to provide strategic direction, ensuring we continue to deliver the services members need and advocate on behalf of our members on business-critical issues.”

In a noteworthy conclusion, Horan announced the ACCC’s approval of Master Electrician Bronze, Silver, and Gold trademarks, a testament to MEA’s governance rules.

John Horan, also Founder and Group General Manager of Horan & Bird Energy is a passionate entrepreneur and investor, continues contributing to Australia’s electrical sector both in Australia and globally.

Incoming President Peter Matthews paid homage to Horan’s legacy and highlighted the impact of his role as President of MEA.

“John’s leadership has left Master Electricians Australia in a position of strength, and I am honoured to step into this role,” Matthews said.

“I am truly passionate about the industry we are in, I think everyone gets to a point where they have got some runs under their belt and need to give back to the next generation coming through. By being on the board gives me the ability to help steer the direction ensuring we stay relevant to the younger tradies and keep them joining to become Master Electricians,” Matthews said.

Matthews, a prominent figure in the electrical industry and founder of the award-winning business Solar Service Guys looks forward to tackling industry challenges, particularly the skills shortage and the push towards net-zero emissions.

“There’s a renewed focus for MEA on industry challenges and supporting members during this transition, especially the skills shortage and the push for net-zero emissions. Electricians play a pivotal role in the transition to clean energy, and as MEA’s new president, I look forward to partnering with organisations like the Powering Skills Organisation (PSO) to address these shortages,” Matthews said.

He added, “As we navigate the future, my vision for MEA is one of innovation and collaboration. We’ll work tirelessly to empower our members, address industry challenges head-on, and continue the tradition of excellence that MEA is known for.”

“The coming years will see safety remaining a priority, as MEA commits to investing in ME Safety to ensure it continues to set the benchmark at an affordable price for electrical contractors. The Master Program is also set for evolution in line with industry changes.”

The transition in board governance also witnessed council members moving to new roles, and new faces joining the team to steer MEA during this exciting period of innovation and industry growth. MEA congratulates former councillors Sarah Loveday and Leo Ward on their new roles as Senior Vice President and Junior Vice President, respectively, and welcomes new Councillor Robina Samios.

The Master Electrician’s Board now comprises Peter Matthews (President), Brooke McGregor (Treasurer), John Horan (Immediate Past President), Sarah Loveday (Senior Vice President), Leo Ward (Junior Vice President), Owen Blamires (Councillor), Seth Atkinson (Councillor). Ben Haines (Councillor), Michael Saunders (Councillor) and new Councillor Robina Samios.

ENDS