Congratulations to Dr Susanna Driessen who has been appointed as Tasmania’s new Chief Plant Protection Officer (CPPO).
Dr Driessen commenced working with Biosecurity Tasmania at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) on Monday 1 July 2024.
As Chief Plant Protection Officer, Dr Driessen will be part of the Plant Biosecurity and Diagnostics Branch, responsible for decision-making in the development and maintenance of the state’s biosecurity system, which includes emergency responses and responsibility for representation at a state and national level.
Dr Driessen has most recently been with Plant Health Australia, where she held the position of General Manager for Emergency Response for 12 years.
Dr Driessen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to NRE Tas which will help guide biosecurity in Tasmania in the years to come as the state faces new challenges from pests and diseases.
Dr Driessen takes over in the CPPO role from Andrew Bishop who officially retired from the Tasmanian State Service in late April 2024, after 36 years of service.
NRE Tas once again welcomes Dr Driessen.