Held on the 18th Jun 2019
at 6pm to
7:30pm
Could the Liferaft Systems Australia story be a model for the future of niche manufacturing in Tasmania and elsewhere in Australia and what are the implications for the nation’s international trade relations and related policy development?
Managing Director Mike Grainger’s presentation will include an audio visual summary of Liferaft Systems Australia and its products. He will also provide an insight into the company’s international customer base and its market experiences.
Mike is well placed to make observations that could be beneficial to companies seeking new opportunities in their sectors, and what in his experience would be the factors they need to consider in their planning for entry into international markets and ongoing business operation.
About the Speaker
Tasmanian Mike Grainger is the Managing Director of Liferaft Systems Australia (LSA), the Tasmania-based manufacturer of Marine Evacuation Systems and large capacity life rafts for the international passenger ferry, mega yacht and defence markets. Its global exports account for 95% of turnover.
Mike has more than 30 years’ experience in the marine manufacturing industry. His positions and leadership roles in the State are extensive and include being a founding member of the Tasmania Maritime Network and a Director to the Tasmania Development Board (2004-2014).
Mike is currently a member of the DNVGL International Ferry Committee, active in the implementation of improved regulations for the International Maritime Organization regarding international ferry safety standards. Appointed to the TT-Line Board of Directors in 2005 he has been Chairman since February 2012. In early 2018 Mike signed the contract for the replacement of the Spirit of Tasmania ferries, the largest financial state infrastructure project in Tasmanian government history.
His past positions include as Chairman of the Board of Interferry, an international shipping association consisting of over 200 member organizations from 35 countries.
Until March 2019, Mike was Chairman of the Brand Tasmania Council.
Mike is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors; a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management and in 2003 was awarded the Australian Government Centenary Medal for services to Marine Manufacturing.
He has competed as a professional and represented Australia in many international grand prix sailing events, and he has also been an accredited Australian Yachting Federation sailing coach.
Mike Grainger is also the Honorary Consul for Uruguay in Hobart, with jurisdiction throughout Tasmania.
Refreshments from 5.30pm.
