An international expert and former head of the Welsh Government’s trade and investment body has been appointed Chief Executive of South Australia’s new investment agency.

Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith said Michael Hnyda brings a wealth of global experience to the role including an unrivalled track-record in delivering major investments for Wales.

“I congratulate Mr Hnyda on his appointment as the Chief Executive of South Australia’s newly established investment and attraction agency, which will attract new and growth industries to boost the economy and create jobs,” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

“For more than a decade, he has led teams responsible for attracting the largest investment projects to Wales, including Amazon, Ford, Quinn Group, Toyota Gorsai, Intertissue Ltd and Glen Dimplex.

“Mr Hnyda also led the delivery of the Welsh Government’s international engagement strategy to support an increase in trade, exports growth and job creation.”

Mr Hnyda said his focus will be on promoting South Australia to global investors to deliver new jobs, investment and opportunities for the State.

“I am delighted to be appointed Chief Executive of the state’s new investment attraction agency, Mr Hnyda said.

“I look forward to working with the Minister, the agency’s Chairman Rob Chapman, and new team to make it one of the best investment arms in the world.”

Mr Chapman said he welcomes Mr Hnyda’s appointment, which brings a dynamic and result-oriented expert in Foreign Direct Investment to South Australia.

“I look forward to working with Mr Hnyda to strengthen and coordinate our investment and promotion activities to capitalise on major opportunities with a focus on creating jobs here in the state,” Mr Chapman said.

Earlier this year, the Economic Development Board recommended the establishment of a new investment body based on international best-practice models in Singapore and Ireland.

Wales was one of the first countries in the world top set up an international inward investment division in 1983 and opened its first overseas office in Japan in 1985. Mr Hnyda was part of the team when it was established.

The State Government agency will oversee a 15 million dollar investment fund, which will be available to companies looking to expand their operations or to establish a presence in South Australia, which will lead to new job opportunities.

Mr Hnyda will commence his role on 1 October 2015.