Michelle Jablko has been appointed CEO of Australia’s largest toll road operator, Transurban. She steps into the role having spent three years as the company’s CFO, and will replace outgoing CEO Scott Charlton, who will step down in October.
Jablko has previously spent 5 years as CFO at ANZ, and has more than 20 years experience in investment banking and commercial law.
Jablko’s new role has pushed up the share of female CEOs running Australia’s top 20 companies, with her appointment bringing the number up to 6. This number has been boosted significantly over the past year, with the appointments of Vicki Brady at Telstra, Leah Weckert at Coles and Fiona Hick at Fortescue Metals.
“I’m thrilled to be appointed as Transurban’s next CEO and I don’t take the trust placed in me by the Board lightly,” Jablko said on Wednesday.
“Scott is handing over a great business, with a team of people who are passionate about the tangible impact we have in our cities in both Australia and North America, and delivering for our 10 million customers, our partners and investors.
“I look forward to building on this to follow the needs of our cities as they continue to grow.”
Chairman Craig Drummond described Jablko as an excellent leader with the right mix of skills to take on the role.
“I am delighted that the Board has appointed a CEO of Michelle’s calibre, following an extensive global search. Michelle brings a balance of strong leadership, financial acumen, experience in complex transactions, a focus on building relationships with all stakeholders and a sharp strategic mind,” Drummond said.
“I have no doubt that this combination of skills and experience will mean that she is an excellent leader for this next phase of growth for Transurban.”