Denita Wawn has been named as the new chief executive officer of Master Builders Australia, becoming the first female in that role in the organisation’s 127-year history.

The board of Master Builders Australia announced the appointment, taking effect on March 20.

She succeeds Wilhelm Harnisch, who is stepping down from the role of CEO after 15 years at the helm and a 26-year involvement with the lobby group, which represents the $200 billion Australian building and construction industry.

In announcing Mrs Wawn’s appointment, Master Builders national president Dan Perkins said, “The Board is confident that Mrs Wawn’s leadership will see the implementation of its vision for Master Builders as a modern, credible and influential national voice for its more than 32,000 members..

“Denita has impeccable credentials for success including her wealth of experience spearheading game changing advocacy and industrial relations campaigns at the National Farmers Federation (NFF), and the Australian Hotels Association (AHA).

“As CEO of the Brewers Association of Australia and New Zealand, Denita implemented a highly successful reputational change strategy at a national and international level.”

Mrs Wawn has spent the past 12 months as general manager operations at Master Builders.

“The board is excited by Mrs Wawn’s leadership, her strong grasp of the factors which drive success in industry associations, and her passionate commitment for standing up for the interests of members,” Mr Perkins said.