Naomi Anstess has officially been named the new Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network (NTIBN), following the departure of former CEO Jerome Cubillo.

In a statement, the NTIBN Board praised Mr Cubillo’s leadership since taking the helm in 2020, describing his tenure as “nothing short of exceptional.” “Under his direction, NTIBN grew from a two-person team to a nationally respected advocacy and service delivery organisation, representing more than 400 certified Aboriginal businesses,” they said.

“His work has shifted policy nationally, giving Blak businesses a powerful voice at the highest levels,” the Board added.

Ms Anstess had previously served as chair of NTIBN and stepped in as acting CEO during Mr Cubillo’s leave. During this time, she put her own business on hold, motivated by what the Board described as her “unwavering belief in the cause of NTIBN, Blak Business and Aboriginal economic empowerment.”

Chairman Raymond Pratt confirmed that the Board fully supports Anstess’ continued leadership. “Naomi has the backing and confidence of the NTIBN Board,” he said. “She has demonstrated the vision, the strength, and the leadership needed to take NTIBN into its next phase.”

Initially, the Board intended to appoint Anstess as CEO for a one-year term without advertising the role. However, Anstess advised that the position should be publicly advertised through a transparent, merit-based recruitment process. The Board agreed, describing her recommendation as a testament to her integrity.

“While the Board was prepared to directly appoint her to the role, Naomi’s insistence on running an open and transparent process requesting that the position be advertised, shows the calibre of leader she is,” Mr Pratt said. “Naomi is a fearless and proud advocate for our members. NTIBN is in safe hands, and we are proud to have Naomi continuing to lead the Network while we deliver the next stage of our journey.”

To maintain stability during a key operational period, Ms Anstess has agreed to extend her term by six months. This means she will once again pause her own business in order to continue serving the NTIBN and its members.

While thanking Mr Cubillo for his outstanding contribution, the NTIBN Board said the temporary extension will help ensure continuity as the search for long-term leadership gets underway.