CEO Announcement: June 2026
04 Jun 2026 / Melbourne Royal News
It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to step down as Chief Executive of Melbourne Royal, effective 31 August 2026.
I am most grateful for the generous offer the Melbourne Royal Board presented to me to continue as Chief Executive for another term, however, I have decided to graciously decline the opportunity. I sincerely thank the Board for their ongoing trust and confidence in my leadership.
After careful consideration and consultation with my wife and daughter, I have decided it is time for me to transition into semi-retirement.
This decision reflects both my personal circumstances and my great confidence in the highly experienced team now at Melbourne Royal, who will continue to build on the organisation’s strong foundations.
It was back in April 2008 that I joined the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria, and was appointed Chief Executive in November 2019. Over the past 18 years and particularly during my tenure as Chief Executive, I have truly valued the opportunity to work and collaborate with talented and committed people to contribute positively to the organisation’s brand, reputation, culture and ongoing success.
Serving as Chief Executive at Melbourne Royal has been a great privilege. I am deeply grateful for the support, trust, and collaboration I have received from everyone involved and affiliated with Melbourne Royal – particularly the Board, wonderful volunteers, members, exhibitors, and dedicated employees.
I have been incredibly proud to lead a fabulous team of people at Melbourne Royal and have highly valued and appreciated their pride, passion, support and commitment in delivering world-class events, awards and venues. I sincerely thank the Executive Leadership team and all the staff who have contributed to the many achievements and highlights during my tenure as Chief Executive.
Over the coming months, I will remain fully committed to my responsibilities as Chief Executive and work with the Board to ensure a smooth and orderly leadership transition. Further details regarding succession will be communicated in due course.
In closing, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead this remarkable organisation – it’s been a great honour. My tenure at Melbourne Royal for over 18 years has provided my family and I with much joy and has been the catalyst for forming wonderful friendships.
With your involvement and support of Melbourne Royal, together we have built a highly respected and valued brand renowned for being the Cultivator of Happiness – I trust this will continue to be the case in the future.
Thank you again for your continued support. I look forward to seeing many of you before my tenure as Melbourne Royal Chief Executive officially concludes on 31 August 2026.
Brad Jenkins
Chief Executive
Melbourne Royal