Jon Watts, Chair of the BEST Employment Ltd Board, has announced his retirement, effective from the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Jon Watts has been an integral part of BEST Employment since its inception. Starting his association with the original Sapphire City Youth Committee in 1978, Jon subsequently joined the committee of CYSS in 1984 and became chair, a position he held through the Skillshare days and the transition to an incorporated entity, BEST Employment in 1997.

Drawing on over 25 years of experience as a solicitor and prior work in social welfare delivery, Jon’s extensive legal and social welfare expertise has been invaluable to BEST’s Board.

Beyond his contributions to BEST Employment, Jon has been deeply involved in numerous community activities and held executive positions in various organisations, including the Inverell Harness Racing Club, Inverell Women’s Refuge, and McLean Care. His dedication to community service was recognised nationally in 2024 when he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

Jon’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the direction and success of BEST Employment Ltd. His commitment to excellence and community support has left an indelible mark on the organisation and the sectors it serves.

In addition to his professional achievements, Jon enjoys woodworking, breeding parrots, and harness racing. He has been generous with both his woodworking pieces and his time, contributing to various community initiatives.

His involvement with the Inverell Showground Trust and the Inverell Show Society, where he could be seen serving behind the bar on show days, exemplifies his dedication to community engagement.
While Jon and his wife Robyn have moved to Western Australia, leaving behind his parrots and tools, his legacy within the community and at BEST Employment will endure.

The Board of BEST Employment welcomed two new members during the past year, and while it is unlikely that a third new member will be sought, the Board will elect a replacement Chair from within their membership, ensuring a smooth transition and continued dedication to the organisation’s mission of assisting individuals and communities in reaching their full potential.

Media Release: BEST Employment