2019 Leadership Dialogue Honoree

“Mark embodies clear understanding of and commitment to our mission and is attuned to the mutuality principal”

The Hon Mark Vaile AO is the 2019 Leadership Dialogue Honoree. For many years, Mark has been a regular participant in the Australian American Leadership Dialogue. With 2011 Leadership Dialogue Honoree, Former US trade representative, Bob Zoellick, Mark formed a formidable partnership, to successfully negotiate the Free-Trade Agreement between our countries. It is fitting that we paid tribute to Bob Zoellick in 2011 and that we are honouring Mark as we return to Perth this August. Mark is widely respected in the United States.

Through the years as an AALD delegate, Trade Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Leader of the Federal National Party and of investment missions to the USA, Mark has made a huge impact on the bilateral relationship. His enormous influence continues. In addition to his operational effectiveness, Mark is one of the more astute strategic thinkers among Australian leaders; with the ability to communicate clearly and carry others with him. His understated manner belies his inner strength, which is obvious to those of us on the AALD Board, where Mark is Chairman.

Mark appreciates, better than most, that it is imperative that Australians comport themselves as peers to their US counterparts, notwithstanding the asymmetry of the Australia-US relationship.

Like other Leadership Dialogue Honorees, Mark embodies clear understanding and commitment to our mission and is attuned to the mutuality principle, whereby national interests of both our countries and the welfare of all our citizens are advanced. We are delighted and privileged to have the opportunity to pay our collective tribute to Hon Mark Vaile AO as the 2019 Leadership Dialogue Honoree.