Former Department of Premier and Cabinet CEO Nick Reade lands top job at RAA

Nick Reade, who was once SA’s highest-ranking public servant and Steven Marshall’s right-hand man, has taken a new CEO job.

High-flying corporate leader Nick Reade is back in the driver’s seat as the new chief executive of the RAA.

The former chief executive of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, chief executive of BankSA and Westpac general manager for SA, NT and WA takes over from Ian Stone, who is retiring after 15 years in charge.

Mr Reade will be just the sixth CEO of the RAA in almost 120 years when he starts on August 1.

RAA president and chair Peter Siebels said he was thrilled to welcome Mr Reade to the RAA with its 1200-strong workforce and 780,000 members.

“We’re looking forward to working closely with him to build on RAA’s commercial success, proud history and culture for the next generation of employees, members and partners,” he said.

Nick Reade

“RAA has an exciting future as we build on our success in mobility, insurance, travel and tourism – we’re developing new business opportunities and boosting our innovation capability.”

Mr Siebels described Mr Reade as a transformational leader and notes he joins the RAA as it rolls out the state’s first EV charging network with 536 power points at 140 locations and rapidly expands its solar and battery business.

“Nick’s leadership will be invaluable on this journey as we continue to invest in new digital and data to improve the experience for our members and employees,” he said.

“Nick brings highly sought-after leadership experience in the delivery of large-scale technology solutions and development of customer-centric products and services.”

Mr Siebels welcomed Mr Reade’s experience in rapid deployment of technology-led services, including the state’s Covid-19 home quarantine app, which was adopted by other states.

“It was incredibly important to the board to find another great leader who shares RAA’s values, culture, and commitment to improving the lives of members and the community,” he said.

“Mr Reade is a proud South Australian chief executive, adviser and director with nearly 30 years’ experience in financial services, data and digital technology, marketing and executive leadership.’’

The RAA is SA’s largest member-based organisation with income of $524m in 2021-22.