Damien Moriarty named as Master Builders NT chief executive

Master Builders NT have picked a local to head their organisation as they head into a new era. Read who it is.

Territorian Damien Moriarty has been appointed chief executive of Master Builders Northern Territory.

The lawyer, builder and business owner’s appointment was ratified on Friday morning, four months after the departure of Ben Carter from the high-profile industry post.

In a statement, MBNT said the appointment came with more than two decades of experience in the construction and business management sectors, bringing “a wealth of expertise to the organisation”.

The statement said Mr Moriarty’s background in law, business and construction positions made him uniquely placed to lead Master Builders, with a focus on “innovation, industry development and advocacy”.

New Master Builders boss Damien Moriarty. Picture: News Corp Australia

Mr Moriarty is a licensed builder and holds an executive MBA from Melbourne Business School.

Master Builders’ statement said Mr Moriarty would spearhead initiatives that support the MBNT’s objectives of strengthening the construction industry, fostering member services and advancing industry policy at both local and national levels.

It said his experience in strategic management, policy development and industry representation would be pivotal as MBNT advocates for its members and the broader construction sector in the Northern Territory.

Mr Moriarty’s sister, Andrea, stepped down after 17 years as president of MBNT and had nothing to do with his appointment.

She will remain on the board.

Master Builders NT president Neil Sunners said the organisation was excited at the appointment.

Master Builders managing director Neil Sunners. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“Damien’s leadership skills and deep understanding of both the local and national building industry make him an excellent choice for this role,” he said.

“We are excited to work with him to shape the future of Master Builders NT and advance the interests of our members.”

Mr Moriarty is a director of the Kalo Group of Companies, which owns Kalo Homes.

Between 2017 and 2020 he was chairman of the Northern Territory Architects Board.

He was executive director of Killarney Homes for nine years until 2019 and was a Young Australian of the Year finalist in 2004.

He was a member of the Darwin Turf Club that commissioned and built the grandstand that led to the resignation of ICAC Commissioner Ken Fleming, after a discredited report into the project.

Mr Moriarty said he was looking forward to getting down to work.

“I am deeply honoured to join Master Builders NT and lead the organisation at such a crucial time for the building and construction industry,” he said.

“The challenges and opportunities facing our industry are significant, and I look forward to collaborating with our Board, members, and partners to ensure we continue to drive positive change and growth,” said Mr. Moriarty.