Sonia Romeo stands down from SDA assistant secretary role, as new role revealed

A major change to the shop assistants’ union has been announced, as longstanding assistant secretary Sonia Romeo is replaced and her new role revealed.

Outgoing assistant secretary Sonia Romeo with SDA secretary Josh Peak and incoming assistant secretary Jordan Mumford. Picture: Supplied

South Australia’s most influential union boss has stepped down after almost 30 years in active leadership.

It was announced on Wednesday Sonia Romeo would end her time at Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association.

It is understood she has been appointed by Premier Peter Malinauskas as one of his two deputy chiefs of staff.

“Sonia first joined the union as a teenager while working at Foodland and has made significant and lasting contributions to the union and our members,” SDA secretary Josh Peak said in a statement.

Sonia Romeo has stepped down from her assistant secretary role. Picture: Supplied

“To SDA members, Sonia has always been an advocate, making a tangible difference to the lives of many.

“She has always put the interests of our members first and fought for positive change.”

Ms Romeo was the first woman appointed as secretary of the Shop Distributive and Allied Employee’s Association when she took the role in 2015.

“We wish Sonia and her family the very best and thank her for her lifetime of commitment to the union and our members,” Mr Peak said.

The SDA also announced the new assistant secretary would be Jordan Mumford.

Mr Mumford has been with the union since his employment with Coles and McDonald’s, and the SDA said has been “instrumental in modernising our services”.

“Jordan knows first-hand the challenges that SDA member face,” the post said.

“Just like Sonia, Jordan is committed to advancing the rights of SDA members and fighting for fairness, dignity and respect in every aspect of the work you do.”

Originally published as Sonia Romeo stands down from SDA assistant secretary role, as new role revealed