Long-time University of Tasmania finance boss David Clerk lands top job at Master Builders Tasmania

After a lengthy search, a former top executive at the University of Tasmania has been chosen as the next chief executive of Master Builders Tasmania – as the organisation prepares for a crucial few years in infrastructure projects.

Incoming Master Builders Tasmania chief executive David Clerk. Picture: Supplied

The University of Tasmania’s former chief operating officer, David Clerk, has been appointed the next chief executive of Master Builders Tasmania.

Mr Clerk will succeed outgoing boss Matthew Pollock, who will step down from the role at the end of the year.

Master Builders President Mr Tony Streefland said Mr Clerk had been appointed after a lengthy executive search, and came to the role with a wealth of experience in the construction sector.

“David was an outstanding candidate and will be a strong leader of the building and construction industry in the years ahead,” Mr Streefland said.

“David has the experience, know-how, and local networks to build on the success of Master Builders of the past few years.

David Clerk is the former Chief Operating Officer of UTAS. Pic: supplied.

“The next few years are a crucial time for the building and construction industry as the industry will be called upon to deliver a $20 billion pipeline of major infrastructure projects, and more than 30,000 new homes over the next decade to keep pace with population growth.”

Mr Clerk began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers where he specialised in supporting corporate deal activity, and included five years working in Shanghai supporting foreign investment into China.

After a lengthy stint in the energy sector in senior strategy roles, Mr Clerk returned to Tasmania in 2010 to become the University of Tasmania’s chief operating officer.

Over this period the University was involved in construction projects of approximately $1 billion.

“Having a strong leader with a proven history of delivering for Tasmania will help us deliver this pipeline for the Tasmanian community and economy,” Mr Streefland said.

“With the upcoming completion of the new Master Builders HQ we are entering an exciting time for the Association. David’s leadership will ensure we continue to build on the successes of previous years and be a leading voice for the building and construction industry in Tasmania.”

Mr Clerk is due to take the reins Master Builders Tasmania in late January 2024.