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Investment Expert To Lead Breakthrough Victoria

28 October 2021

Investment in research, innovation and growth is set for a big boost in Victoria with the appointment of experienced international funds manager Grant Dooley as Chief Executive Officer of Breakthrough Victoria.

Mr Dooley and his investment team will manage the $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund, driving investment and commercialisation in research and innovation to support future jobs growth.

Mr Dooley is returning from Singapore to take up his new role, where he formerly headed ARA Infrastructure, managing public and private investment across the Asia-Pacific region. He was previously an Executive Director and Head of Asia for Hastings Funds Management.

Before working in funds management, Mr Dooley had a distinguished career as a trade official for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, including two years as the Australian Consul General in Guangzhou, southern China from 2010-12.

Breakthrough Victoria manages the $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund announced in the Victorian Budget 2020/21. It will drive investment in key industry sectors such as health and life sciences, agri-food, advanced manufacturing, clean economy and digital technologies.

It is run by an independent board chaired by former Victorian Premier John Brumby, who oversaw the recruitment drive that saw Mr Dooley attracted to Victoria.

Mr Dooley will take up his role in early November.

Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews

“Grant Dooley brings a wealth of international investment experience to his new role – his skills will provide a huge boost to our research and development sector and the world leading experts working in it.”

This is about harnessing our local talent – backing it with the investment it needs to turn bright ideas into long-term business opportunities and jobs for Victorians into the future.”

Quote attributable to Breakthrough Victoria Chair John Brumby

“Breakthrough Victoria will see great ideas in Victoria commercialised faster, keeping our best ideas, businesses and jobs close to home.”

Quote attributable to incoming Breakthrough Victoria CEO Grant Dooley

“I look forward to heading up the Breakthrough Victoria team and working with researchers, founders, businesses and government to create more jobs for Victorians into the future.”

Reviewed 28 October 2021

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