Outgoing CEO John Tyas retires after 14 years with the organisation
The board of Avocados Australia (AAL) has announced the appointment of Milton Bazley as the organisation’s incoming CEO.
Milton formally commenced with AAL on 5 May 2026, allowing for a transition period alongside outgoing CEO John Tyas, who will remain with us until he retires in the first week of July.
Milton brings more than 30 years of experience across agribusiness, food manufacturing, and global commodity trade. He has held senior leadership roles with organisations including SunRice, where he led international trading and export operations across Asia, the Pacific, Europe and the Middle East, managing large-scale commercial portfolios and complex market access arrangements.
His experience includes developing and executing export strategies, building international partnerships, and working closely with government and industry stakeholders.
“If Milton can successfully sell rice into highly competitive markets such as Japan and South Korea, we are excited to see what he can achieve for the Australian avocado industry,” the board said in a statement announcing the appointment.
“In addition to his professional credentials, Milton is widely regarded within the industry as a collaborative and highly personable leader. We are confident he will work closely with the AAL team to build on the organisation’s strong capability and culture.”
The transition period is designed support a seamless handover, ensuring continuity of leadership and enabling Milton to gain a thorough understanding of the organisation, its stakeholders, and the broader avocado industry.
The board thanked John Tyas for his excellent efforts over the past 14 years.
“Under his leadership, Avocados Australia has grown from a relatively small organisation into one that supports growers in every way possible,” it said. “We remain committed to continuing this progress and to further enhancing the value and benefits delivered to our member growers.”
