After 13 years at the helm of Regional Economic Solutions (RES), Leann Wilson is transitioning to a new role as the company enters an exciting phase of growth and innovation. Ms Wilson, a proud Bidjara, Kara Kara, and South Sea Islander woman from Barcaldine in Central Queensland, co-founded RES with Mal Meninga AM to bring the wisdom and knowledge of First Nations Peoples into the private sector, building on her extensive experience across public service, community leadership, and Indigenous economic development.
Under Ms Wilson’s leadership, RES has experienced phenomenal growth and contributed to meaningful outcomes across multiple sectors. As the business moves into its next chapter, Ms Wilson will step into the role of Executive Director of Business Development and Innovation, continuing to drive strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
“Leann has been the driving force behind RES, building this organisation from the ground up with unwavering commitment to First Nations economic sovereignty,” said Mr Mal Meninga AM. “Her ability to navigate complex relationships between government, business, and community has set a new standard for what First Nations leadership looks like in the private sector. As we move forward, Leann’s continued involvement ensures we stay true to the principles we founded this business on.”
“Leann’s leadership in establishing Regional Economic Solutions as a majority-owned First Nations business has shown that when you invest in good people and build on the right values, you create something truly sustainable,” said Mr Zimi Meka, CEO of Ausenco. “Our partnership with RES proves that genuine engagement with First Nations communities creates better outcomes for everyone and we’re excited to continue supporting this next phase of growth.”
“Leading RES has been one of the great opportunities of my professional life,” Ms Wilson said. “We’ve proven that First Nations businesses can operate at the highest levels while staying true to our cultural values and commitment to community. The time is right to bring in new leadership to build on what we’ve achieved.”
Ms Wilson is proud to announce that the new Managing Director for RES will be long-term associate Dr Ivan Ingram, a Wiradjuri and Filipino man from Parkes, New South Wales. Dr Ingram served as the first Indigenous person appointed to the role of Judicial Registrar with the Federal Court of Australia and was one of the five Members of the Queensland Truth-Telling and Healing Inquiry.
“I’m confident that Dr Ingram will bring the vision and capability needed to take RES to new heights, and I look forward to continuing to contribute in my new role. Ivan brings a unique combination of legal expertise, cultural understanding, and strategic thinking that makes him ideally suited for this role,” Ms Wilson said. “We’ve worked together for many years, and I’ve watched him grow as a leader who is deeply committed to First Nations advancement. His experience across legal, public, and consulting sectors will serve RES well as we expand our impact.”
In accepting this opportunity, Dr Ingram commented: “When Leann first spoke to me about the importance of mentoring and handing over the baton of leadership, I did not fully appreciate she was talking about our professional relationship and close friendship over the years. I am proud to be able to continue the great work that Leann has started. I look forward to continuing to work with her, Mal, and the team at RES to continue to do positive work with First Nations communities across the country.”
Dr Ingram commenced in the Managing Director role on 17 November 2025.
The team at RES remains committed to contributing to the economic sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and looks forward to continuing to be of service to community.
