Mike Covey from Henry Schein Halas elected as new ADIA National President

Providing the tools for member businesses across the dental industry to grow, create jobs and operate sustainably is the focus of the new National President of the Australian Dental Industry Association (ADIA), Mr Mike Covey of Henry Schein Halas. The change in leadership occurred on 14 November 2014 at the ADIA annual general meeting held in Victoria.

"As the peak business organisation representing manufacturers and suppliers of quality dental products, ADIA is uniquely positioned to provide the infrastructure that supports member businesses. From initiatives that drive demand for the products that our members sell, through to delivering training that builds industry skills and offering practical tools like standard contracts, ADIA is in a strong position provide the assistance our members need," Mr Covey said.

According to Mr Covey, ADIA's formidable position owes much to the transformational change that occurred under his predecessor, Mr Trevor Martin of Gunz Dental. The past two years have seen initiatives delivered that include publication of the ADIA Advocacy Agenda which provides a context to ADIA's parliamentary lobbying, a record number of dentists attending the ADX14 Sydney dental exhibition in addition to overseeing administrative reforms that saw ADIA transition to a company limited by guarantee.

"We thank Trevor for his leadership in pioneering change across much of what ADIA does. His legacy is a stronger, dynamic organisation that has cemented its role as the peak business organisation representing manufacturers and suppliers of quality dental products," Mr Covey said.

The annual general meeting also saw Mr Phil Jolly of Ivoclar Vivadent confirmed as National Vice President. Both Messers Covey and Jolly were ADIA Board members prior to their appointment.

"ADIA's volunteer leadership is ably supported by a dynamic team of professionals in the national office with both Phil and myself are looking forward to working with them," Mr Covey concluded.

A career healthcare industry professional, Mr Covey is Managing Director of Henry Schein Halas, Australia's largest supplier of products to dental professionals. He has previously held other senior roles including Australia / New Zealand Regional Director of dental implant company, Nobel Biocare. Holding a Masters Degree in Optometry from the University of New South Wales, Mr Covey's start in the healthcare sector was as an optometrist which included experience as a senior researcher with the Cooperative Research Centre for Eye Research and Technology (CRCERT). He later went on to senior roles in the medical device supply sector in Europe, North America and Australia.

ADIA's Board comprises seven senior dental industry figures and the composition is detailed at: www.adia.org.au/about/goverance.