NEWS AND EVENTS

MEDIA RELEASE: Appointment of Alena Pople as General Manager of the Hunter Region Business Hub

05/03/2026

The Board of The Hunter Region Business Hub is delighted to announce the appointment of Alena Pople as it’s new General Manager commencing on March 9, 2026.

A highly respected regional leader with more than 20 years’ experience across economic development, tourism, marketing and community engagement, Alena brings a strong track record in business support, revenue development and strategic growth to the role. Her skills align strongly with the Hub’s mission to empower and connect small businesses across the Hunter Region.

Alena has extensive experience working with government, industry and community partners to strengthen local economies. She has developed and delivered business support programs, coordinated jobs and industry forums, led marketing campaigns such as Support Local initiatives, and overseen website redevelopments and digital engagement strategies to increase visibility and impact for regional businesses. Joining the Hub team following senior roles with Cessnock City Council, Roche Group and Salter Brothers Hospitality, where she led regional marketing strategy, economic development initiatives and major grant programs.

Alena’s blend of commercial acumen, governance experience and community focus made her the ideal candidate to lead the organisation into its next phase of growth.

“Alena brings proven experience in strategic leadership, grant funding, revenue development and stakeholder engagement. Her ability to connect strategy with practical outcomes for local business will be invaluable as we continue to grow membership, strengthen partnerships and deliver high-quality programs and events,” Kavita Payall, Chair of the Board said.

Her appointment signals a strong commitment to sustainable growth, collaboration and innovation for the Hunter Region business ecosystem. Over coming months Alena is looking forward to reaching out to members, Councils and business stakeholders. Speaking on her appointment, Alena said:

“I am incredibly proud and humbled to step into the role of General Manager at Hunter Region Business Hub. Small businesses are the backbone of our regional economy, and I am passionate about ensuring they have access to practical support, advocacy and meaningful connections that help them grow sustainably. I look forward to working closely with our Board, members, sponsors, councils and community partners to strengthen our value proposition and ensure the Hub continues to be a trusted and impactful organisation for businesses across the Hunter Valley.”

Alena can be contacted on alena@huntervalleyhub.com.au

For media enquiries, please contact: 02 4936 2557

The Hunter Region Business Hub