NECA appoints Stewart Joyce as Chief Executive Officer

The National Electrical and Communications Association has today announced the appointment of Stewart Joyce as its new Chief Executive Officer. Stewart will commence in the role from the 16th March 2026.

Mr Joyce brings more than three decades of senior leadership experience across the electrical, communications, engineering and technical services sectors. He joins NECA from EQUANS E&C ANZ, where he currently serves as Managing Director, leading a national business delivering complex electrical, communications, mechanical and fire services across Australia and New Zealand.

NECA National President Peter Beveridge said the appointment followed a rigorous national process and reflected the organisation’s focus on strong commercial leadership, industry credibility and strategic reform.

“Stewart is an outstanding appointment for NECA and for our members nationally. He has led large, complex electrical and technical services businesses through periods of growth, restructuring and change, while maintaining a strong focus on safety, training and workforce capability,” Mr Beveridge said.

“His deep understanding of the electrical and communications contracting sector, combined with his governance experience as a current NECA National and Victorian Board Director, positions him exceptionally well to lead the Association at a time of significant industry transformation.”

Mr Joyce has held senior executive roles with EQUANS, Downer Group, Trivantage Group, Thycon Industrial and Nilsen Electric, progressing from trade-qualified electrician through to CEO and Managing Director roles in national and multinational organisations. His experience spans P&L accountability for businesses exceeding $250 million in turnover, large-scale workforce leadership, enterprise bargaining, safety reform, acquisitions and national rebranding programs.

Mr Joyce said it was a privilege to be appointed CEO of NECA and to lead an organisation with a proud history and a critical role in Australia’s energy, construction and communications future.

“NECA is the peak body for an industry that quite literally powers the nation. I am honoured to take on the role of Chief Executive Officer and to work with the Board, members and staff to strengthen NECA’s leadership, advocacy and service to industry,” Mr Joyce said.

“Our sector is facing profound change through electrification, decarbonisation, digital infrastructure growth and workforce transition. NECA must continue to be a strong, credible voice with governments, regulators and clients, while delivering real value to members on safety, skills, industrial relations and business sustainability.”

“I look forward to working closely with members across all states and territories to ensure NECA remains commercially grounded, policy focused and firmly aligned with the needs of electrical and communications contractors of all sizes.”

Mr Beveridge said the Board was confident Mr Joyce would provide steady leadership and a clear strategic direction.

“Stewart understands the realities of running contracting businesses, because he has done it at scale and from the ground up. He knows what good regulation looks like, what poor regulation costs industry, and how to engage constructively with government to achieve better outcomes,” Mr Beveridge said.

Mr Son Trinh will remain the acting CEO until Mr Joyce’s commencement and will remain CFO for NECA. 

“On behalf of the National Board, I welcome Stewart to the role and look forward to working with him as NECA continues to advocate for a strong, safe and sustainable electrical and communications industry. I further thank Mr Son Trinh for directing NECA during the recruitment process and his ongoing leadership with NECA,” said Mr Beveridge.