The appointment follows an extensive recruitment campaign which saw interviews conducted with many high-quality candidates from across Australia.
Mr McCalman starts on Monday, June 20 and will be based in Deniliquin.
“We are thrilled with the appointment,” Murray Irrigation acting chair Noel Baxter said.
“Ron brings extensive agricultural experience having held leadership roles in primary production, commodity management, supply chain and ag finance.
“He is the right person to take the company forward.”
Mr Baxter said the company completed a lengthy and targeted recruitment process to ensure it attracted the best talent.
“We didn’t want to rush the process,” he said.
“This wasn’t just about finding a CEO, it was about finding the right fit for our business.
“The board was willing to take its time in order to find that person.”
Mr McCalman has held leadership roles in organisations such as GrainCorp, Emerald Grain, Agfarm and most recently, Merredin Farms in Western Australia.
He said he is looking forward to living in the Murray Irrigation footprint and being part of an exciting chapter for the company.
“I’m excited about the opportunity,” Mr McCalman said.
“I have strong connections to regional New South Wales, and I understand the challenges associated with the water industry.
“I am a firm believer that, wherever possible, you need to be based close to your customers and staff if you are to truly understand and respond to the challenges and opportunities of improving the business operating model and the value you can create for all stakeholders,” Mr McCalman said.
The CEO recruitment process was launched in December, after the departure of Philip Endley. He had been with the company since August 2019.
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