AII appoints PIO as Director for Business Development

A prominent Indian-origin accountant has been appointed as Executive Director for Business Development at an influential think-tank in Australia for spearheading business rapport between two countries.
Jim Varghese was today appointed as Executive Director of Business Development at Australia-India Institute (AII), a leading centre for the study of India.
"The recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi represented a game changing moment in the Australia-India relationship especially in enhancing the productive and pragmatic business relationships between the countries," said a statement issued by AII.
"This is yet another step by the AII to become the leading hub for business development dialogue, research and corporate partnerships between India and Australia," it said.

Through its teaching, research, public policy and outreach programs, AII is building Australia's capacity to understand India.
Varghese has an outstanding track record in both the public and private sector, running multifaceted businesses with a determined focus and ability to deliver excellent and innovative results.

He has been awarded the Centenary Medal for services to the Public Sector and in 2009 was awarded an Order of Australia for Services to Public Sector Reform and Services to the Community.
The University of Melbourne established the AII in October 2008, which is a hub for dialogue, research and partnerships between India and Australia.

AII is also set to open up another chapter in New Delhi next year.