A qualified solicitor, Cooper is currently the head of corporate affairs and strategic projects in Queensland for Transurban. She will be the first woman in the CCIQ chief executive role.

Her appointment came as CCIQ chair Tony Schiffman said the chamber had a new strategic plan which would be driven by Cooper.

“The strategy looks at new opportunities, particularly in circular and renewable economies, for businesses across Queensland, and Heidi’s work with ESG initiatives, along with attending Harvard University’s program on Climate Change and Energy, will drive the implementation of CCIQ’s strategy,” Schiffman said.

Cooper will take up the new job in February with Tait finishing on January 28 before heading to a new job as the chief executive of Maleny Dairies.

She is also a a member of the Jobs Queensland Board and the Brisbane Festival Giving Committee and has held board positions and senior roles in infrastructure, energy, education and training, agriculture and not-for-profit sectors.

Schiffman said Cooper had worked extensively for the advancement of business in Queensland.

“Over the next decade, there is an extraordinary opportunity for business in this state and CCIQ will play a vital role in promoting sustainable industry development to ensure Queensland remains one of the best places to do business,” Schiffman said.

“Heidi will be working closely with myself, the board and executive team at CCIQ to bring more support to metropolitan, regional and remote Queensland business owners.”