SPASA announces appointment of new Chief Executive Kristin Brookfield

The Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Australia and New Zealand (SPASA) has today announced the appointment of Kristin Brookfield as its new Chief Executive.

The appointment aligns with SPASA’s Annual General Meeting, where members gather to consider  the organisation’s achievements and set a course for the future under new leadership.

Announcing the appointment, SPASA Chairman, Anthony Grice stated “Kristin brings a wealth of experience in policy, advocacy, and industry leadership that dovetails perfectly with SPASA’s strategic direction.

“We are confident that her extensive leadership experience and proven track record will be instrumental in driving the association’s next phase of growth and innovation.”

Brookfield brings more than 30 years’ experience across residential building, construction, government relations, and member engagement, including over two decades with the Housing Industry Association (HIA). During her time at HIA, where she has been Deputy Managing Director since August 2023, she led the national policy team and oversaw state-level advocacy on key issues such as workplace relations, planning, building and environmental legislation, industry skills, and economic policy.

Looking forward to her new role, Brookfield advised "the opportunity to join SPASA feels like a natural alignment with my experience and expertise.

“SPASA members operate in sectors closely related to those I’ve worked with throughout my career in the building industry. I’ve also had a long-standing passion for industry associations and the vital role they play. It’s clear that SPASA has built a strong and respected organisation over the past decade, and I’m excited to contribute to its next phase of growth and development.”

Strengthening SPASA’s role as a national voice for the swimming pool and spa industry
Brookfield holds a Bachelor of Town Planning (Honours) from the University of NSW and a Graduate Certificate in Project Management from the University of Technology, Sydney. She began her career in NSW town planning and, for the past 20 years, has worked closely with all levels of government on approval requirements for residential developments, including houses and pools.

She noted “I’m confident I can bring that experience to the conversations SPASA is having with government and contribute to improving the regulatory environment,” she explains. “As an industry board member of the Australian Building Codes Board and with a strong relationship with Standards Australia, I also hope to leverage my connections and insights to support and benefit SPASA members.”

With a growing understanding of the organisation and its direction, Brookfield has already gained a strong appreciation for the foundations that have been built and the vision driving its progress, adding "it’s evident that outgoing CEO Lindsay McGrath has shown exceptional dedication in building this outstanding organisation, supported by a committed team.

“The strong brands and strategic initiatives I now have the privilege of leading are a testament to their vision of a unified national body that advocates for the swimming pool and spa industry. I’m honoured to continue this legacy and look forward to working with the team to further strengthen and advance the Association in the years ahead.”

Brookfield will commence in her new role on 2nd June.

Through Leisure Media Limited, SPASA is the owner of Australasian Leisure Management.

Images: Kristin Brookfield.