Dear Viv,

I am writing to express our deepest appreciation for your exceptional service to the AGS. Throughout your tenure as Chair, you have demonstrated outstanding leadership and professionalism, and your hard work and dedication have been instrumental in many of our recent successes.

“Serve to lead” is a leadership philosophy that emphasizes the importance of serving others as the foundation of effective leadership. It focuses on prioritizing the needs and well-being of the team, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. Leaders who adopt this approach actively listen, show empathy, and empower their team members to reach their full potential. By putting service before authority, they inspire trust, loyalty, and high performance. This philosophy underscores that true leadership is not about wielding power, but about guiding and uplifting others to achieve collective success. You have delivered against all of the above.

Your leadership skills have been a beacon of inspiration. You have consistently guided and motivated the team, fostered a culture of collaboration and excellence. Your openness and willingness to listen to diverse perspectives has created an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. You have strengthened our organisation and empowered individuals to contribute their best.

Over the past year, AGS has launched several initiatives related to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), sustainability, and developing young talent at the beginning of their careers. Through your direct involvement, the AGS has also been able to establish closer links with the Geoprofessional Business Association, extending our engagement, collaboration, and influence to North America. This has opened new avenues for growth and development, and we are grateful for your vision and efforts in making this possible.

Your directions on strategy, active participation in leading the Executive Committee meetings and contributing to the Business Practice and Sustainability Working groups has been invaluable. Under your guidance, the AGS has generated a surplus, leading to the creation of the ‘AGS Development Fund’. This fund has already made significant contributions, including the AGS video, revision of the Blue Book (Effective Site Investigation), AGS soakaway project, and enabling participation in international conferences and meetings. The Development Fund will continue to benefit all AGS member organisations in the future, and we owe much of its success to your leadership.

As I take over as Chair, I hope my own time in this role will be as successful as yours. Your legacy of excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability will continue to inspire us as we move forward. On behalf of all of us at AGS, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your contributions. Your impact on our organization and industry has been profound, and we are grateful for the positive changes you have brought about.

Thank you, Viv, for your dedication, passion, and exemplary leadership. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours and look forward to continuing to work with you as outgoing chair.

Dr Alexander Lee
Chair of the AGS