He was also technical director for a UK-based textile company and, before that, worked with the CSIRO in key research, development and adoption projects.

Professor James Rowe, chief executive of the

Sheep CRC, said: “He brings a great understanding of wool production and processing.

"Importantly, he is very familiar with the interaction between developers and users of new technology - that's critical to achieving uptake of research results across the industry.”

Mr Tester said: “There are some important technical advances coming out of the Sheep CRC’s wide-ranging research, and there are good opportunities to develop these innovations with industry.

“The Next Generation Wool Quality Program, in particular, has a range of initiatives crucial to the long-term future of the

Australian wool industry.

“These include practical ways to guarantee next-to-skin comfort and handle of knitted fabrics and garments, and improving the whiteness and photostability attributes of Australian merino wool.”

Mr Tester’s career in the wool textile industry has spanned the entire pipeline from raw wool to finished garments and

roles in commercialisation and technology transfer to industry groups in the northern hemisphere and Australia.

He takes up his new position on December 1 , and will continue to be based in Albury.