The Print & Visual Communication Association of Australia (PVCA) has appointed Charles Watson as its general manager of IR, policy and governance, to lead the industry’s workplace relations and governance.
“Charles is the leading expert across workplace relations for our industry. He brings a strong understanding of the Awards and legislative requirements which will be beneficial for our members across all workplace and industrial relations matters,” PVCA president Matt Aitken said.
Watson has over 13 years of experience working across industrial and workplace relations, having worked for law firms Clayton Utz and Herbert Smith Freehills, as well as sitting on various NFP Boards providing legal counsel.
No stranger to the print industry, Watson previously ran the Workplace Relations and Legal Services team with PVCA, formerly Printing Industries Association of Australia, before a short sabbatical with Workforce Guardian and then returning to the industry when he joined The Real Media Collective in 2020 to support members and the industry through COVID.
During this time, Watson delivered 102 submission pages into government and 147 templates and advisory notices to members and industry, playing a pivotal role in keeping the print and distribution industry sectors open for essential work and guiding members through the challenges of employee relations with the many moving parts the pandemic brought.
“I have known Charles for over a decade – as a former member of PIAA myself, and working with him under TRMC. His knowledge and application of the law across our industry is unsurpassed, further he is calm under pressure and offers a reassuring hand when working through important matters for our members,” PVCA CEO Kellie Northwood said.
“His contribution to the Collective membership during a very difficult period was significant in advising and representing the interests of the print, communications, media, mail and related industries across governance, legal and policy-related issues. His leadership and expertise is our industry insurance policy across workplace relations and I congratulate Charles on his appointment.
“A critical issue facing our industry is skills and training including the supply of skilled labour, not only for today but also the future. Having skills and training a key priority for Charles’ role is vital in overcoming these challenges and ensuring the right person is communicating our industry’s needs into the Minister directly. Charles is the best person to meet this challenge.”
Watson will oversee a hybrid solution retaining the online resource portal, HR Helpline, and his advisory role to matters before the Fair Work Commission.
Additionally, Watson has key responsibilities to represent the industry across all skills and training councils, boards and committees driving an industry-wide review across apprentice, school leaver, skilled labour supply and other related matters for the industry.
“The PVCA holds a critical place as the peak industry body representing the interests of our industry. I have long held a deep passion for our industry and working with members once more is a great privilege. I look forward to working with Kellie, the Board, and the broader industry stakeholders to navigate, with positive resolution, the many issues that face our industry,” Watson said.
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