Vandervoort was the driving force behind the success of the organisation and also led the organisation’s predecessor, the Hunter Valley Coal Chain Logistics Team, Haraldson said.

“Jonathan has done a wonderful job creating order and efficiency in the very complex Hunter Valley Coal Chain,” Haraldson said.

“It says something that supply chains around the world look to the HVCCC for guidance and advice on how things can work more effectively, and Jonathan can take great credit for this.

“We will always remember Jonathan’s extraordinary contributions and wish him well as he pursues a new career direction.”

Vandervoort has accepted a position with another organisation, but under confidentiality conditions is unable to disclose who that is.

HVCCC will seek to replace Vandervoort with a candidate from either within the organisation or externally. Shanthi Herd will be acting CEO after Vandervoort’s departure in January.

“It has been a great privilege to be so deeply involved in establishing HVCCC,” Vandervoort said.

“I am extremely proud of everything HVCCC has achieved during my time as CEO.

“HVCCC staff are like a family and they will always have a special place in my memory.

“It is a very difficult decision to leave, but after five years I feel that the time is right for me to pursue other opportunities and hand over to a successor who can build further on the strong foundations we have created.”