Supplier association Visual Connections has promoted Karren Challoner-Miles to Chief Executive Officer, and confirmed its 2026 Board line-up at its Annual General Meeting, which was held on Wednesday night. Both the Board and operational team now feature a balance of new talent and long-term stability, which the Association says provides an ideal basis for an exciting year ahead.

Karren, who joined the Association 12 months ago as Executive General Manager, has led the organisation through a challenging period of transition, and the promotion reflected her 'outstanding' leadership’, said Visual Connections President, Mitch Mulligan.

“Transitions are always challenging, but the Board is delighted with the impact Karren has made over the past few months, and the positive progress we are already seeing in the Association," he told the gathering.

"We are very confident in a strong future with Karren at the helm."

Board positions were also announced, with the election of Adrian Fleming, General Manager Australia & New Zealand for Print IQ, confirmed at the meeting. Adrian joins Craig Heckenberg, Managing Director of Epson Australia, as newcomers to the Board. Craig was appointed recently to replace long-term Board Member, John Wall, who resigned at the end of the financial year.

Visual Connections President, Mitch Mulligan, with CEO Karren Challoner-Miles.

 The new Board comprises:

• Mark Canavan – Marketing & Vendor Relations Manager, Graphic Art M
• Adrian Fleming – General Manager Australia & New Zealand, Print IQ
• Craig Heckenberg – Managing Director, Epson Australia
• Mitch Mulligan – Managing Director, Bottcher Australia
• Ian Martin – General Manager -Trade, Ferag Australia
• Alex McClelland – Managing Director, ORAFOL Australia
• Luke Wooldridge – National Product Manager, HVG Graphics Media

Office bearers will be confirmed at the first association Board Meeting in early 2026.

Mitch said Adrian, a highly accomplished executive leader with 25 years’ experience in sales, business growth and business transformation both in Australia and overseas, will be a further asset to what is already a very strong Board.

“Adrian’s strategic approach to operational improvements, change management and business growth opportunities will be a genuine asset as we continue to transform the association for the benefit of members and the wider industry,” he said.

“Adrian also has valuable experience with industry associations. He sat on the Board of the Graphic Arts Merchants Association of Australia (GAMAA) in the early 2010s, serving as President during the preparations for the merger with the Visual Industries Suppliers Association (VISA) to form Visual Connections. He also served for a period as a Director of the merged association from 2020 – 2021. We are delighted to have him back,” Mitch concluded.

Adrian says he is deeply committed to Visual Connections’ mission of uniting the industry and building a sustainable future. 

“With my background spanning print-technology and software, I see how powerful a representative supplier voice can be in shaping education, innovation, and collaboration,” he says.

“Visual Connections provides an essential platform: a forum where competitors come together, expertise is shared, and new ideas are nurtured - from trade shows to grants to talent development. By supporting initiatives that drive digital transformation, sustainability, and career pathways, we can strengthen the entire sector. 

“As part of the Board, I am looking forward to contributing my experience in technology-driven change and my passion for education, helping us stay ahead of emerging trends while remaining grounded in the craftsmanship and relationships that define our industry.”

The two most recent appointments bring fresh perspectives, insights and talents to the Board at a time when the organisation is undergoing the next stage of ‘generational transformation’, Mitch says.

“As our members will know, this year has seen a real ‘changing of the guard’ at Visual Connections, with a revised strategy, refined approach and some exciting new initiatives and priorities,” Mitch says.

“Having the support and guidance of a strong and dedicated Board, as well as a talented operational team under Karren’s guidance, will be absolutely vital to achieve our goals, and we are confident we have the right team in place to further enhance our ability to support our members and contribute to a sustainable future for the sector.”