Armidale funeral director Sam Piddington will help shape the future of the industry across NSW and the ACT after being appointed to a key leadership role with Funerals Australia.
Piddington, Managing Director of Piddingtons Armidale, has been named the organisation’s new NSW/ACT Divisional President, representing funeral professionals across both jurisdictions.
The Armidale businessman brings more than 25 years of industry experience to the role and has spent the past four years serving on the Funerals Australia NSW/ACT Divisional Council.
He has worked full-time at Piddingtons Armidale for the past 18 years, continuing a long association between the local funeral business and the industry body. Piddingtons has been a member of the association for more than 90 years.
Piddington said his new role would focus on increasing member engagement, supporting effective regulation, strengthening industry relationships and expanding education and professional development opportunities.
“I am deeply honoured to be appointed NSW/ACT Divisional President of Funerals Australia. Piddingtons has been an active member of the Association for more than 90 years, and I look forward to working with members to strengthen engagement, raise awareness of the value our Association provides, support professional standards and regulation, and create greater opportunities for education and development across our industry.”
“By working together, we can build a stronger, more connected and accountable profession that continues to deliver the highest standards of care to the families and communities who rely on us.”
In the role, Piddington will work with funeral professionals, industry stakeholders and the Funerals Australia National Council on issues including professional standards, workforce development, education and advocacy.
Funerals Australia National President Asha Dooley said divisional presidents provided an important connection between local funeral businesses and the national organisation.
“Our Divisional Presidents are closely connected to the funeral businesses and communities they represent. They provide an important link between our members, stakeholders and the national Association, while helping to identify the issues and opportunities affecting funeral service in their region.”
Piddington takes on the position as the industry navigates changing community expectations and discussions around regulation, professional standards and workforce development.
He said he was looking forward to giving back to the profession and working with members throughout NSW and the ACT.
“I’m looking forward to giving back to a profession that has provided so much reward and purpose throughout my career. By working together through greater awareness, stronger relationships, ongoing education and personal accountability, we can continue to strengthen our profession and better support the families and communities who rely on us.”
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