Former Alcoa boss up for award

Mandurah resident and former Alcoa Australia chairman Alan Cransberg has been named as a finalist in the 2016 Western Australian of the Year Awards.

Mr Cransberg recently retired from Alcoa after 36 years of service, relinquishing his many roles — which included being president of Alcoa Refining and managing director — to spend more time with his family and enjoy the Mandurah lifestyle.

“I was surprised when I found out about the nomination, but it is a great honour to be thought of in such a regard,” he said.

“My career took me overseas and while I had the choice of living in America, I wanted my children to be brought up in WA and so we returned.

“I am very proud to be West Australian — I love the place and always thought it was the best environment to raise a family.”

The Western Australian of the Year Awards recognise the highest level of contribution made to the State by those born and bred here, or those who have chosen to make WA their home.

The business category recognises excellence in business leadership, social entrepreneurship or innovation resulting in a big social or economic impact for the betterment of WA industry and economy.

Mr Cransberg is a University WA graduate, the chairman of the West Coast Eagles and sits on the boards of the Black Swan Theatre Company and the UWA Business School.

He has previously served on the board of the Alcoa Foundation and Our Watch, which works to prevent violence against women and their children, and was also a founding member of CEOs for Gender Equity.

“These awards are a brilliant opportunity to showcase our community and I am excited to see what happens on the night,” Mr Cransberg said.

“My nomination reflects those who have helped me get here—– they deserve credit as well.”

The Western Australian of the Year Awards will be announced at a black tie event on Friday, June 3, at Crown Perth.