Business council chair Margaret O’Rourke today welcomed the announcement of Mr Falconer to the role.

“Patrick brings a wealth of business experience particularly in sales and marketing; having worked locally, nationally and internationally in these fields,'' she said.

"Patrick’s qualifications and experience will further enhance the business council into the future.

"Mr Falconer also has small business experience having run his own business for a number of years from

Bendigo.

"This will greatly assist the business council in understanding the challenges that face this sector of the business community and the membership base.”

Ms O'Rourke said the board believed the appointment would allow the organisation to add further value to the members’ and sponsors services that the BBC offers.

"Patrick is an experienced business operator with an understanding of financial operations, marketing, media and customer relations,'' she said.

“Patrick’s appointment follows an extensive recruiting process undertaken by the BBC Board.

"Interest in the position was high and the selection committee was impressed by the calibre of applicants.

"We feel that Patrick is an outstanding choice to lead the Bendigo Business Council and to assist in delivering its strategic objectives.”

Mr Falconer succeeds Kevin de Vries who resigned in December. He will commence in the role on February 20.