Former Australian embassy diplomat Paul Myler has been appointed as a strategic adviser by shipbuilder Austal.
The former deputy chief of mission at the Australian embassy in Washington and founder of advisory firm StratQ is expected to bring three decades of experience in international diplomacy, geopolitical risk and economic strategy to strengthen Austal’s international operations.
During his tenure at the Australian embassy, Myler supported ambassadors Joe Hockey, Arthur Sinodinos, and Kevin Rudd through pivotal global developments, including the evolution of the Quad, COVID-19 response coordination, China’s economic coercion of Australia and the prioritisation of trusted supply chains.
In addition, during a key milestone, he was involved in the conception, negotiation and delivery of the landmark AUKUS security agreement between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Austal Limited chief executive officer Paddy Gregg said Myler’s extensive experience in navigating geopolitical complexities and economic resilience, and recent involvement in the establishment of AUKUS, made him an invaluable asset to the Austal team.
“Paul’s unique insights will further enhance Austal’s strategic capabilities and initiatives in the United States, Australia, and throughout the Indo-Pacific. We look forward to tapping into his vast knowledge and experience as we continue to deliver multiple naval shipbuilding, technology and support programs, globally,” Gregg said.
Myler’s diplomatic career includes serving as Australia’s ambassador to Russia and the countries of central Asia from 2013 to 2015, where he played a key role in shaping Australia’s response to Russia’s invasion of the Crimean Peninsula and the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17.
His expertise also extends to senior roles in Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, where he spearheaded efforts in strategic and defence cooperation, Indo-Pacific economic diversification and international cyber security policy.