ALEX ZILKENS
Alex Zilkens graduated from University of Sydney in 1986 with a combined Arts/Law degree, and has worked as a lawyer in private practice since his admission in 1987. He has been the principal of Zilkens Lawyers since 1993, taking instructions in commercial legal work as well as commercial and general litigation.
His clients span hospitality, property development and management, financial services, manufacturing, retail, wholesale/distribution, mining services, private individuals and building and construction. This has given him considerable experience in dealing with issues regarding corporate governance, insolvency, property, contracts, finance, employment, succession planning, litigation, mediation and other forms of dispute resolution.
After becoming chairman of YHA Western Australia in 1996, Alex stood down from that position in 2010 to become the chairman of Hostelling International Australia (formerly known as YHA Australia), a position that he held until 2016 when YHA Western Australia and Hostelling International merged. In 2014, Alex was also elected as a Vice President of the International Youth Hostel Federation t/as Hostelling International, a registered charity under the Charities Act in England & Wales, United Kingdom with its head office in Welwyn Garden City representing 65 member associations (youth hostelling associations from different countries).
As a Chair and as a Director, Alex focuses on the highest standards of governance, enabling managers and operational staff to do their jobs within the strategy, processes and structures created and overseen by the board, all the time making sure that the board focuses on strategic issues.
From 2014 - 2021, Alex was also a Member of the WA Liquor Commission and, in accordance with the Liquor Control Act 1988, regularly determines complaints, disciplinary matters and liquor licensing matters referred to the Commission by the Director of Liquor Licensing.