business adviser/business facilitator profiles · 2018. 4. 20. · page | 7 fred has held a number...
TRANSCRIPT
Business Adviser/Business
Facilitator Profiles
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Contents Advanced Manufacturing ..................................................................................................................... 5
Fred Eske .......................................................................................................................................... 6
Darek Swiderski, NSW .................................................................................................................... 8
Keith Madden, NSW ........................................................................................................................ 9
Peter Davies, NSW ........................................................................................................................ 10
Terry O’Riordan, NSW ................................................................................................................... 11
John Mills, NSW ............................................................................................................................. 12
Leo Van Den Heuvel, QLD ........................................................................................................... 13
Ramona Bullard, QLD ................................................................................................................... 14
Guy Primrose, QLD ........................................................................................................................ 15
Greg O’Connor, QLD ..................................................................................................................... 16
Vlado Baban, VIC ........................................................................................................................... 17
Robert Murphy, VIC ....................................................................................................................... 18
Bruno Bello, VIC ............................................................................................................................. 19
Mal Clark, VIC ................................................................................................................................. 20
Geoff Hodgens, VIC ....................................................................................................................... 21
David Knipe, VIC ............................................................................................................................ 22
Herman Mott, SA ............................................................................................................................ 23
Gabor Hernadi, WA ........................................................................................................................ 24
Kerry Bell, WA................................................................................................................................. 25
Fritz Shoemaker, TAS ................................................................................................................... 26
Food and Agribusiness ...................................................................................................................... 27
John Murray .................................................................................................................................... 28
Sally Palmer, NSW ......................................................................................................................... 29
Monique Donaldson, NSW ........................................................................................................... 30
Brian Sherwood, NSW ................................................................................................................... 31
Patrick Muraguri, NSW .................................................................................................................. 32
Bill Hazard, NSW ............................................................................................................................ 33
Vance Wheeler, NSW .................................................................................................................... 34
Richard Everson, ACT ................................................................................................................... 35
Jayne Gray, QLD ............................................................................................................................ 36
Mark Goldsmith, QLD .................................................................................................................... 37
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Rod Murray, QLD ........................................................................................................................... 38
Ian Bennett, QLD ............................................................................................................................ 39
Raj Gopal, VIC ................................................................................................................................ 40
Peter Veal, VIC ............................................................................................................................... 41
John Lochery, VIC .......................................................................................................................... 42
Vineet Ahuja, VIC ........................................................................................................................... 43
Robert Lloyd, SA ............................................................................................................................ 44
Trent Mader, SA ............................................................................................................................. 45
Brenda Callahan, SA ..................................................................................................................... 46
Michael Fetherstonhaugh, SA ...................................................................................................... 47
Damon Wells, TAS ......................................................................................................................... 48
Don Geare, WA ............................................................................................................................ 49
ICT, Digital and Professional Services ............................................................................................. 50
Melissa Anderson ........................................................................................................................... 51
Christopher Kelleher, NSW ........................................................................................................... 52
Anna Samios, NSW ....................................................................................................................... 53
John Keegan, NSW ....................................................................................................................... 55
Tony Shannon, NSW ..................................................................................................................... 56
Fabian Seibold, VIC ....................................................................................................................... 57
Kent Kavanagh, VIC ...................................................................................................................... 58
Kerri Turner, VIC ............................................................................................................................ 59
Ian Nearhos, QLD .......................................................................................................................... 60
Rob Olver, QLD .............................................................................................................................. 61
Stephen Schmid, SA ...................................................................................................................... 62
Andrew Canion, WA ....................................................................................................................... 63
Sonya Henderson-Edbrooke, QLD .............................................................................................. 64
David Schloeffel, VIC ..................................................................................................................... 65
Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals.................................................................................... 66
Ashley Bates ................................................................................................................................... 67
Ken Long, NSW .............................................................................................................................. 68
Ged Wallace, NSW ........................................................................................................................ 69
Angus Rose, QLD .......................................................................................................................... 70
Jeremy Barker, QLD ...................................................................................................................... 71
Dr. Julie White, VIC ........................................................................................................................ 72
Mike Sewell, VIC ............................................................................................................................ 73
Geoff Brazier, WA .......................................................................................................................... 74
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Chris Harnett, SA ........................................................................................................................... 75
Mining Equipment, Technology and Services and Oil, Gas and Energy Resources ................... 76
Nick Poll ........................................................................................................................................... 77
Ross Carter, NSW .......................................................................................................................... 78
Marianne Cummings, NSW .......................................................................................................... 79
Clare Newton, NSW ....................................................................................................................... 80
Joe Ippolito, QLD ............................................................................................................................ 81
Neil Platt, QLD ................................................................................................................................ 82
Dale Thompson, VIC ..................................................................................................................... 84
Victor Hilliard, SA ........................................................................................................................... 85
Angela Doyle, WA .......................................................................................................................... 86
Martin Collard, WA ......................................................................................................................... 87
John Hanlin, WA ............................................................................................................................. 88
Nick Lehmann, NT ......................................................................................................................... 89
Tourism ................................................................................................................................................ 90
Cam Charlton .................................................................................................................................. 91
Graham Poon, QLD ....................................................................................................................... 93
Graham Bell, QLD .......................................................................................................................... 94
Philip Cox, WA ................................................................................................................................ 95
Rachel Telford, NT ......................................................................................................................... 96
Business Facilitation Services .......................................................................................................... 97
Keith Calvert .................................................................................................................................... 98
Mike Goodman, NSW .................................................................................................................... 99
Anthony Holzwart, QLD ............................................................................................................... 100
Graham Poon, QLD ..................................................................................................................... 101
Ross Contarino, QLD ................................................................................................................... 102
James Scotland, QLD .................................................................................................................. 103
Mark Amirtharajah, VIC ............................................................................................................... 104
Bryan Moroney, VIC ..................................................................................................................... 105
Brett Henderson, VIC ................................................................................................................... 106
Simon Williams, SA ...................................................................................................................... 107
Michael Beaton, WA .................................................................................................................... 108
Sarah Jones, TAS ........................................................................................................................ 109
Grant Peden, National ................................................................................................................. 110
Innovation Connections ................................................................................................................... 111
Dave Fleming, NSW .................................................................................................................... 112
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Peter Milic, NSW .......................................................................................................................... 113
Gary Colquhoun, NSW ................................................................................................................ 114
Mary Frey, NSW ........................................................................................................................... 115
Jacqui Watt, ACT ......................................................................................................................... 116
Mitch McGuire, QLD .................................................................................................................... 117
Scott McNeil, QLD ........................................................................................................................ 118
Mario Martini, QLD ....................................................................................................................... 119
David Martin, QLD ........................................................................................................................ 120
George Pofandt, QLD .................................................................................................................. 121
Greg Ward, VIC ............................................................................................................................ 122
Paul Mason, VIC........................................................................................................................... 123
Kevin Thomson, VIC .................................................................................................................... 124
Joseph Dodd, VIC ........................................................................................................................ 125
Jim Grigoriou, VIC ........................................................................................................................ 126
Neil Clarke, SA ............................................................................................................................. 127
David Monck, SA .......................................................................................................................... 128
Andrew Richardson, SA .............................................................................................................. 129
Richard Penman, SA ................................................................................................................... 130
Ken Green, WA............................................................................................................................. 131
Peter Mitchell, National ............................................................................................................... 132
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Advanced Manufacturing
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Fred Eske Sector Director – Advanced Manufacturing, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Mobile: 0414 700 587 [email protected]
Background
Fred has 40 years’ experience in Defence and the Defence and aerospace industry with an exceptional record of leadership, collaboration and achievement. Fred is an advocate for advanced manufacturing, technology innovation and industry led collaborations. He has extensive senior executive expertise in large and small business operations, strategic planning, project management, business development, engineering and advanced manufacturing, enhanced by a comprehensive industrial network within Australia and globally. Fred graduated as a professional aeronautical engineer from the RMIT and has undertaken post graduate studies in business administration and project management. As an Air Force engineering officer, Fred undertook a range of aerospace technical and project management roles in Australia and overseas. In June 1989, Fred was awarded and Order of Australia for outstanding achievements as the Engineering Manager for the acquisition of the Black Hawk utility helicopter, local manufacture and assembly, and its introduction into service. As an owner and Director, Fred has formed and operated a niche aerospace engineering company. He also firmed and led the F-35 Join Strike Fighter (JSF) Industry Coalition in partnership with Defence, and developed and successfully implemented the BAE Systems Australia strategy for advanced manufacturing and regional sustainment for the global JSF aircraft. Fred was instrumental in winning and establishing the collaborative and innovative Defence Materials Technology Centre involving many Australian companies (large and small) and academia partners.
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Fred has held a number of executive leadership roles in BAE Systems Australia. He has been a General Manager responsible for a diverse range of Defence and commercial operations and projects at 20 locations Australia wide. As the Head of Business Development, he led strategy development, its major campaigns and business winning across the air, land and maritime domains. Most recently, Fred has been devising and executing the South Australia ‘Defence State’ strategy to attract and development major Defence programs, science and technology and local industry capabilities.
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Darek Swiderski, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0418 768 534 [email protected]
Background Darek provides professional business evaluations and business advisory services for SMEs seeking operational improvements and growth opportunities. Darek brings a unique blend of engineering and business experience to his role and has worked for a number of Australian and overseas SMEs. Before joining the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, Darek was instrumental in designing and implementing many operational improvements for a leading global solar products manufacturer. In addition, he brings a wealth of international trade experience covering logistics, market selection, market entry strategies and international business plans. Darek has the right blend of experience, skills, qualifications and enthusiasm to help businesses grow and achieve outstanding results in a highly-competitive, globalised market place. Darek's qualifications include a Masters of Engineering, Post Graduate Diploma for the Specialists for the Developing Countries and Diploma of International Trade Management.
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Keith Madden, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0400 661 803 [email protected]
Background Keith has over 30 years’ experience in Commercial Manager, General Manager and CEO roles. He specialises in advising on supply chain and distribution. He trained at KPMG in Private client services. Keith has managed finance, logistics, and sales and marketing teams for SMEs and multi-nationals including a Fortune 500 company. Keith is focused on developing practical, strategic and operational solutions that address business issues and opportunities for his clients. His breadth of experience has proven invaluable in analysing and driving business performance solutions. Keith's skill set includes finance, strategic planning, export market development, operational improvement, lean implementation, and business improvement activity. His sector experience includes Advanced Manufacturing, Transport and Logistics, Food, ICT, Digital and Professional Services including printing and graphics. Keith's qualifications include a Bachelor of Commerce and Chartered Accountant. He is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and a registered tax agent.
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Peter Davies, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Newcastle, NSW Mobile: 0407 023 326 [email protected]
Background Peter is an experienced Business Adviser covering the Hunter/Central Coast and mid north coast region of NSW for Advanced Manufacturing. He has extensive experience in lean manufacturing, logistics, strategic planning, production, capex, mergers and acquisitions, contract negotiation – both domestic and international, R&D, WHS, design and construction, project management and process engineering. Peter is energetic and passionate about performance improvement in business, through innovation, leadership development and engagement. He has held executive roles in manufacturing, engineering, mining and mineral processing, and fuel management operations in multi-site steel distribution and recently as National Manufacturing Manager for Rocla Pipeline Products, covering 16 Australian sites. Peter is a past Chairman and Board member of Bishop Tyrell Anglican College, and was involved in leading the funding and construction of a medical clinic in Uganda. Peter has a Structural Engineering Certificate, and qualifications in Production and Operations, Six Sigma, Technical Project Management, and WHS Systems and Auditing.
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Terry O’Riordan, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber South Sydney and Wollongong, NSW Mobile: 0417 277 139 [email protected]
Background Terry is an experienced Business Adviser, consulting with numerous manufacturers and enabling technology companies over the last 10 years. These businesses comprise of food manufacturing, printing, engineering, marine, information technology and environmental services. Terry has developed strong business networks with Australian councils, business enterprise centres, chambers of commerce and was a member of the organising committee for the Southern Strength Manufacturing Group. Terry is experienced in change management, continuous improvement and major client implementation projects. He has over 25 years prior business experience, including roles as NSW State Manager of an information logistics company, General Manager of an award winning printing business and State Operations Manager of a major direct marketing and mail house. Terry has a Graduate Diploma in Business (Human Resources), and qualifications in Probe Accreditation, Integrated Quality Systems Auditing, Production and Operations Management, Six Sigma and Technical Project Management. He is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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John Mills, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0400 662 083 [email protected]
Background John has over 30 years’ experience in the Australian manufacturing industry across a broad range of sectors. Combining a professional engineering background with post graduate business skills, consulting experience and plant management roles, John has a unique ability to work effectively with personnel at all levels in an organisation. John has held senior management positions with leading Australian and international companies working to achieve world-class results. Being able to grasp technical issues and their financial impact on business performance, John assists organisations to understand current performance limitations and can provide guidance on how to achieve business excellence through strategic, action oriented improvement activities - which achieve positive financial impact. John adds value to the organisations he works with by challenging employees and managers to use various forms of innovation ranging from process improvement through to new product and service development, and new business model creation.
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Leo Van Den Heuvel, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0407 720 588 [email protected]
Background Leo has over 35 years’ experience in senior management roles with both Australian and international companies. These management roles have included production management, project management, sales management and general management. Leo’s industry experience includes manufacturing, fabrication, construction chemicals, gas supply and distribution, and mining services. Leo has a strong focus on team building, blue sky strategies and the implementation process to assist companies in reaching their full potential. Leo has also been involved in the successful start-up of small businesses. Leo holds a Bachelor of Engineering, a Graduate Certificate in Management and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Ramona Bullard, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Townsville, QLD Mobile: 0418 250 832 [email protected]
Background Ramona began her career in executive roles with top tier engineering firms, later transitioning to management consulting and auditing for a diverse range of business and government organisations. As an experienced consultant and mentor, Ramona is passionate about facilitating business improvement, leadership, governance and strategic growth. More recently, Ramona has provided services as a business educator, delivering specialised business programs for TAFE Queensland and operating her own registered training organisation for five years. Having a diverse industry background with an emphasis in the engineering, construction and manufacturing sectors, she draws on 20 years combined operational and consulting experience. Ramona has tertiary qualifications in corporate communications, business management and human resource management. She is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management and a registered (QMS) Business Improvement Auditor with Exemplar Global.
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Guy Primrose, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0428 102 304 [email protected]
Background Guy is an experienced Business Adviser covering the northern Brisbane and Sunshine Coast regions for Advanced Manufacturing. He has a successful track record in increasing the operational capacity of organisations, while unifying key areas of operations to achieve sustainable growth. His experience in manufacturing, production and process improvement, strategic planning, contract negotiation (both domestic and international), design and construction as well as project management and WHS, has enabled him to generate long-term operational results for a range of companies across diverse sectors including steel, engineering, recycling and food production. Guy is a person who enjoys inspiring others to greater performance and building confidence through mentoring, coaching and training. With a raft of experience in business management, Guy has previously held both executive and operational roles in heavy manufacturing, engineering and construction. Guy is also a past Chairman and Board member of Compass Housing Services which today manages a portfolio of over 9,000 properties. Guy holds both a Master of Business Administration from the University of Melbourne as well as an Advanced Diploma in Business Management (Human Resources).
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Greg O’Connor, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0412 062 676 [email protected]
Background Greg has broad business and commercial experience, this includes 10 years as Corporate Taxation Manager for two listed public companies —Incitec, a listed subsidiary of ICI Australia (now Orica) which is a major manufacturer of industrial and agricultural chemicals, and Kern Corporation, one of the largest listed property development, construction and investment groups in Australia. Greg also gained deep SME consulting experience with nearly 10 years in his own company, specialising in financial analysis and modelling for a diverse range of clients. Since joining the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, Greg has completed more than 150 reviews and evaluations for companies operating in clean technology, energy, waste and water, manufacturing and enabling technologies and services— including construction, infrastructure, freight and logistics and professional services.
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Vlado Baban, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Geelong Manufacturing Council Geelong, VIC Mobile: 0418 120 373
Background Vlado has an extensive background as a Business Adviser, having transformed the business operations of many Fortune 500 companies across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region using advanced lean concepts whilst working in his private consultancy practice. He has a successful record of business ‘turn around’ in complex manufacturing environments such as FMCG, Jobbing, and complex technology environments in banking and customer service. Since 2008, Vlado has been delivering Business Evaluations for the Geelong Manufacturing Council, and has delivered over 150 reviews. The key activities Vlado performs with businesses include: business model innovation; ‘one page’ planning; value-stream mapping; ansoff matrix analysis; organisational design analysis; and HR performance analysis. Vlado’s qualifications include an Engineering Degree, and a Master of Business Administration, and the Australian Institute of Company Directors, (Director’s course). Vlado has also co-authored three books on lean concepts.
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Robert Murphy, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0439 675 516 [email protected]
Background With more than 40 years’ experience across a diverse range of industries with a number of national and multi-national companies, Rob is an expert in business management and manufacturing processes. In previous senior operational and managerial positions, Rob has managed large teams, led export initiatives, and increased operations efficiency and effectiveness. His expertise allows him to provide best practice advice to manufacturers and service firms on a range of issues, including strategic planning, strategy deployment, operations management and human resource management. Rob is a member of the Institute of Industrial Engineers and has held positions as Victorian President and Federal Senior Vice President. Rob’s qualifications include a Diploma of Engineering (mechanical), Bachelor of Commerce (majors: management, applied economics) and Master of Business (Manufacturing).
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Bruno Bello, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0409 123 701 [email protected]
Background Bruno was based in Japan specifically to be trained in advanced lean business and manufacturing management, skills he has brought to his role as a Business Adviser for the Entrepreneurs’ Programme. Bruno has been able to utilise these skills to transform businesses across the world, where as a Global Director he was directly responsible for the transformation and profitability of these businesses that ranged in revenue from $800 million to $2 billion. Bruno has experience working with the packaging, electronics, aerospace and automotive industries. Previously, Bruno has held numerous senior positions including Global Director of operations, Country Manager and Managing Director, while having lived in Germany and the USA. Bruno is qualified in engineering, and holds a Masters of Business Administration.
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Mal Clark, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Melbourne and Gippsland, VIC Mobile: 0428 328 228 [email protected]
Background Mal’s career started in technology and innovation. Following university, where he gained First Class Honours and a PhD in Physics, Mal worked in Europe in technology and product development. Once Mal returned to Australia, he joined the multi-national BICC Communications, where he was the Technical Director managing several worldwide projects. Mal then moved to an operational role, with over 250 staff on a 24/7 rotational shift pattern. This role involved business development, commercialisation, P&L accountability and organisational development. Upon leaving BICC, these skills were utilised in several advanced manufacturing and service industries. Recently, Mal has been working with multiple SMEs, to transition them into high growth firms capitalising on their potential. Mal's technical training provides him with high quality analytical skills with an ability to facilitate change in short timeframes. Mal's qualifications include a Bachelor of Science (First Class Hons), Doctor of Philosophy and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Mal is now a Fellow of the Institute of Physics, member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and member of the Australian Institute of Physics, a Chartered Engineer and a Chartered Physicist.
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Geoff Hodgens, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0439 116 352 [email protected]
Background Geoff has over 30 years’ experience in both financial and general management roles within industries including engineering, automotive components, contract manufacturing of cosmetics and toiletries (including TGA registered products) and health regulation. His financial management and broad operational experience includes areas such as: Financial and management reporting HR/IR & OHS Budgeting and forecasting Procurement Analysis and modelling Supply chain and inventory
management Cash flow management IT management Business strategy People and team management Due diligence for acquisitions Workflow and process reviews Stakeholder engagement Systems improvement (including
ERP systems) Geoff is committed to customer service, continuous improvement and developing/mentoring multi-disciplined teams. His strong interpersonal skills and open consultative and collaborative management style has enabled the building of effective customer and stakeholder relationships.
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David Knipe, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0419 883 752 [email protected]
Background David’s early career was in management positions in the Victorian power and water industries. In 1991, he became the first Managing Director of Melbourne Water. In 1997 he was appointed the establishment CEO of VenCorp, operating the gas spot market that is now part of AEMO. He then consulted to utilities and companies tendering for utility contracts. From 2004–2007 David managed an aluminium fabrication company that he partly owned, manufacturing product for the building industry. He consulted in the water sector at the time of the drought, before becoming a Business Adviser. David’s skill base covers business strategy development, operations management, organisational design, and sales and marketing management, as well as an in-depth knowledge of water and energy infrastructure. David’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Engineer (Elect) and Master of Business Administration. He is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers Australia, Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management.
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Herman Mott, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business SA Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0400 660 512 [email protected]
Background Herman has worked as a Business Adviser and as part of the Growth Services team for the past nine years, assisting over 200 businesses to improve their business, financial performance and longer term sustainability. In addition to his consultancy experience, Herman brings over 30 years of extensive senior management experience in leading, adjusting and growing businesses in the manufacturing and service sectors within Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and China. He has held Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer roles within ASX listed and private companies including multi-nationals and Fortune 500 businesses. He brings sound experience in working with boards, as well as having a thorough practical application and understanding of reporting requirements, corporate governance principles and processes. Herman’s background and qualifications are in mechanical engineering and a Bachelor of Science, followed with formal qualifications in business administration (Master of Business Administration). Herman has extensive practical experience in the application of ‘lean’ and ‘world best practice’ systems and methodologies.
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Gabor Hernadi, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business Foundations Perth, WA Mobile: 0417 985 075 [email protected]
Background Gabor has over 20 years of senior level experience in sales, marketing and operational management within medium and large international organisations. In the past 10 years he has applied his strategic planning and hands-on operational management skills to assist SMEs in the food, agribusiness, and manufacturing sectors to build resilience and internal capabilities, enabling them to profit from growth opportunities and weather downturns. Gabor’s expertise is in planning and implementing innovative business strategies and associated work systems, processes and KPIs to drive revenue and operational transformation to reduce costs and unlock efficiencies. Gabor works in developing internal operational and management capabilities to increase financial, sales, manufacturing and logistics performance and connecting SMEs with external business and technical expertise, learning opportunities, government services and funding, and industry specific resources. He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ Director’s Course, holds a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Business degree. Gabor is a Certified Practicing Marketer (CPM), Fellow of the Australian Marketing Institute, and Associate Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management.
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Kerry Bell, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA East Perth, WA Mobile: 0437 174 721 [email protected]
Background Kerry provides business advisory services to firms seeking competitive advantage in the advanced manufacturing sector of WA, in particular those looking to grow their business through lean manufacturing, process improvement and increased sales revenues. Arriving at senior management via the sales and marketing channel Kerry has held a number of senior management positions helping grow businesses within the WA manufacturing, technology and mining services sectors. Kerry has also had ownership positons in two SMEs so understands the challenges involved in this segment. Kerry holds an Executive Masters of Business Administration from the University of Western Australia, and as a UWA Alumni is actively involved in the Graduate Management Association and the Global Network for Change.
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Fritz Shoemaker, TAS Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Hobart, TAS Mobile: 0420 927 532 [email protected]
Background Fritz is an experienced CEO with multi-national experience particularly in northern and Eastern Europe. Fritz's last ten years of employment have been in senior leadership positions in the manufacturing industry. Fritz has experience across a wide range of industries including boat/ship building (aluminium and HDPE), and plastics (fabrications and rotational moulding), as well as aquaculture equipment supply. He has experience as an entrepreneur having owned restaurants, catering and book businesses and was an award winning chef. He brings experience in Human Resources, Industrial Relations and organisational culture (winning an Employer of Choice Award) and has led HR and IR practices in a 1500 person firm. Fritz has experience in root cause analysis (having led teams looking into sentinel health events), as well as food safety with accreditation as an internal and external food safety officer. He has close ties to aquaculture industries and has an extensive worldwide network of aquaculture and marine contacts. Fritz believes in life-long learning and has a Master of Business Administration, studied engineering, business and culinary arts. He has served on numerous boards as chair of both Audit and Finance committees.
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Food and Agribusiness
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John Murray Sector Director – Food and Agribusiness, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Mobile: 0417 216 510 [email protected]
Background
John is the Entrepreneurs’ Programme Sector Director for Food and Agribusiness. With over 30 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry, predominantly FMCG, John has experience in the following sectors:
Food (cereals, grocery, ingredients)
Beverages (juice, soft drinks, wine)
Heavy industries
Packaging
Pharmaceuticals John’s specific areas of expertise include strategic planning, industrial marketing, supply chain development, organisational change, productivity improvement and business turnaround. John has been with the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science for seven years and was the NSW State Director for Enterprise Connect. John holds a Master’s Degree in Science (MSc) and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and is a graduate of the of The Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Sally Palmer, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Bathurst, NSW Mobile: 0417 277 109 [email protected]
Background Sally is a Business Adviser who has experience working with a range of sectors, including the Advanced Manufacturing and Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals sector. Sally has extensive experience and a particular focus on regional food, beverage and agribusiness firms. She has diverse experience in start-ups and established businesses, and has developed expertise in identifying and implementing strategic initiatives around business model efficiency, change management, and effective operational guidance to deliver a strong and sustainable performance. With a strong background in measurement and reporting, Sally has a robust approach to strategy, policy and action. Previously as the Operations Manager for a primary health care provider, operating in five states, Sally coordinated major growth, new initiatives and commercialising disruptive technology and procedures. This business brought new products and services to market by large-scale complex marketing campaigns and corporate sponsors included Sanitarium and Kellogg’s and research partners included the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. Sally’s qualifications include Bachelor of Science (Hons) and a broad range of non-accredited learning around leadership, communication and strategy execution.
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Monique Donaldson, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0418 854 621
Background Monique has built and managed executive event and media businesses in Australia, South Africa and Germany, including mentoring start-up country managers in her capacity as a Board Director. Monique has exported business services into markets in Europe, Asia and the United States of America and has also had small business experience with two of her own start-ups in Australia. Monique worked as an Austrade Trade Start Adviser helping hundreds of SMEs grow their export capability and win new business in overseas markets including China. As a Business Adviser with the NSW Business Chamber, Monique has worked with many SMEs delivering tailored services and advice on all aspects of their operations— from business development, marketing and international growth to compliance and risk management. Monique has proven success in delivering assistance to SMEs with partners including federal and state governments, banks, insurance organisations, local councils and industry associations. Monique has an economics degree and commenced her career as an analyst in the international markets division of the Reserve Bank of Australia.
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Brian Sherwood, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Tamworth, NSW Mobile: 0417 277 152 [email protected]
Background In his current role, Brian has been providing professional business evaluation and advice services for over six years to businesses seeking improvement opportunities and pathways for growth. Brian has extensive experience across a diverse range of industries and roles, including: Senior Research and Development Chemist in the pharmaceutical, industrial, agricultural and veterinary chemical industry; Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer in a private agricultural company; Forester in forestry management; Divisional Operations Manager in the marine industry; Counsellor in rural finance; Financial Planner in banking and financial services; and President in a regional chamber of commerce. Brian is trained in the development of systems and processes for continual business improvement, including the use of lean methodology, process mapping and benchmarking tools such as Winning Measures, and Comparison International’s Probe Microscope. Brian has a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Chemistry, and Diplomas in Community Service and Financial Planning.
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Patrick Muraguri, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0417 277 115 [email protected]
Background Patrick is an experienced Business Adviser and management consultant for firms operating in the manufacturing value chain. Over the past nine years he has engaged with over 200 SMEs in Australia. His skills include conducting research interviews with business owners to identify key issues in and around their business, performance diagnostics including benchmarking based on quantitative and qualitative data, modelling improvement strategies and facilitating their implementation with other specialist service providers and information sources. Patrick is a specialist coach in strategic planning. He helps firms understand and maximise the value they can get from strategic planning and implementation practices. Through his leadership and guidance, the majority of his clients are implementing projects such as medium term strategic planning, formalising business systems, initiating internal succession, adopting structured innovation processes and engaging formal market research. Patrick’s formal qualifications include a Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Strategic Planning, Post Graduate Certificate in Business Research Methods and a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Food Science and Technology.
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Bill Hazard, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Newcastle, NSW Mobile: 0416 293 703 [email protected]
Background Bill is an experienced business leader with expertise in marketing, corporate identity, strategy, innovation and technology. Having started in food science and technology, Bill’s career quickly evolved into marketing with particular emphasis on brand identity, communication and innovation. Bill’s unique skill base of marketing with a technical background has resulted in a number of successful brand and new product innovations that have become enduring market leaders. After 10 years with Quality Bakers and five years with Goodman Fielder as General Manager Marketing, Bill spent eight years in advertising where he worked on a broad range of projects with Sanitarium, The Heart Foundation and numerous corporate identity projects across a wide range of industries. Bill brings an open mind, clear vision and a simple down to earth manner to any business situation that will provide the alignment, focus and innovation required for improved performance. Bill has an extensive background in: business strategy and planning; business management, operating systems and business planning; manufacturing and operations; food science and technology including new product development; marketing strategy, planning and implementation; and brand communications.
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Vance Wheeler, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Albury, NSW and Wodonga, VIC Mobile: 0418 652 358 [email protected]
Background Vance has worked across manufacturing, transport, food, agribusiness and tourism for almost 30 years, combining a professional engineering background with trade qualifications, operations management and commercial skills. After commencing his career in the automotive industry, he quickly moved to engineering and project management before progressing into the metal fabrication sector with an operations focus. Further career changes gave exposure to the industry sectors of pulp and paper, urban transport, food processing, agriculture and tourism in roles including business development, general management, shareholder and Director. Vance is able to assist businesses with understanding their current strengths and limitations and identify areas of potential improvement by drawing on a range of industry experience. Vance understands the perspective of the business owner and seeks to find practical solutions to complex problems.
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Richard Everson, ACT Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Canberra, ACT Mobile: 0427 272 754 [email protected]
Background Richard’s passion for business is founded on 30 years of private sector operational experience. Richard has worked in executive roles, working with multi-national food and management providers Sodexho and Compass Group. Sites under his management included RAAF Base Fairbairn and the AFP College. Bitten by the entrepreneurial bug, Richard left the corporate world and, together with his wife, built and operated an award-winning guesthouse for 12 years before its sale in early 2015. Richard is an experienced business coach, consultant and project manager and has held key roles with regional development agencies and associations. Richard is passionate about championing the contribution that SMEs make to their communities. He is keen to support regional producers, build local supply chains and promote sustainability, both at a business and community level. Richard regards business as both an art and a science. He supports business owners with their personal development and leadership skills and assists them to clarify their ‘big picture’ vision and goals. He supports this ‘people-first’ approach with a strong systems focus and an extensive repertoire of tools, case studies and solutions.
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Jayne Gray, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Cairns, QLD Mobile: 0401 119 742 [email protected]
Background With more than 30 years’ experience in business and project management, Jayne works with regional businesses to deliver business evaluation and analysis and assists firms to identify areas for further development, improvement and sustainable growth. She is an experienced business management consultant with an extensive background in working with SMEs in areas such as strategic planning, market communications, competitor analysis, continuous improvement strategies and in skills advice for innovation and growth. Jayne has owned her own businesses and held executive positions in both the private and government sectors. She is a qualified trainer and holds post graduate qualifications in business management.
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Mark Goldsmith, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0455 520 655 [email protected]
Background Mark has over 25 years’ experience in food and agricultural manufacturing and supply chain businesses delivering on the concept of ‘the paddock to the plate’. This has involved dealing with key stakeholders including primary producers, manufacturers, transport and warehouse providers, retailers and wholesalers throughout nationally and internationally. Mark's business exposure ranges from SMEs to large multinationals, with roles ranging from starting on factory floors to senior management. After providing consulting services to various businesses with advice on manufacturing, supply chain and financial improvement and new market penetration opportunities he moved into an Adviser’s role in 2013. Mark is a qualified Company Director completing the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Company Directors Course. His skills cover the entire gamut of business functions, including financial control, analysis and administration; cash flow management; supply chain modelling and implementation; operational, procurement and inventory management; sales and marketing; R&D; project management; and human resource utilisation.
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Rod Murray, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Bundaberg, QLD Mobile: 0448 148 411 [email protected]
Background Rod is a Business Adviser focusing on businesses in regional central Queensland and the Wide Bay Burnett area. Rod has worked with businesses across a number of industries, including food and agribusiness, mining, tourism, manufacturing, and retail. Prior to this, Rod worked with a number of small businesses in a range of industries throughout Northern Territory and remote Queensland as a Small Business Support Officer. Rod has extensive experience in business management, IT, marketing, accounting and risk assessment. His main strength is his ability to work with business owners in their own environment and to enable them to identify growth opportunities, and to put strategies in place to allow these opportunities to develop. He has spent the past 15 years identifying issues impacting regions and businesses across all industry sectors, and on developing ways to deal with them. Rod has a Master of Professional Accounting and a Master of Business Administration, and is a member and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Ian Bennett, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Sunshine Coast and North Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0447 489 712 [email protected]
Background Ian is an experienced Queensland-based Business Adviser, consulting to the food and agribusiness sector. He has built a career on assisting companies develop internal capabilities to expand their footprint not only in the domestic market, but into global markets. The food and agribusiness sector has been the main focus in terms of companies assisted, providing clients with strategy and advice on P&L, growth, marketing, production proficiency, regulatory compliance, Free Trade agreements and workforce planning. Ian has hands on experience previously as a Managing Director of an Australian operation based in Singapore, and assisting many companies enter international markets through the Austrade Trade Start program. Ian is a regular presenter on international growth at trade and business events and has developed strong business networks with Councils, Business Enterprise Centres, and Chambers of Commerce. Ian’s qualifications include International Marketing and Accounting for non-accountants (Australian Institute of Management, Sydney).
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Raj Gopal, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Partner: Ai Group Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0412 177 526 [email protected]
Background Raj has worked in senior management roles for many years including as General Manager, Operations Manager and Plant Manager, managing budgets of up to $70 million in global organisations and SMEs. Raj's business background covers pharmaceutical, specialty packaging and complex multi plant food manufacturing operations. Raj’s key areas of strength are change management, including development of strategic manufacturing footprints and rationalisation, restructuring and turnaround of underperforming operations. This includes development and sourcing of new technologies to reduce the operating cost base, execution of significant CAPEX projects and Trans-Tasman transfer of technologies and manufacturing facilities. As a Business Adviser, Raj has the skills, experience and knowledge to conduct Business Evaluations to assist Australian firms improve their operations and seize opportunities for growth in the global market. Raj's qualifications and memberships include: Bachelor of Science (Hons), Master of Science, member of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute and member of the Australian Institute of Management, Institute for Management Development, Change Management, DuPont Safety Management, and Coaching for Performance.
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Peter Veal, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Geelong Manufacturing Council Geelong, VIC Mobile: 0418 501 770
Background Peter has over 40 years’ experience in diverse manufacturing business. For 14 years he had a business consultancy practice and has implemented improvements in a wide range of organisations. Peter has held senior roles including CEO of a family owned company. He has spent years working on change management in businesses which included technology transfer and product development, positioning for new markets, IT and ERP development, ISO accreditation, customer service and cultural change. Peter is an experienced professional engineer and has helped organisations with strategy development and implementation as well as practical and proven solutions in operations, supply chain and line management. His passion is helping other companies apply best practice (including lean thinking) tools and processes. He has worked with many Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Inductees as well as a range of food and agribusinesses, and has supported effective transformations across a number of diverse industries. Peter is delighted to now work with companies as a Business Adviser, and offers their leaders thoughtful and discerning support.
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John Lochery, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0449 210 515 [email protected]
Background John has been a Business Adviser for the Entrepreneurs’ Programme since 2014, bringing with him 25 years commercial experience in sales and marketing in the food industry across all channels including retail, foodservice, QSR and export. John is an experienced senior manager, and has a primary focus on strategic planning and implementation, continual improvement, innovation and profit, with an overall goal of maximising returns for shareholders and supporting brands in the market. A key focus for John is developing new opportunities for the businesses he works with. John’s qualifications include a Certificate in Food Service Industry and a Certificate in Strategy Execution Master Class.
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Vineet Ahuja, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0418 566 381 [email protected]
Background Vineet has a passion for strategy through to floor level operational supply chain continuous improvement. He has experience of over 39 years in senior management working in food, medical devices, healthcare products, oil, plastics and chemicals, and worked with SMEs to global icons, including international technology projects in Malaysia, India and Mexico. With technical and leadership skills in organisational transformations, Vineet is accomplished in reducing waste, developing people to achieve "HIGHER", turning around morale and businesses, improving safety, influencing cultural change and setting future strategies. With direct experience in operations, production, procurement, planning, logistics, quality, engineering, technical services and project management, he is a "thinker-doer mentor" with high people skills and customer service orientation. Vineet is a qualified Engineer, holds a Master of Business Administration, a Post Graduate Diploma in Quality Management, as well as holding a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
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Robert Lloyd, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business SA Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0449 901 609 [email protected]
Background Robert has over 30 year’s executive management experience in national and international major companies in the beverage, retail fast-food, energy, and manufacturing sectors. He has a strong understanding of the role of marketing and sales in growing food businesses nationally and entering new markets. Robert has worked with the South Australian Department of Industry and Trade consulting at a senior level to South Australian companies on improving their business development practices, marketing, innovation, commercialisation and strategy. He has been a CEO and Director of high technology start-up companies in the IT and pure food industries and understands the challenges of building small innovative businesses. Robert has also lectured in marketing, retailing, project and operations management, lean leadership, information strategies and sales at the University of SA’s International Graduate School of Business. He has also spent time managing the University of South Australia’s industry based leadership development and business improvement programs, including the Lean Thinking and Six Sigma courses nationally. Robert’s qualifications include a Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science, Company Directors Diploma, Certificate in Lean Thinking and Graduate Diploma in Finance (RG146).
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Trent Mader, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0407 765 286 [email protected]
Background Trent has over 20 years of experience working with businesses in the food and agribusiness sector. He has helped companies access new markets, develop new products and processes to grow their business. Having a passion for regional communities and enterprise, Trent understands the unique challenges often faced in trying to generate profitable outcomes. Trent has collaborated with people across the food and agribusiness sector including meat processing, horticulture, food products, wine and beverage. Trent has also worked with those companies to develop solutions to their infrastructure needs including water, energy, transport and waste management. Having worked in both the public and private sectors Trent has an extensive network and understanding to bring to any opportunity.
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Brenda Callahan, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business SA Mt Gambier, SA and West Victoria, VIC Mobile: 0419 031 589 [email protected]
Background Brenda brings over 20 years of extensive business development, senior management and strategic executive sales experience across a number of sectors including manufacturing, food and agribusiness, recruitment and engineering. Brenda has vast experience in the facilitation and management of supply chains into major projects across South Australia and regional Victoria and this has enabled her to work closely with a number of SMEs to support them to increase capabilities, employment and realise growth opportunities. Her experience across the agribusiness, manufacturing and engineering sectors brings a significant network of key contacts and advisory services, and introductions into relevant supply chains networks. Brenda is a Business Adviser who provides tailored advice and assistance to support SMEs to improve their competitiveness and productivity. Brenda works collaboratively with SMEs who are based in south east South Australia and in western Victoria and operate in the advanced manufacturing and food and agribusiness growth sectors.
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Michael Fetherstonhaugh, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Port Pirie, SA Mobile: 0488 975 399 [email protected]
Background Michael provides professional facilitation services with specialisations in business development and growth through marketing and accelerating business capabilities. He enjoys working with companies to identify opportunities to grow revenue and reduce costs through improved efficiencies and empowering people. Michael has extensive leadership and managerial experience within the private sector. Before becoming a Business Adviser with the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, Michael was a business adviser with Regional Development Australia, where he was responsible for working closely with Australian businesses seeking to expand and enter into various export markets. Michael has spent many years in management within the media (radio, television and print) where he worked with companies to develop their brand and build their customer portfolio. Michael’s formal qualifications include an Advanced Diploma in Business Management, accredited Business Counsellor and qualifications in training and workplace assessment.
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Damon Wells, TAS Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Launceston, TAS Mobile: 0438 337 386 [email protected]
Background Damon has over 30 years’ experience in commerce across a diverse range of industries, including agriculture (growing and export), supermarkets, rail transport, construction, forestry and manufacturing (timber industry). Damon has strong business modelling, strategic planning, acquisition, restructure, synergy, integration and cash flow management expertise. His career includes major business system upgrades, change management and business reviews. These are some of the skills which he looks forward to sharing with new clients. He holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting), is a Fellow of CPA Australia, a member of the Institute of Company Directors and is a Justice of the Peace. He is a prior Director of the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is a Tasmanian Divisional Councilor for CPA Australia.
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Don Geare, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Business Foundations Bunbury, WA Mobile: 0447 955 498 [email protected]
Background Don has a general management background, having held senior positions in both large corporates and SMEs in a variety of industries. This has provided relevant experience in manufacturing, food processing, exporting, running co-operatives, and operating and marketing service providers on a B2B and B2C basis. Specific experiences include leadership and people management; strategic development and definition of objectives; performance management; creation of reports and identification of key drivers; budgeting; tendering; costing; implementation of systems and procedures (including ISO9001 and 4801); directorship and the efficient running of boards; and facilitating to family business. Don has qualifications in Cost and Management Accounting, Business Management, and Writing, and has Diplomas in Accounting (Advanced), Quality Auditing, and OHS. Don is also a graduate of the IFAP Lead Auditor course, and the AICD Company Directors.
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ICT, Digital and Professional Services
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Melissa Anderson Sector Director – ICT, Digital and Professional Services, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Mobile: 0456 962 887 [email protected]
Background Melissa is the Entrepreneurs’ Programme Sector Director for ICT, Digital and Professional Services Melissa has a background in the SME sector in both China and Australia. Originally commencing with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Shanghai, China, Melissa went on to found and direct a successful IT and business consulting enterprise in Shanghai and co-found and direct a construction and manufacturing company with operations across China. Melissa has consulted within the SME and corporate sector in Australia across a variety of industries in a range of fields including; strategy, international trade and market development, marketing, product development and management systems. Melissa has also worked in an executive strategy role in the insurance and finance industry in Australia and participated in the leadership team of Australia’s second largest financial industry merger. More recently Melissa was engaged as General Manager of a medium sized enterprise in Australia in the medical/pharmaceutical industry with a focus on market development, innovation, and international expansion.
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Christopher Kelleher, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Newcastle, NSW Mobile: 0438 562 401 [email protected]
Background Chris is a Business Adviser for the Entrepreneurs’ Programme in ICT, Digital and Professional Services and the Advanced Manufacturing sector. Chris has extensive experience in, invention commercialisation, capital raising, contracts negotiation, licensing of new technology and selling new concepts and ideas to business. In his current role, Chris is responsible for supporting businesses to remain sustainable through establishing winning strategies for growth. Chris is passionate about the need for innovation, leadership and performance improvement in business. Chris has held executive roles in health, manufacturing and construction. More recently he held an executive role as the CEO of the University of Newcastle Commercialisation Firm, Newcastle Innovation. Chris is a Judge for the annual Hunter Manufacturing awards. He has held board member positions with the Australian Chamber of Manufacturers, WEA Hunter Ltd, Newman Community Housing, Mobilize Pty Ltd, Mineral Carbonation International, Therapy, and Probiotic Health. He was also a member of the inaugural board of the Hunter Business.
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Anna Samios, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Sydney and surrounds, NSW Mobile: 0418 810 282 [email protected]
Background Anna Samios is an experienced external Board Adviser to mid-market companies who are driven by excellence and wish to build capability and manage growth using a proven strategic framework. With over 30 years’ experience in the financial and strategic space, from the big end of town to mum and dad businesses, Anna's unique collaboration style brings out the best in all. Amongst her numerous qualifications Anna is a Gazelles International Coach, working with the proven Scaling Up/Rockefeller framework, as used by Atlassian, Wholefoods Market, Greencross Vets (Pet Barn), RedBalloon, Infusionsoft, rackspace and so on. She has extensive experience in financial performance analysis, corporate governance, trend analysis, managing teams; both domestic and outsourced, as well as Project Manager for SaaS assessments and implementations across a wide range of industries. Anna was invited by the NSW Government to mentor over 180 businesses (predominantly small-medium sized businesses) and mentor in their Women in Business Mentoring Programme. She has also lectured at the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons on business strategy.
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Anna frequently travels overseas to source the most cutting edge techniques in Scaling Up. With an insatiable desire to learn and an unquenchable bias for action, her lateral strategic thinking and people skills are well sought-after. An Adviser who walks her talk: She has run her own business, with her husband Peter, for over 25 years.
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John Keegan, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0411 811 800 [email protected]
Background John’s career began in the mining industry before progressing to management consulting with Pricewaterhouse Cooper, focusing on strategy and productivity improvements in the manufacturing, engineering and logistics areas. John then founded a national facilities management company (now Resolve FM, part of RCR Ltd) servicing manufacturers, defence, utilities and large commercial building owners. Over 11 years the business grew to 800 staff and $170 million turnover. The business was sold to Tyco and John subsequently undertook reviews of Tyco manufacturing and service businesses including fire protection, security, electrical, air conditioning, hydraulics and facilities management.
John has line management and management consulting experience in the mining, manufacturing and infrastructure related construction industries, including companies such as BHP, Peko-Wallsend, Kellogg’s, Carlton United Brewery, Smith’s Snackfoods, Johnson & Johnson, GMH and Boral. He has reviewed over 140 SMEs for the Entrepreneurs’ Programme during the past seven years.
John has a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Business
Administration.
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Tony Shannon, NSW
Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0417 255 524 [email protected]
Background Tony worked for 20 years in senior management roles in digital and e-commerce businesses and professional services including as part of the management team for a digital media IPO. Tony is a specialist in the 21st century business environment – for digital and non-digital businesses. He has a keen interest and experience in strategy development, business model innovation, technology in business, platform development, e-commerce, joint-ventures, and creating and exploiting intellectual property such as using algorithms to disrupt industries. Tony has eight years’ experience as a Business Adviser with the Entrepreneurs’ Programme. During this time, he has completed over 120 Business Evaluations and also works as part of the Growth Services team. He holds a Master of Management and a Bachelor of Arts (Professional Writing). Tony was a board member of the Digital Sydney Advisory Team and tutors in the business faculties at Australian Film Television & Radio School (AFTRS) and University Technology, Sydney (UTS).
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Fabian Seibold, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0407 527 969 [email protected]
Background Fabian is a senior executive and organisation leader, highly experienced in successful strategy formulation, organisational transformation and realisation of results in competitive customer focused environments. Fabian has held various international leadership positions for Siemens, Nokia and Hewlett Packard, including responsibility for operations, strategy and business development across Australia, New Zealand and Asia-Pacific. Fabian offers extensive experience across multiple industry sectors including telecommunications, IT, manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, professional services and finance. He is adept at applying and transferring business models and learnings across industries and has an exceptional achievement record through a disciplined, methodical and inclusive approach. Fabian is a dual Australian and German citizen, holds a Master of Business Administration and has completed studies in Finance, Economics and Marketing.
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Kent Kavanagh, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0424 138 244 [email protected]
Background Kent has nearly twenty years’ experience in advisory, corporate and investment banking, strategy and risk management across SME, corporate and institutional clients. Kent’s roles have included senior management and business development roles in Australia and internationally at General Electric (GE) and Macquarie Bank along with detailed modelling and financial analysis at ANZ Bank (Group Treasury) and AXA Asia Pacific (Actuarial). Kent also co-founded an innovative socially/environmentally conscious business and has worked closely with a wide range of Australian R&D companies and start-ups. With a proven ability to understand the numbers within a business, he has the ability to quickly understand the true value drivers of a business while also working to build strong, productive relationships with business owners and executives. This approach leads to a logical, considered and engaging process for helping to improve business performance. In addition to completing numerous leadership and management development programs at GE and Macquarie, Kent holds a Master of Finance from INSEAD (France) along with a Bachelor of Mathematical Science (Pure Mathematics) from Central Queensland University (Rockhampton).
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Kerri Turner, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0402 124 771 [email protected]
Background Kerri is an outcome focused strategist with over 16 years’ experience at Ernst & Young and four years’ experience building a startup digital marketplace to a successful business. Kerri has held a number of board positions for organisations including the Malthouse Theatre and The Centre for Contemporary Photography. Kerri's extensive experience in financial due diligence and transaction advisory is complemented by a contemporary approach to building market share with a focus on digital environments. Kerri is an experienced operational leader who builds and facilitates a culture that ensures service delivery excellence. With exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, Kerri is adept at holding high level conversations and generating energy and enthusiasm.
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Ian Nearhos, QLD
Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0418 803 957 [email protected]
Background Ian has broad commercial experience including senior management and leadership positions in large organisations and SMEs. He has overseen the creation of significant value through the development and delivery of highly successful business growth strategies, and operational improvement initiatives. His expertise is in effectively engaging with stakeholders to discover and evaluate business challenges, and map them to optimal solutions. Ian’s experience includes working in an ASX listed IT company that provides market-leading, business technology solutions throughout Australia and Asia-Pacific. He was also a General Manager with one of Australia's leading print and collateral management service providers, driving business expansion and digital transformation. Prior to this, he was a State Sales Manager with a multi-national business administration supplier that was ASX listed in Australia with over $1 billion in revenue. This experience has delivered multifaceted skills across sales, marketing, IT and operations with a clear understanding of what is required to deliver great business outcomes. Ian’s skills and experience are underpinned by strong academic credentials including a Master of Business Administration, Graduate Diploma in Management, and Postgraduate Certificate in Business.
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Rob Olver, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0410 564 299 [email protected]
Background Rob is an experienced Business Adviser and mentor, skilled in helping business innovate and grow in the digital economy. He has an extensive career in marketing, media, technology and digital innovation. Rob founded an advertising agency in his 20’s and launched and managed the Microsoft brand in Australia and Asia Pacific region for its first ten years. He has worked with many leading Australian brands over the past 20 years; guiding them online, advising on their digital strategies and building their marketing platforms. Rob has a deep, practical understanding of the digital landscape and the technologies driving today’s consumers and proactively works with his clients to explore new business models and transformative strategies that will drive growth. He is well versed in creative brand development and digital marketing technologies and has a keen interest in user-centric design principles. Rob has considerable experience with start-up and scale-up businesses, mentoring and assisting them with digital strategy, brand and marketing. He is also personally passionate about creating collaborative, commercialisation opportunities between start-ups and established businesses.
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Stephen Schmid, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business SA Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0417 835 627 [email protected]
Background Steve is a Business Adviser and consultant with broad experience across many industry sectors and business disciplines. As a former business owner, Steve took products from concept, IP protection and multiple rounds of venture capital to full commercialisation— so he understands the priorities for start-ups and SMEs. Steve has worked with national and international large organisations and governments on the mechanics of leveraging technologies to increase the sustainability, resiliency and effectiveness of their operation. Steve is experienced in process improvement, program management and organisational design. He can provide holistic advice for companies looking at options to grow their business and explore opportunities that will have a positive influence not only on the balance sheet, but on its people and processes. Steve has extensive business networks in South Australia and provides tailored advice and assistance to support SMEs to improve their competitiveness and productivity. Steve has a Masters in Science and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Andrew Canion, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA East Perth, WA Mobile: 0419 928 269 [email protected]
Background Andrew provides business advisory services to firms that provide enabling technologies and services in Infrastructure related Construction and ICT and Professional Services. Andrew has held senior positions within large organisations and State Government. In these roles he worked across areas including finance, mergers and acquisitions, operational management and logistics, and governance and advocacy. Andrew also has direct experience as a business owner, having owned his own successful firm together with his wife. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics and Commercial Law), an Advanced Diploma in Leadership and Management, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Sonya Henderson-Edbrooke, QLD Business Design Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0417 720 726 [email protected]
Background Sonya has over 30 years’ experience in business and the creative industries, including management and creative roles in design, advertising, instructional design/training, interactive media, customer-led innovation and business consulting in the United States and Australia. For the past several years, she has acted as business advisor to over 100 SMEs as well as mentoring and training a variety of manufacturing and service companies through the deep organisational and strategic change required to align their organisation to the needs of their customers and users. As a Design Adviser, she facilitates their attainment of new knowledge and capabilities so they can operate independently to become a customer-led innovator and stand as a leader in their industry. One of the main reasons the customer-centered view so resonates with Sonya is its pragmatic approach to integrating a business around a deeper understanding of its customers. Sonya’s purpose is to help owners design their business to win by understanding the needs of their customers and integrating those insights across the organisation through customer-centered strategies and actions.
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David Schloeffel, VIC Business Design Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Caulfield East, VIC Mobile: 0414 636 613 [email protected]
Background David has been working to help Australian businesses improve for over 35 years. Starting his career in advertising with clients in the food, chemical and transport industries, he has since assisted an extensive portfolio of companies across many sectors. David has also successfully established, grown and managed his own businesses, and understands the challenges and opportunities facing Australian business managers. Design has played a vital part of David’s whole career, and certainly the work he has been doing for over a decade to help clients improve has been based on solid design thinking led business design principles. David is an accomplished presenter, having spoken nationally and internationally on a variety of topics including, strategy, brand, design thinking, business design and digital emergence. David has also lectured seasonally at postgraduate level for nearly 20 years, and is currently lecturing in Masters programs at the RMIT University College of Business.
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Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals
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Ashley Bates
Sector Director – Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals Mobile: 0417 118 975 [email protected]
Background
Ashley is the Sector Director for Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals. Ashley has a PhD in chemistry and he has worked in the biomedical Industry for around 25 years in the UK, USA and Australia. During this time Ashley has held senior roles in new product development, business development and licensing. Ashley has a deep understanding of the commercialisation of biomedical innovation gained from over ten years overseeing GlaxoSmithKline’s engagement with Australian SMEs and publically funded research organisations, working with Australian SMEs and as the National Executive with responsibility for the medical sector at the Manufacturing Excellence Taskforce Australia (META). Ashley is passionate about the Australian Medical Technology and Pharmaceuticals industry and has served on a number of boards including academic, NFPs, Cooperative Research Centres and industry associations.
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Ken Long, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0449 901 600 [email protected]
Background Ken is an experienced Business Adviser with over 30 years’ senior management experience. Over the past seven years Ken has completed more than 120 business evaluations. He now specialises in the Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals sector. Ken has broad industry and commercial skills, having spent time working as a lawyer, as well as in electricity and gas deregulation; IT commercialisation; and leadership development facilitation for tier one companies in resources, construction, and energy. He specialises in business strategy development and implementation, business development, sales and marketing; strategic service design, organisational innovation, and continuous improvement. He is experienced in a number of industries including construction, energy efficiency, recycling, sustainable housing, engineering, environmental, software development, and consulting. Ken has achieved significant success in assisting companies in emerging markets and with high growth potential. Ken is highly qualified in business disciplines, holding a Doctorate of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Laws, and a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting).
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Ged Wallace, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Ai Group Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0455 045 133 [email protected]
Background Ged’s executive career has included regional president roles, representing multinational corporations in Asia and Europe. Senior functional oversight included sales and marketing, manufacturing and logistics, quality and regulatory, HR, finance and health economics. Senior executive and board roles with smaller Australian and UK med-techs have involved Ged in capital raising and the global commercialisation of start-ups. He has been involved in many therapeutic areas including cardiology, renal medicine, vascular, oncology, anaesthesia, gastroenterology, surgery, hematology, urology, with single-use devices, reusable products, and capital equipment. This has enabled him to deal with diverse business challenges in disparate geographic and cultural environments. Ged has a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration. He holds graduate qualifications (Med Tech and MBA) in business and well developed financial, compliance and relationship skills. He is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Angus Rose, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0476 722 825 [email protected]
Background Angus has had a diverse career that includes working as a banking and finance lawyer for various blue-chip organisations in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, owning and co-founding two start-ups, and representing government as an Investment Director for the Australian Trade Commission in San Francisco and as an Industry Engagement Officer for the City of Gold Coast. Possessing a unique blend of business, legal and government expertise, Angus understands the many issues and challenges SMEs face as they grow their operations, and as a Business Adviser he will be focusing on the Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals sector in south-east Queensland. His formal qualifications include a Bachelor of Law (Hons) and Bachelor of Commerce (Hons).
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Jeremy Barker, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Deloitte Private Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0400 569 121 [email protected]
Background Jeremy is an outcomes oriented CEO, Senior Executive and Churchill Fellow with an entrepreneurial outlook and proven ability to create, build and run successful technology based businesses. With a pragmatic approach to business, combined with post graduate qualifications in biological science and commerce, Jeremy has established and built two businesses, restructured and grown three others. He takes pride in developing high performing teams to deliver shareholder value in the quickly evolving technological sector. His 25 year multi-industry experience covers aquaculture, biotechnology, data analytics and healthcare IT in the Australian, New Zealand, Indonesian, European and Canadian markets. Jeremy is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Australian Governance Institute and by sitting on and reporting to the Board of Directors understands governance and how to deliver against strategic intent.
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Dr. Julie White, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0412 357 891 [email protected]
Background Dr. White has over 25 years’ experience working in the health and medical research sector. She has worked for large multinational pharmaceutical companies such as Wyeth, MSD and Cerebrus (now Vernalis in Europe). Julie has held the positions of CEO, Managing Director and Executive Chair in publicly listed and private start-up companies in Australia. Julie has also been the CEO and Deputy CEO of two Cooperative Research Centres (CRC), the CRC for Chronic Inflammatory Diseases and the CRC for Polymers. Currently, Julie is providing consulting services to the biotechnology sector engaging in large projects with universities, private companies, investors and government.
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Mike Sewell, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0409 512 578 [email protected]
Background Mike is experienced in growing revenue, productivity and profitability, and has successfully grown several SMEs in metering, print, warehousing and logistics, and medical research. This depth of experience has proven invaluable in delivering services on behalf of the Entrepreneurs' Programme. Mike works with clients to develop action plans that the business can implement over 12 months to create long term value in the client’s business. Mike's focus is in the Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals sector. Mike’s client base includes clients in medical devices, medical technologies, pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical supply chains. Mike also provides Growth Services, where he works with clients with a clear growth opportunity. This service offers the capacity to add significant value to the business for up to two years to help clients on their path to success.
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Geoff Brazier, WA
Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme CCIWA Perth, WA Mobile: 0419 585 878 [email protected]
Background Geoff has been a Business Adviser since 2015. His focus is on the Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals sector. Geoff's background covers a wide range of industries in various roles, from senior management to business ownership, and business consulting in Australia, the United Kingdom and United States of America. Geoff has first-hand experience in leading businesses through growth, developing and introducing new products to market, and enjoys assisting businesses to learn and achieve their goals. Geoff is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Chris Harnett, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Ai Group
Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0427 233 434 [email protected]
Background Chris is an experienced executive within the pathology, pharmaceutical and medical device industry, with extensive leadership and project experience acquired in a variety of global organisational contexts over 25 years. He has a passion for facilitating innovation and developing sustainability within organisations, an ability to form strong business relationships and undertake market analysis to develop relevant strategies that achieve significant market adoption of products or services to meet a market need. Chris has experience in liaising with government, university academia, healthcare institutions and industry, resulting in the development of strong relationships at a senior level. He offers a highly sophisticated suite of competencies acquired through leading organisations to achieve commercialisation and realise their strategic goals and objectives, managing people, processes and delivering outstanding outcomes. Chis possesses complimentary post graduate qualifications in business (Med Tech and Master of Business Administration) and well developed financial, compliance and relationship skills.
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Mining Equipment, Technology and Services and Oil, Gas and Energy Resources
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Nick Poll Sector Director – Mining Equipment, Technology and Services and Oil, Gas and Energy Resources, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Mobile: 0417 006 172 [email protected]
Background
Nick has over 28 years’ experience in the technical, business and corporate development of mining projects internationally. He was co-founder and Managing Director of Mirabela Nickel Limited and led the discovery, development and construction of the Santa Rita nickel project in Brazil. Santa Rita is the largest nickel sulphide discovery in two decades, one of the largest open-pit nickel mines and was built within a record five years – from first drill hole to first nickel production. Since Mirabela, Nick has been involved in many entrepreneurial projects in a broad range of industries and is passionate about using a mentoring based approach to help people, teams and companies to make a difference and do things in a different way. Nick has a BSc (Hons) from the University of Western Australia, an MSc in Geology from the Colorado School of Mines and an MSc from the Sloan Masters in Leadership and Strategy Programme at London Business School. He speaks fluent French and Portuguese and is a member of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Nick is also a non-executive director of MEC Mining.
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Ross Carter, NSW Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Austmine Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0411 521 162 [email protected]
Background Ross offers 30 years of insight into the Australian Resources, Contracting, Mining and Industrial Services. As a Business Facilitator, Ross brings a "best practice" but also practical approach to uncovering the real challenges faced when providing completed service offerings to major industrial and mining clients. With proven experience to identify and win the work to deliver such solutions, he has led high performing teams, creating alignment across client needs, service delivery and results.
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Marianne Cummings, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Austmine Newcastle, NSW Mobile: 0401 029 813 [email protected]
Background Marianne is an experienced Business Adviser who combines strong business analysis skills with a common sense approach to facilitate improvements in profitability, innovation, and productivity. Marianne specialises in assisting clients from a variety of industries who supply to the resources sector. She enjoys working with clients to identify their real issues and barriers to growth and plan strategic pathways. She uses her strong networks and highly developed relationship management skills to support clients transitioning through change. As a business consultant, Marianne spent over 15 years working with SME clients and organisations such as the NSW Department of Trade and Investment and HunterNet. She has held senior management roles with Lifeline Newcastle’s commercial arm and senior relationship management roles in Commonwealth Bank Australia Business Banking. Marianne holds the following qualifications: Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Marketing), Post Graduate Diploma of Management, Certificate IV Training and Assessment, and Strategic Alliance Building – Partnership Broker Level 1
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Clare Newton, NSW Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
NSW Business Chamber Newcastle, NSW Mobile: 0421 050 131 [email protected]
Background Clare has worked in a wide range of private sector manufacturing companies, ranging from food manufacturing to mining services. Responsibilities included quality management systems and process improvement, production management, business analysis, new product development and demand planning. Clare has a strong background in lean manufacturing and has implemented several process improvement projects. As a consultant, Clare has conducted long term engagements with several large industrial clients in a project management capacity, managing process improvement projects including supply chain management, waste reduction, staff development, strategic decision making, and asset optimisation. Clare has a Bachelor of Engineering (Manufacturing and Materials) from the University of Queensland.
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Joe Ippolito, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Austmine Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0411 069 353 [email protected]
Background Joe works closely with SME businesses engaged in the resources industry spanning the oil and gas, coal and hard rock sectors. The SME businesses range from product suppliers to service and technology providers that have as their customers, major project owners and tier one contractors. He has worked with over 200 businesses, across a range of business cycles from the planning and construction phase to the maintenance and, in some cases, the shut-down phase. This has enabled Joe to gain a deep understanding of the business drivers across all the various cycles of the resources industry. Joes’ work provides SMEs with additional resources and tools to critically assess their business and their business model. Central to this is providing opportunities to access specific assistance, and connections within the industry. The end goal is to assist businesses meet the requirements of their major buyers. Joe’s experience includes roles with major listed companies across finance, operational, marketing and strategic planning. Joe’s qualifications include a Masters majoring in Finance and Taxation. He is a Chartered Accountant and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
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Neil Platt, QLD
Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Austmine Mackay, QLD Mobile: 0429 438 777 [email protected]
Background Neil has been involved in the resources and manufacturing sectors for the past 20 years, and works closely with resources, technology and manufacturing businesses through his role as a Business Adviser. He is a highly effective senior management professional with extensive experience in business management, human resource strategies, and integrated management systems. Previously, Neil was a General Manager for a large engineering company with a turnover of over $50 million supplying products and services to the resources sector. His expertise includes continuous improvement programs, project management, knowledge management, organisational development initiatives, and he is a lean manufacturing practitioner. Neil also spent 23 years in the Royal Australian Air Force as a Systems Engineer. Neil has a Bachelor of Teaching, Graduate Diploma in Computer Based Learning, Graduate Certificate in Management, Diploma of Engineering and a Diploma of Competitive Manufacturing. In addition, Neil also has qualifications as an Integrated Management Systems Auditor (Quality, Safety and Environmental).
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Victor Hilliard, SA
Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Business SA Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0420 961 294 [email protected]
Background Vic is a solution focused senior financial executive with a career spanning over 20 years in CFO and senior commercial management roles. Vic has a track record of leadership, the ability to embrace the 'big picture' and achievement, encompassing the development and execution of strategies to deliver continuous improvement and profitable growth. Vic has significant experience across the METs and OGER sectors in the institution of effective management and operating controls, systems implementations, re-engineering of management reporting to deliver meaningful information, identifying business drivers and developing KPI reporting and analytics. In recent years, Vic has been assisting organisations effectively transforming and streamlining their finance, commercial and operational functions using methodologies learnt from The Boston Consulting Group and Booz-Allen Hamilton, as well as lean and Six Sigma. His experience in costing is extensive, given his manufacturing and resources experience. Professionally, Vic is a Fellow of CPA Australia and has an MBA from Deakin University. His experience spans private companies, ASX50 companies as well as foreign controlled entities.
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Dale Thompson, VIC Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Austmine Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0407 819 522 [email protected]
Background Dale has extensive experience in business improvement, business development, and sales and marketing in Australia and overseas. Dale has achieved significant results for his clients in the areas of strategic planning, risk management, change implementation and governance. As a Business Adviser, Dale has worked with over 150 businesses on improving the operations to reduce risk for business owners while improving the return on investment. He was also part of the team that developed the Resources Industry Supply Chain Index (RISCI), which measures a business’ readiness to enter the resources sector. Dale has now delivered RISCI to over 200 businesses. With commercial experience in mining equipment, explosives, ground support, and geotechnical instrumentation, as well as the marine markets in Australia and Asia, Dale has a wealth of practical experience. Dale has a Diploma in Civil Engineering and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and Swinburne Institute of Technology.
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Victor Hilliard, SA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Business SA
Adelaide, SA
Mobile: 0420 961 294 [email protected]
Background
Vic is a solution focused Senior Financial Executive with a career spanning over 20 years in CFO and Senior Commercial Management roles. Vic has a track record of leadership, the ability to embrace the 'big picture' and achievement encompassing the development and execution of strategies to deliver continuous improvement and profitable growth.
Vic has significant experience across the METs and OGER sectors in the institution of effective management and operating controls, systems implementations, re-engineering of management reporting to deliver meaningful information, identifying business drivers and developing KPI reporting and analytics.
In recent years, Vic has been assisting organisations effectively transforming and streamlining their finance, commercial and operational functions using methodologies learnt from The Boston Consulting Group and Booz-Allen Hamilton, as well as Lean and Six Sigma. His experience in costing is extensive, given his manufacturing and resources experience. Professionally, Vic is a Fellow of CPA Australia and has an MBA from Deakin University. His experience spans private companies, ASX50 companies as well as foreign controlled entities.
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Angela Doyle, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business Foundations Fremantle, WA 6962 Mobile: 0405 390 059 [email protected]
Background Angela brings a broad range of business management skills, experience and qualifications to her role. This is derived from over 17 years in senior management roles which include General Manager and CEO positions, taking on responsibilities such as, financial management; human resource systems; sales and marketing; system improvements; production processes; strategic and business planning; and risk management, including occupational health and safety. Angela has worked across a wide range of industry sectors and has provided assistance to over 90 small to medium businesses, mainly in the regional and remote parts of Western Australia. This work includes business health analyses and recommendations aimed at improving business performance. Analysis tools used by Angela include Probe and Winning Measures (benchmarking) and departmental tools such as financial analysis programs. Angela frequently travels overseas to source the most cutting edge techniques in Scaling Up. With an insatiable desire to learn and an unquenchable bias for action, her lateral strategic thinking and people skills are well sought-after. An Adviser who walks her talk: she has run her own business, with her husband Peter, for over 25 years.
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Martin Collard, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Austmine Perth, WA Mobile: 0449 901 615 [email protected]
Background Martin is a proactive strategic business excellence leader, change agent, and mentor with an impressive track record of managing and delivering tangible business improvements across a variety of sectors and industries with a focus on the Western Australian resources sector. Martin has worked extensively with many service and manufacturing businesses within the Mining Equipment, Technology and Services and Oil, Gas and Energy Resources sectors. Martin’s specialties include business capability improvement through business guidance linked to realistic improvement action plans, strategic thinking and best practice management mentoring based on lean principles. Martin holds technical qualifications in mechanical engineering, composite engineering and polymer technology. He also has a Diploma in Management and Executive Master of Business Administration.
Martin is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and WA President of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) and Industry Expert and Mentor for WA Leaders.
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John Hanlin, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA
Perth, WA
Mobile: 0405 152 049
Background
Jon's professional background spans over 30 years with both owner/manager and consulting/advisory experience in the Mining and Mining Services, Energy, Government, Not for Profit, Recycling, IT, Health, Property, Banking and Finance, Civil Construction, Engineering and Education sectors.
The majority of these businesses have been SME’s and startups where the assistance and expertise provided includes strategy development, financial management, business development, operational improvement and innovation & change. He has held various positions including Chairman, CEO, CFO, Group Strategy & Business Development, and Assistant Treasury Manager.
Jon works with METS (mining equipment, technologies and services), oil & gas and energy resources companies to review their business, and provide advice and recommendations to foster growth opportunities.
Jon holds a Masters of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Economics Degree from the University of Western Australia, as well as a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance from FINSIA.
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Nick Lehmann, NT Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA
Darwin, NT
Mobile: 0427 986 401
Background Nick's background is in Financial Services and Oil & Gas and works in the METS & OGER sector as well as other sectors. He is a UK qualified chartered accountant and been the CFO of a number of companies including multinationals (Jardines and Royal Bank of Scotland Group) as well being the CFO of an O & G Exploration and Production National oil Company in the Gulf region.
He has good supply chain and project management experience as well as economic and financial forecasting.
He was the founding CEO of two Finance Companies in the Gulf (UAE) lending into the O&G, construction and general commercial asset financing market.
Nick has a B.Sc Mathematics from London University, a M.Sc. in Management Science from Imperial College London, is a FCA as well as an associate of the Chartered Insurance and Chartered Banking Institutes.
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Tourism
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Cam Charlton Sector Director – Tourism, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Mobile: 0418 773 737 [email protected]
Background
Cam is founder and Managing Director of Kleinhardt Pty Ltd which has provided business and regional economic development services, across regional Australia, Papua New Guinea (PNG), Asia and the South Pacific since 1987. His background in law and insolvency practice provides him with in-depth experience in issues leading to company failure and more importantly recovery. Positions held and assignments completed for the Tourism sector include:
Chairman of Judges Panel for the 2014 TTNQ Regional Tourism Awards.
Chairman of Australian Tourism Awards (2010 – 2013).
Chairman of Judges for Queensland Tourism Awards 2006 – 2009.
Four years Chairman, and 10 years Director, of Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ), the largest regional tourism authority in Australia.
Prepared and delivered “Tourism Development Through Collaboration” seminar series for tourism operators in Fremantle, Broome and Kununurra Western Australia in 2014, under an AusIndustry program.
Lead consultant for development of the Samoan Tourism Development Plan.
Lead consultant in formulation of an integrated Tourism Development Action Plan for Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait.
Formulation of the Tourism Policy Statement of the National Government of PNG.
Project Director, in development of a Standards Framework for Australia’s Export Tourism Industry, and Export Tourism Business Benchmarks.
Cam’s present appointments include membership of the James Cook University Council. As such, he is playing a part in achieving the university’s vision of being
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the pre-eminent university of the tropics, consolidating their Cairns, Townsville and Singapore campuses. He is an accredited consultant for Indigenous Business Australia (“IBA”), with a strong appreciation of issues relevant to indigenous businesses and communities.
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Graham Poon, QLD Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Cairns, QLD Mobile: 0448 951 454 [email protected]
Background Graham has over 30 years commercial experience accumulated in Australia, south-east Asia, north Asia, Guam, Micronesia and the Pacific, as well as in the private sector and at local, state and federal government levels. Graham’s business background includes tourism management and operations in Australia and overseas, retail, management consulting and finance broking. He provides strategic planning for various community organisations and has been a member of Cairns Regional Council’s Sister Cities Advisory Committee and the Multicultural Advisory Committee. Graham applies his knowledge to the Cairns business community from his previous role as Austrade Trade Commissioner where he helped Australian companies access projects funded by the Asian Development Bank and other development institutions such as AusAID and the World Bank. He has held positions as CEO of TropLinks in the field of Tropical Expertise, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory (NT), Austrade Regional Trade Commissioner NT and General Manager of a major tourism operation in Guam. Graham was educated at the University of Queensland.
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Graham Bell, QLD Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Cairns, QLD Mobile: 0418 832 220 [email protected]
Background Graham has extensive practical experience from owning and managing businesses in a wide range of industries as well as consulting and training others for more than 30 years. Based in Cairns, Graham services all of north Queensland using his extensive experience in tourism, destination development, product marketing and staff training to assist clients. Graham also has a range of qualifications in business management, adult education, organisational development, project management and quality auditing. This is coupled with Industry Certification as a Risk Assessment Facilitator. Additionally, DISC Advanced and APEC Business Counsellor Accreditation provide an ideal platform for Graham to use his skills and passion to help SMEs develop rapid growth strategies.
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Philip Cox, WA Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Broome, WA Mobile: 0428 242 891 [email protected]
Background Phil has extensive experience, working across all facets of the tourism and hospitality industry. Specialising in tourism business development, Phil has owned, operated upmarket, personalised touring operations, bed and breakfast properties and restaurants catering for both inbound international and domestic markets. In addition, Phil has managed a large, successful, award winning tourism and wilderness lodge operation in the Kimberley and an iconic tourism attraction in Albany, Western Australia. He has held numerous tourism board positions including, Vice President of the Broome Chamber of Commerce and Business and has been instrumental in mentoring many businesses to achieve broader distribution and assisting in collaboration for regional recognition as Industry Liaison Adviser for a regional tourism organisation. Phil excels in the facilitation of development especially for remote, emerging tourism regions in northern Australia.
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Rachel Telford, NT Business Adviser, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Darwin, NT Mobile: 0418 473 853 [email protected]
Background Rachel has a diverse background in tourism and hospitality in the public and private sectors. Her roles have included events, marketing, investment attraction and tourism development. With a solid track record in senior business and economic development roles in Western Australia and the Northern Territory, she has an excellent knowledge of the destinations, networks and importantly the key drivers of success for developing and operating tourism ventures in regional settings. Rachel thrives on being able to make a difference to businesses, by understanding their unique goals and aspirations, and by working with them to develop practical strategies targeted at improving their business performance. Among a variety of other interests, Rachel has been a judge for the State Tourism Awards program (Western Australia and Northern Territory) and is currently on the Board of the Australia China Business Council of the Northern Territory. Rachel’s qualifications include a Master of Business (Marketing) and a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing).
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Business Facilitation Services
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Keith Calvert Sector Director – Business Facilitation Services, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Mobile: 0420 961 125 [email protected]
Background Keith has held various leadership positions within the Department’s flagship Business Advisory program(s) over the past eight years. He helped establish the Australian Industry Productivity Centre program in Tasmania in 2008 and continued to manage the program as State Director through the evolution to Enterprise Connect and then the Entrepreneurs’ Programme. In addition to this State Director role, Keith also led the ‘National Tourism Network’, managed Tasmania and Victoria during the transition to the Entrepreneurs’ Programme and went on to be co-Director of Food and Agribusiness for the Entrepreneurs’ Programme nationally. His current role within the program is Director of Business Facilitation, which encompasses the ‘Supply Chain Facilitation’ services. Keith’s private enterprise experience has centered on regional economic development, Food and Agribusiness and the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector. Career highlights include launching Australia’s first organic infant formula, and being part of establishing two nationally recognised food brands. Keith holds a Bachelor of Science (Aquaculture) (Hons).
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Mike Goodman, NSW Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Council Newcastle, NSW Mobile: 0405 337 306 [email protected]
Background Mike provides professional facilitation services, with specialisations in business growth, supply chain innovation and building commercial alliances. Mike was a Business Adviser for more than four years, providing operational assessments, strategic advice, new ideas and valuable connections to small and medium businesses across many industry sectors. An innovative thinker and catalyst for growth, Mike brings more than 35 years corporate experience across varied B2B and Fast Moving Consumer Goods environments. This includes 16 years in global marketing and business development where he helped a number of Australian technology companies to establish substantial presence in the United States, Europe and Asia. Mike has recently completed postgraduate qualifications in sustainable business and attended the Leadership 21 executive education program with Mt Eliza Business School. He is also a member of the Partnership Broking Association.
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Anthony Holzwart, QLD Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Austmine Toowoomba, QLD Mobile: 0408 630 441 [email protected]
Background As a Business Facilitator for the Mining Equipment, Technology and Services sector, Anthony develops and manages projects nationally that bridge the gap between the needs and requirements of procurement teams in mining, oil and gas and the improved performance of their suppliers. Anthony has a long track record of assisting SMEs realise their full potential. His approach is straightforward and practical — do what matters most and, wherever possible, avoid the mistakes of others. Working in a range of private and public sector roles, Anthony has provided assistance to hundreds of businesses, predominantly in the mining, oil and gas, civil construction and manufacturing sectors. Each of these interactions has provided practical insights into what works, what doesn’t and where potential can often be found. As a Principal Economic Development Officer within the Queensland Government, Anthony has also spent a number of years working closely with a range of major proponents and upper tier suppliers to interpret their procurement needs at both construction and operation/maintenance stages. Equipped with this knowledge and understanding, and committed to achieving a win-win outcome, he has played a key role in developing and delivering a range of supplier improvement initiatives.
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Graham Poon, QLD Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Cairns, QLD Mobile: 0448 951 454 [email protected]
Background Graham has over 30 years commercial experience accumulated in Australia, south-east Asia, north Asia, Guam, Micronesia and the Pacific, as well as in the private sector and at local, state and federal government levels. Graham’s business background includes tourism management and operations in Australia and overseas, retail, management consulting and finance broking. He provides strategic planning for various community organisations and has been a member of Cairns Regional Council’s Sister Cities Advisory Committee and the Multicultural Advisory Committee. Graham applies his knowledge to the Cairns business community from his previous role as Austrade Trade Commissioner where he helped Australian companies access projects funded by the Asian Development Bank and other development institutions such as AusAID and the World Bank. He has held positions as CEO of TropLinks in the field of Tropical Expertise, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory (NT), Austrade Regional Trade Commissioner NT and General Manager of a major tourism operation in Guam. Graham was educated at the University of Queensland.
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Ross Contarino, QLD Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Townsville, QLD Mobile: 0418 783 502 [email protected]
Background Ross delivers specialised supply chain facilitation services across north Queensland. He has a long and distinguished career in economic development through several Regional Development Organisations across northern Queensland. Ross was an elected member in local government before entering an economic development role for a north Queensland shire council. He has since worked in economic development roles in all levels of government. He worked as the AusIndustry north Queensland Regional Manager before taking on the role of Chief Executive Officer for Advance Cairns, and then General Manager Economic Development and Corporate Services for sister organisation Townsville Enterprise Limited. Ross has a Master of Business Administration, is a member of Economic Development Australia and a Management Committee member.
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James Scotland, QLD Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Brisbane, QLD Mobile 0437 490 110 [email protected]
Background With an extensive career as a senior manager in widely different industries, followed by several years as a business consultant, strategist, corporate trainer and small business owner, James is a highly experienced professional who can help Australian businesses improve, grow and succeed. His clients appreciate his ability to draw on his personal management experience combined with his practical understanding and application of the ‘theory’ of business. James has held senior roles in business development, strategic marketing and operations, and has worked extensively throughout metropolitan, regional and remote Australia. He is known for his highly developed interpersonal, communication, analytic and facilitation skills and his strong commitment to assisting clients to find and access hidden value in their businesses. James has a Master of International Management, a Graduate Certificate in Human Resources and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. He is a graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management, and a member of the Australian Marketing Institute.
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Mark Amirtharajah, VIC Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Geelong Manufacturing Council Ballarat, VIC Mobile: 0400 793 363
Background As a Business Facilitator, Mark delivers detailed supply chain facilitation services across the Entrepreneurs’ Programme’s key growth sectors. Mark works with both the buyers, customers and suppliers to optimise the operation of their supply chain while simultaneously helping to build the capability and capacity of those involved. Along with strong research and analytical skills, Mark has extensive strategic, economic, and managerial experience, and has a network of industry and government contacts along with a detailed understanding of drivers of business growth. Mark has extensive skills in negotiation, engagement and communication, which have been further developed during his roles as CEO in local government, and roles in state government and the private sector. He has successfully scoped and delivered a number of major infrastructure projects along with delivery of client-driven community based services. Mark holds a Master of Economics, a Graduate Diploma of Agricultural Economics and a Bachelor of Agricultural Science.
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Bryan Moroney, VIC Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Geelong Manufacturing Council Geelong, VIC Mobile: 0417 592 889
Background Bryan has extensive experience in management and facilitating business improvement across a range of industry sectors including resources, advanced manufacturing, food and beverage, energy efficiency, water, waste, tourism and agribusiness sectors. Bryan has worked in both the public and private sectors specialising in marketing and business development, stakeholder management, government relations and program management. Bryan’s recent work is specialised in understanding and reporting on supply chain relationships and how firms are performing within their specialisation. The aim of these engagements is to implement strategies that drive collaboration, business improvement and globally competitive businesses across regional and sectoral supply chains. Bryan’s work includes supplier capability assessment, supply chain and value chain analysis, destination marketing, industry development, stakeholder engagement, regional economic and tourism development, foreign direct investment. Bryan’s qualifications include a Master of Public Policy (Industry Strategy), Bachelor of Business, Prince2 Project Management (Foundation and Practitioner) and Partnership Broker (L1).
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Brett Henderson, VIC Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Geelong Manufacturing Council Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0400 710 377
Background With over 25 years of successful private, public and not-for-profit experience behind him, Brett has skills in delivering complex projects across multiple sectors and countries. This experience includes strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, business development, advisory and board member roles. Brett brings a global perspective with a practical approach to business. He is a strong advocate for agile, inclusive and collaborative leadership to create focussed results with positive impact. Brett is entrepreneurial as the founder of collaborative networks across Australia that connect, educate and inspire future business leaders to grow their businesses through exporting, innovation and commercialisation. Brett’s qualifications include a Master of International Business, Associate Diploma of Business, Diploma of Project Management and an Associate Diploma of Applied Science.
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Simon Williams, SA Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0407 806 700 [email protected]
Background Simon has extensive national and international experience in all aspects of sourcing, evaluating, funding and developing business opportunities. He has been a company director, investor, small business owner and has worked in large corporations. Simon’s previous roles include CEO of Itek (UniSA’s commercialisation company), State Manager of the Australian Institute for Commercialisation, and founded several small businesses. His directorships include six companies in the fields of clean technology, biotechnology and ICT. Simon has a background in finance and brings know-how in managing equity, knowledge transfer, intellectual property and negotiating partner agreements across research organisations and industry sectors both nationally and internationally. He provides professional facilitation services specialising in value chains and accelerating commercialisation. Simon’s formal qualifications include a Master of Entrepreneurship, Master of Environmental Studies, Bachelor of Economics and a Bachelor of Ethics. He was awarded an Alumni Fellow title at the University of Adelaide.
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Michael Beaton, WA Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Deloitte Private Perth, WA Mobile: 0418 601 222 [email protected]
Background Michael has over 20 years’ experience in various senior commercial and finance roles across a diverse range of industries, including agribusiness, FMCG, technology development (software and hardware), healthcare, consumer sporting and fashion goods, tourism, rail and ports. Having worked regionally for the last 15 years, Michael is also passionate about regional development and working with businesses on their local, national and international growth and development. He is currently the principal of a management consultancy firm which provides strategic commercial and financial advice to start-ups, SMEs and NFPs across a diversity of sectors. Michael has a Bachelor of Business (Major in Accounting), is a qualified CPA and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He is also a current NFP Director and Chair of the Finance Committee for a Regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisation.
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Sarah Jones, TAS Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Burnie, TAS Mobile: 0457 509 621 [email protected]
Background Sarah is an experienced Facilitator with a track record of supporting businesses across a range of sectors to better collaborate and grow. In recent years, she has led many projects including the establishment of a manufacturing network in north-west Tasmania and facilitated businesses to support individual and collective growth. Previously, Sarah held the position of General Manager, Industry Development and Clean Energy Council. This role focussed on working with the renewable energy industry to address areas of impediment to growth and promote best practice, as well as oversight of the accreditation scheme for solar installers nationally. Sarah commenced her career working with Victorian local government in strategic management and policy areas, including at the Municipal Association of Victoria managing the corporate and secretariat functions. Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Business (Local Government), and a Graduate Certificate in Business (Lean Leadership). She is currently completing a Master of Business Administration.
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Grant Peden, National Business Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group National Mobile: 0403 947 059 [email protected]
Background Grant delivers supplier improvement and business growth services to help Australian SMEs grow and become globally competitive. Previously, Grant was the Global Supply Chain Program Manager at global technology company Thales, where he worked with Australian companies to help them enter global supply chains. Grant has extensive expertise and experience in market intelligence, business strategy, leadership and organisational change. He uses his strong industry networks to facilitate the formation of strategic relationships and partnerships between businesses. Grant previously worked in management consulting as a trusted advisor to blue-chip clients. During this time, he honed his strong analytical, client relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills delivering business strategy, corporate strategy and marketing strategy projects. Earlier in his career he worked in venture capital, where he worked with high-potential early-stage companies to help them commercialise IP and accelerate growth. Grant’s formal qualifications include a Master of Business Administration and Master of Marketing and a Master’s degree.
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Innovation Connections
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Dave Fleming, NSW Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme CSIRO
Newcastle, NSW Mobile: 0408 689 430 [email protected]
Background Dave is an Innovation Connections Facilitator for the Newcastle, The Greater Hunter and Central Coast region of NSW. His role is to connect local companies with the technical expertise and state-of-the-art equipment available from publicly funded research organisations. These connections can then lead to collaborative R&D projects to help companies develop their commercial innovations with the support of the research organisation. Dave has spent the past 13 years working in a technology transfer and research business development role for the University of Newcastle through the R&D company Newcastle Innovation Ltd. He also has worked in the private sector, undertaking business development and business management roles for multinational and local companies.
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Peter Milic, NSW Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
CSIRO Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0447 633 790 [email protected]
Background Peter Milic has considerable multi sector experience that includes industrial biotechnology, biopharmaceuticals and food (FMCG). His skills include project and account management, business development, licensing and IP management. Initially Peter worked in the yeast industry as a fermentation expert then managed a team of food technologists primarily in the chilled dairy industry and more recently focused on technology commercialisation and the management of patent portfolios. Peter has held positions with Burns Philp, Temasek Life Sciences Laboratories (Singapore), Agrana, UNSW via their commercialisation company NewSouth Innovations, and most recently managed business development and IP for the Sydney based start-up, Microbiogen. He has a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in biotechnology/biochemistry (University of New South Wales) and has completed a Masters of Business Administration (Macquarie University).
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Gary Colquhoun, NSW Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business Foundations Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0458 011 855 [email protected]
Background Gary has over 19 years’ experience at the interface of industry, academia and government facilitating the commercialisation of corporate and academic research. With a background in photonics and laser engineering, his product management activity has led to new photonics and sensing products, services and processes in Environmental, Life Science, Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Military applications. He co-founded Fibre Photonics Ltd in 2006 with a Russian scientist, specialising in mid infrared fibre optics and grew the company to over £1M GBP of bootstrapped sales inside four years. He later took the company through ISO9001:2008 certification and moved to South Australia in 2012 to commercialise research from the university base. Gary has also worked as a consultant to the international Society for Photonics Instrumentation Engineers, increasing their engagement with the European Photonics industry. Here, he also implemented and chaired conferences on industrial photonics and imaging. As a strategically capable director, executive, manager and mentor Gary has also been an active council member for the Scottish Optoelectronics Association and was company secretary for the trade body for a period of two years.
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Mary Frey, NSW Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business Foundations Sydney, NSW Mobile: 0438 632 855 [email protected]
Background Mary has worked in the SME and University environment in the following sectors: water recycling, analytical mining services, IT, medical devices, biotech, silica components for the electronics industry and more recently marketing and finance analytics. Her business experience has been in the establishment, construction and operation of USFDA manufacturing facilities for the export market. She was one of three founding shareholders who implemented a business plan that formed the basis for a capital raising for Australia’s first biological stem cell storage facility currently known as “Cryosite” which originated from the University of NSW Centre for Immunology in 1999. The company listed on the ASX in 2002. Mary has been involved with R&D companies whose origins were University based both in the USA and Australia and she has worked as a catalyst, facilitator and champion of applied academic research for a number of years.
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Jacqui Watt, ACT Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme CSIRO Canberra, ACT Mobile: 0472 842 462 [email protected]
Background Jacqui is an Innovation Facilitator driven to propel organisations to break business barriers and expand commercial opportunities via world-shaping research initiatives and strategic partnerships. As part of the Innovation Connections element of the Entrepreneurs’ Programme and the CSIRO SME Connect team, Jacqui’s primary mission is to advance Australia’s business development potential via pioneering research projects, to position us as world leaders. With an in-depth appreciation of business strategy that realistically addresses needs while adding value, she can formulate business innovations via robust research initiatives and strategic partnerships. Jacqui is passionate about empowering others to ‘think bigger’ and stretch beyond their potential and goes above and beyond when collaboratively devising strategy with Australia’s business pioneers. She is a scholarship-awarded Ph.D. with a Juris Doctor underway.
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Mitch McGuire, QLD Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme NSW Business Chamber Gold Coast, QLD Mobile: 0429 053 139 [email protected]
Background Mitch has nearly 20 years' experience in the private and public sectors, across a range of roles and involvement in a variety of industries. Mitch has managed businesses, product and service lines, budgets and crises; raised capital and secured grants; and he has 'managed' boards and anxious shareholders, advised clients on various strategies and tactics. Mitch has overseen university partnerships, supplier relationships, intellectual property portfolios, IP infringement actions and court proceedings. Mitch is passionate about innovation and the role R&D plays, especially in small to medium enterprises, and where improving the lives and experiences of end-users and customers is the desired outcome. His involvement in the process of innovation execution, implementation and commercialisation (including failures) have led to valuable business lessons. Together with his own experiences over the last several years he is always looking for ways in which this emerging knowledge can be relevantly tested and applied to his clients for their benefit. Mitch enjoys sharing his ideas, suggestions and advice whenever a contribution will add value. He is a member of the International Society for Professional Innovation Management (ISPIM) and the Australian Institute of Management.
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Scott McNeil, QLD Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme CSIRO Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0467 764 486 [email protected]
Background Scott has had a diverse career that includes working as a research scientist in universities and business; a business analyst in a start-up biotechnology company; in industry engagement for the Queensland Government; and as a business consultant assisting SMEs to commercialise their products and services. This has enabled Scott to develop a clear understanding of the many issues and challenges SMEs face endeavoring to grow their business through engagement with different industry sectors including government, research organisations and other businesses. This diverse background has led more recently to the role of Innovation Facilitator, where Scott helps support SMEs in collaborating with research organisations and bridging knowledge gaps. Scott has facilitated numerous projects between SMEs and the CSIRO that have led to the creation of long and productive relationships.
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Mario Martini, QLD Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Townsville, QLD Mobile: 0409 066 475 [email protected]
Background Mario has been successfully applying innovation in industry for over three decades in the R&D of food, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, mining and agricultural chemical products, and their processes — for both the domestic and overseas markets. As a senior manager, he has led a number of diverse manufacturing operations and commercial activities in Australia and has also been involved in technology transfer to and from the USA and China. Most recently, with the Queensland Manufacturing Institute, Mario facilitated the implementation of Lean principles, and new processes and technology in SMEs in northern Queensland including the development of a new food industry in Far North Queensland.
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David Martin, QLD Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Ai Group Brisbane, QLD Mobile: 0408 283 258 [email protected]
Background With over 15 years’ experience in executive roles in the private and public sector, David’s career has been diverse. He has worked in resource exploration as a geologist; mergers and acquisitions in the oil and gas industry; the development of resources and energy policy at both the federal and state level; maximising opportunities for Australian industry in major projects; and delivering financial assistance to innovative SMEs. In his current role, David assists the business community to effectively engage and collaborate with research organisations across Australia. David finds the best-suited researchers to work with them, facilitates the development of project plans and commercial arrangements with the relevant research organisation. David works with nine Australian universities with over 30 campuses’ and this work has resulted in over 100 successful research and industry partnerships to date. Previous clients have included the 2014 Endeavour Awards winner for most Innovative Product, and the 2014 QLD Exporter of the Year. David also led Australia’s team in the 2015 Global Business Challenge, (a graduate business case/pitch competition to design sustainable solutions to global problems), and placed second in the world. In addition, David was selected by QUT’s MBA program to represent the University at the prestigious John Molson Business Case Competition in Montreal Canada.
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George Pofandt, QLD Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Brisbane and Gold Coast, QLD Mobile: 0411 098 685 [email protected]
Background George provides professional facilitation services under the Entrepreneurs’ Programme. He uses his background as a manufacturing engineer to develop solutions to challenges preventing a business from growing, including assisting clients to overcome their technical barriers. This includes making connections to capability; business intelligence; sustainability; energy efficiency; manufacturing technology; IT systems; testing; and certification. George's key capabilities for this role include being able to interpret complex challenges and define the core problems; thinking outside the square; and developing or researching unique solutions, and drawing on experience from a broad range of industry sectors. George has engineering qualifications and a background in the aerospace, medical, mining and exploration fields, as well as trade qualifications in toolmaking.
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Greg Ward, VIC Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Deloitte Private Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0419 002 410 [email protected]
Background Greg brings an extensive commercial background, having worked in various investment banking and corporate advisory roles in the United Kingdom and Australia for over 16 years, where he worked with major chemical and pharmaceutical companies in a range of capital market advisory transactions, including take-overs, asset acquisitions and disposals and corporate restructures. He moved to commercialisation of university generated IP at the University of Sydney in 2008, where he was responsible for a wide range of science and medical technology related technologies. Greg has extensive hands on experience negotiating large industry and university contracts, including licensing, research and commercialisation of early stage IP. Greg established the RMIT University New Enterprise Investment Fund which is a $7 million fund set up to kick-start student enterprises. This fund saw the establishment of 15 businesses in the first year of its operations. Greg was awarded a Cambridge Commonwealth Trust Scholarship and has a Doctorate in Chemistry (Crystallography of Osmium Clusters). Greg is currently completing a Graduate Diploma in Law.
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Paul Mason, VIC Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Deloitte Private Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0412 952 502 [email protected]
Background Paul has worked within start-ups, SMEs and multinational businesses in senior R&D and leadership roles, and has extensive product development skills in systems design, hardware and software engineering, mechanical design, prototyping and validation. Paul has led the development of market-leading products from wireless communication technologies to advanced driver assistance systems. Paul’s strengths lie in finding the right partners, tools and solutions, and leveraging new technologies to develop efficient products, processes and services. Paul has strong professional networks across Asia, and experience working on business development projects, strategic partnerships, and joint venture activities while living in China. Paul’s formal qualifications include a Master of Engineering, a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics, and Bachelor of Science in Software Development. As an Innovation Facilitator, Paul provides technical assessment and recommendations to assist businesses to improve their products, processes and services. This can include identifying technology solutions, locating information, providing connections to development partners, or removing other barriers to growth.
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Kevin Thomson, VIC Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
CSIRO Clayton, VIC Mobile: 0438 155 815 [email protected]
Background Kevin commenced a research career in materials engineering and then moved into the plastics industry. His experience ranges from materials development through to the design and manufacture of finished products across industries including automotive, medical devices, plastics and packaging. He worked as a consultant for 10 years, including three contracts with start-up companies, and carried out many projects in recycling, sustainability, energy efficiency, market research and new product development. He has extensive experience managing collaborative projects with CRCs, Universities and CSIRO. He has been a Facilitator for Innovation Connections and the former Researchers in Business scheme, since 2011. Based in Victoria, he connects companies with any eligible research organisation including Universities and CSIRO.
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Joseph Dodd, VIC Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme CSIRO Clayton, VIC Mobile: 0435 134 935 [email protected]
Background Joe has almost 20 years’ experience working in the pharma, biotech and medical technology industries in Australia and the UK. Joe started his career in the microbiology laboratories of a pharmaceutical manufacturer before moving into business development for a drug and patent information company and then becoming Asia Area Manager for a UK-based pharmaceutical business. Joe moved to Australia in 2006 where he worked for UK Trade & Investment providing market development strategies and advice for biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device companies and facilitating collaborations between Australian and UK organisations. Joe is a Research Facilitator for Victoria. He works across the five industry growth sectors but with a focus on the Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals sector, along with the Food and Agribusiness sector and ICT, Digital and Professional Services. Joe’s role is to help connect Australian companies with the technical expertise they need across the research sector to help them resolve technical issues and develop commercial ideas.
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Jim Grigoriou, VIC Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business Foundations Melbourne, VIC Mobile: 0429 122 523 [email protected]
Background Jim’s first foray in business creation was bagging chicken manure, carting it to the nearest road and waiting for buyers. He realised that colourful signage with a difference was needed to arouse curiosity. Working with SMEs to generate IP for the creation of profits and jobs feeds his need to contribute to our first world society. Since 2008, he has also supported a Papua New Guinea NGO, the Foundation for People and Community Development that is working with seven communities resisting the entrance of commercial logging operations. Overseas experience includes time in the United States of America teaching at Chicago’s DePaul University, part of a team driving an instrument start up enterprise in North Carolina, and living in Ghana and travelling parts of West Africa. Jim’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Economics (Hons) and a Master of Enterprise Innovation.
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Neil Clarke, SA Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0408 280 601 [email protected]
Background Neil entered the IT industry in 1987 after 10 years in the civil aviation sector. Neil has held IT technical and managerial positions in SMEs in diverse areas such as warehousing, product costing, network design, implementation services, technical consulting and software development. Neil has held Director and Managing Director roles in two private companies developing the businesses from start-up to successful multi-million dollar businesses focused on software system development for shop floor and industrial data capture. With experience in small and large companies, Neil applies his diverse knowledge to help businesses overcome challenges in the selection and implementation of IT systems that will help automate and improve workflows and information flows within the business. Having worked in both vendor and customer roles, Neil has a good understanding of the challenges businesses face in the selection and implementation of complex systems. Neil enjoys using his hard won experience to assist businesses of all sizes to get IT projects off the ground.
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David Monck, SA Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
CSIRO Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0422 882 290 [email protected]
Background David has extensive management experience in the food industry with small and large, internationally focused manufacturing companies. This includes direct experience with related services (Packaging, Food Technology, Food Science, Processing Equipment, Freight, Logistics, Agriculture, Waste, Water, Energy, and Research & Development). He has mainly worked in the private sector for various manufacturing and retail companies domestically and internationally including George Western Foods, Qantas, International Tastes, Hilton Hotel Group (UK), De Vere Leisure Group (UK). David has owned his own small food service business and has been a Technical Food Advisor for the South Australia Centre for Manufacturing (SACFM).
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Andrew Richardson, SA Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Business Foundations Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0438 529 288
Background Andrew has participated in collaborations between SMEs and research organisations in many different roles: as a postdoctoral researcher on a linkage project, as a researcher in industry coordinating projects with academic partners, and as a Director in a start-up company that successfully licensed IP to a major whitegoods manufacturer. Originally studying optoelectronics and laser engineering, Andrew moved into fundamental research in biophysics before returning to applied research in the field of optical sensing. Here he gained experience in sensor development, early phase prototyping, and project management. Facilitating connections between SMEs and the research community is aided by the three years Andrew spent in technical sales of scientific equipment within Australia, where Andrew became familiar with the research capabilities of a broad section of the Australian research community. As an Innovation Facilitator in South Australia, Andrew is passionate about providing opportunities for SMEs and Publicly Funded Research Organisations to collaborate for impactful outcomes.
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Richard Penman, SA Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme AMTIL Adelaide, SA Mobile: 0409 169 978 [email protected]
Background Richard is an Innovation Facilitator with the Australian Government’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme and he specialises in translating technology for business. Husband, proud Dad, Airforce technician, Rigger, Network Engineer and Pacific Zone IT Manager, Richard now provides independent advice to Businesses on technology options and solutions. After working with over 250 Businesses, spanning 13 different industry sectors, Richard says his main role is to translate technology options into realistic solutions for Business. Richard holds a Master of Information Technology.
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Ken Green, WA Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme Business Foundations Perth, WA Mobile: 0467 769 267 [email protected]
Background Ken has over 15 years of senior management experience in high technology companies in Europe and the United States of America. He is currently an Innovation Facilitator, a role that involves translating business problems and opportunities and brokering relationships with expertise and resources in universities and other publically funded research organisations such as the CSIRO. Ken works at the ‘interface’ between business and research but also across business sectors and scientific disciplines; boundaries where some of the most interesting industrial applications of technology and knowledge occur. Ken was previously a Director with a UK photonics start-up which grew from eight to 80 staff over 10 years and ended up being sold to the world’s largest optics manufacturer. He has been involved in university spin-outs from Southampton University and technology acquisitions out of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in London. He has held technology transfer and industry engagement roles in the UK with the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, the Extremely Large Telescope at the European Southern Observatory and the Aurora mission to Mars for the European Space Agency. Prior to this role Ken was involved in establishing commercial IP diligence processes for a major UK clearing bank that enabled them to enter the venture capital market to finance growth companies rich in intangible assets but lacking traditional security provisions.
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Peter Mitchell, National Innovation Facilitator, Entrepreneurs’ Programme
Business Foundations
National Mobile: 0438 628 284 [email protected]
Background
Peter has over 30 years of experience in the IT industry, and is experienced in providing IT solutions to a diverse range of businesses.
Peter formed an IT company in 1987, specializing in providing IT capability for small to medium size businesses, many of whom have gone on to be National and in some cases Global organisation’s.
He then worked as Network Manager for a global electrical manufacturing company, managing their IT operation and integration requirements of the organisation’s 32 companies.
Peter was Head of IT for Australia’s peak wine organisation’s 10 global offices, responsible for digital automation of their manual export system. This was developed by liaising with some 1200 growers and exporters (of which 95% were SME’s), converting their business needs into IT solutions that met their export and business intelligence requirements.
In 2012 Peter established an IT consulting business which specialised in delivering IT business solutions for a diverse range of clients. Many of whom were SME’s looking to take advantage of new digital technologies to further enable their business capability.
Peter brings to the program a high level of the business acumen and technical expertise and is skilled in translating business requirements and objectives into scalable, highly resilient and successful ICT business solutions.
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Entrepreneurs’ Programme The Entrepreneurs’ Programme is an Australian Government initiative to improve business competitiveness and productivity. The Programme forms part of the Government’s National Innovation and Science Agenda. The Entrepreneurs’ Programme offers support to businesses through four elements: Accelerating Commercialisation, Business Management, Incubator Support and Innovation Connections. For more information or to determine if you are eligible for any of the services available under the Entrepreneurs’ Programme visit business.gov.au/ep or call 13 28 46.