High achieving alumni
UniSA defines a 'high achieving' alumnus as someone who has: graduated from UniSA over 10 years ago; has achieved distinction in their chosen business, profession or work life.
If you feel that you fit this category, and you would like to share your success with the UniSA Alumni Network, tell us your story.
- Dr Mark Ahn, Ph.D (Business Administration)
- Wendy Schaeffer OAM, Bachelor of Physiotherapy
- Dr James Cowley, Ph.D (UniSA) M.Ed; B.A; MMRSA; QPMR; FA I M; CPM PhD Business and Management
- Katrina Webb OAM, Bachelor of Physiotherapy
- Shivani Gupta, B Engineering (Electrical & Electronic Engineering), Master of Business Administration
- Rachael Sporn, BEd (Secondary Physical Education)
- Peter Savoff, Master of Business Administration
- Nicole Underwood, Bachelor of Management
- Diana Caroll, Master of Arts (Communication Management)
- Brian Thompson, Management Certificate
- Darren Chandler, Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise & Sports Science)
- Sue Crafter, Bachelor of Social Work
- Elizabeth Clare, Graduate Certificate in Management, Graduate Diploma in Communication (Public Relations)
- Leigh Garrett, Master of Business Administration
- Bill Spurr, Diploma of Teaching
- Anna Siros, Bachelor of Management (Marketing)
- Jehad Rasheed, Bachelor of Education
- Kathryn Harby-Williams, Bachelor of Management (Marketing)
- Malcolm Colegate, Master of Business Administration
- Philip Sims, Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
- Peter Adams, Graduate Diploma in Communications (Public Relations)
- Matt Schmidt, Bachelor of Applied Science, Recreation, Planning and Management
- Nyrell Pattel, Master of Social Sciences (Counselling)
- Monish Bhindi, Bachelor of Engineering (Minerals and Civil)
- Sam Tucker, Bachelor of Business (Tourism and Hospitality)
- John Hender, Marketing Studies Certificate
- Craig Hunter, Masters in IT Management
- Dr Travis Kemp, Grad Dip Social Science (Educational Counselling), Master of Social Science (Counselling) and Ph.D (Social Science)
- Tim Boylen, Bachelor of Arts (Journalism)
- John Chaplin, Bachelor of Design
- Damien Mair, Bachelor of Design
- Phil Morton, Graduate Diploma in Municipal Engineering
- Michael O'Connor, Bachelor of Applied Science (Building)
- Michael Owen, Master of Business Administration
- Gary Storkey, Master of Business Administration
- Phil Tregenza, Bachelor of Applied Science (Building)
- Kaija Balodis, Graduate Diploma in Communications (Public Relations)
- Kristen Martins, Bachelor of Arts (Communications)
- Rebecca Edgley, Masters in Organisational Psychology
- Barbara Harkness, Bachelor of Visual Communication
- Tracy Noon, Bachelor of Business
- Victoria White, Master of Business Administration
- Kea Dent, Master of Business Administration
- Rob McKay, B. Business (Marketing)
Dr Mark
Ahn
Mark J. Ahn, Ph.D. is President and Chief Executive Officer of Hana Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: HNAB), a South San Francisco, CA-based biopharmaceutical company which acquires, develops, and commercializes innovative products to advance cancer care.
Prior to Hana, Dr. Ahn served as Vice President, Hematology and corporate officer at Genentech, Inc. where he was responsible for commercial and clinical development of the Hematology franchise which surpassed $1 billion in revenues, achieved the #1 oncology therapeutic position in the US, and was recognized as the #1 sales and marketing team in the biopharmaceutical industry in by Product Management Today. Prior to Genentech, Dr. Ahn held a series of positions of increasing responsibility at Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Amgen, Inc and FMC Corporation in strategy, general management, sales & marketing, business development, and finance. He also served as an officer in the U.S. Army.
Dr. Ahn also serves on the Board of Directors of Transmolecular, Inc., RXi Pharmaceuticals, and Access Pharmaceuticals. He also serves on the Board of Governors for Chaminade University.
Dr. Ahn received a BA in History and MBA from Chaminade University. He was a graduate fellow in Economics at Essex University, and has a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of South Australia. Dr. Ahn is a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute.
Wendy Schaeffer OAM
Wendy has attained the highest level in her field, winning a gold medal in the Equestrian Three Day Event at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996. She continued her winning streak in 2002 by taking out the CCI**** class at the Mitsubishi Adelaide International Horse Trials. Being a high profile equestrian athlete has equipped Wendy to be adept at media presentations and consequently she is highly sought after for public speaking engagements.
Currently, Wendy is managing director of Sunburst Equestrian, which is offers a broad range of specialist equestrian services with a focus on training. Both horses and riders are trained for competition and amateur equestrian events. There is a particular focus on occupational training which is another facet of her work Wendy particularly enjoys, as she prepares people for future employment in equestrian competition.
Wendy still finds time to practice part-time as a physiotherapist with Hahndorf & Districts Physiotherapy, employing her skills attained in gaining her Bachelor of Physiotherapy Degree in 2000 at UniSA, and is an active and enthusiastic member of the SA Sports Physiotherapy Group Committee.
Dr James Cowley
Dr James Cowley Ph.D (Uni SA) M.Ed; B.A; MMRSA; QPMR; FA I M; CPM. PhD Business and Management
James Cowley has achieved a leadership role in three quite different fields of work. In the very competitive end of the business world; in government services and in education, and in different countries. In each field of work his innovations have been recognised.
He has created, managed, built, expanded and sold very profitable companies. These companies were in highly competitive markets and achieved substantially higher profit margins than their industry norms whilst creating quite a large number of jobs.
He has directed marketing campaigns that have received international acknowledgements. He has also consulted on marketing and consumer behaviour to Executive levels of many of the largest Australian and Global corporations and on strategy to the top levels of Government (up to Cabinet level) and Private sector (up to Board level).
For 12 years he was joint Managing Director of New Focus Research Pty Ltd (Australian owned Market research/strategy company operating locally and internationally), and throughout this time continued a hands on role in qualitative and quantitative research and consulting.
James has significant experience delivering keynote speeches and is known for being a challenging speaker. One of the trends he predicted four years ago is the issue of work life balance, its causes and its impacts. His latest book “I NEED BALANCE IN MY LIFE - Achieving the dream of the 21st Century” was published in late January in Australia by Richmond.James’ website is: www.balanceandconnect.com.au
Katrina Webb OAM
Katrina has the honour of being the first torchbearer to enter the Olympic Stadium for the Sydney Paralympic Games 2000 in recognition and acknowledgement of her unique athleticism and outstanding success as a Paralympic athlete. She went on to break world records and won Silver in the 100m and 400m sprint and a Bronze Medal in the women's 200m sprint events.
Katrina has won a plethora of well deserved high achiever's awards and the following list is only a snapshot of her achievements. In 1996 she was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for services to sport, in 1999 Katrina received the Queen's Trust Achiever Award and in the inaugural 2001 SA Youth Showcase Awards, Katrina received the 'Young Person of the Year Award'.
A graduate of UniSA in 2000 with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Katrina is now the CEO of her own business 'Kwik Kat Enterprises', which was established in May 2000 to inspire and motivate people to achieve their own goals and where Katrina's dynamic and inspirational speaking is in constant demand. The company focuses on keynote presentations, seminars, and team building events, where services are innovative and tailored to individual clients needs.
Despite her busy schedule, Katrina still finds time to relax and enjoys travelling, gardening and socialising with friends.
You can find out more information from Katrina's website on: http://www.katrinawebb.com.au
Shivani
Gupta
Shivani’s personal experience of moving from India to a remote area in South Australia at a young age was the first major change in her life. With a determination to overcome obstacles and the motivation to succeed, Shivani rose to each challenge: studying in a non-traditional area of engineering, moving into a career in a male-dominated sector and overcoming barriers faced by women in the workplace by moving into management positions at a young age while completing her MBA. At the age of 27, she became a senior manager with BHP Billiton, the largest resource company in the world.
After a life changing experience in Nepal five years ago, she decided to leave her secure position to create her dream and passion of “challenging people to grow” and established her own company.
She has worked with over 100 National companies in all states of Australia including 6 of the Top 10 (Forbes Nov 2006). She also speaks internationally.
Shivani has been the recipient of many awards including the Telstra Young Business Woman; Achiever of the Year for Enterprising Women Awards; Finalist in the Hunter Leadership Awards and in 2005, was named an honorary member of the Golden Key Society for her work with Universities that includes honorary members such like Bill Clinton and Ian Thorpe. Shivani has and continues to contribute to several boards. Shivani has also written articles for national publications, including the Law Review and The Australian. She is also a regular radio presenter and is currently writing two books.
You can find out more information from Shivani’s website on: www.rbc.net.au
Rachael Sporn
Rachael Sporn typifies the Australian Sporting hero. Like every hero the story must start somewhere; for Rachael her journey to become one of Australia’s most recognisable female basketball players began in the Victorian countryside as a junior at the age of nine.
Her swag of sporting achievements make impressive reading. Just a few include membership in the Australian National Team since 1989 where she played 304 games for her country. Her proudest achievements are reserved for her part in the Australian Olympic “Opals” basketball team’s Bronze Medal at the 1996 Atlanta Games, Silver Medal at the 2000 Sydney Games and Silver Medal at the 2004 Athens Games.
Success has not just followed Rachael internationally, but also locally where she has become the face of South Australian women’s basketball as captain of the Adelaide Quit Lightning Team. Praise too has echoed across the nation when she was named a dual winner of the WNBL’s Most Valuable Player and her induction into the Australian Sporting Hall of Fame in 1996.
The many years of hard effort and toil for Rachael has culminated in her recruitment to the Detroit Shock in the American WNBA for the 1998, 1999 and 2001 seasons. The level of competition in America is intense but Rachael has always risen to the challenge. Perhaps Rachael’s success is due to her passion for sport, not content just to play sport, taking on the rigours of university at the University of South Australia doing Secondary Physical Education and Mathematics.
A new chapter in Rachael’s life has begun with the arrival of daughter Teja in August 2002 and son Kade in July 2006. Retirement from basketball came after the Athens Olympics in 2004. Rachael loves motherhood and is enjoying the challenge of being a mum and still striving for her dreams in life.
Peter
Savoff
Peter Savoff is General Manager – Hotels, for the Anthony John Group, a highly successful and award winning Queensland based, property developer. The Group’s new Hotel Division will build and run a collection of high-end, boutique hotels, the first of which will be the Emporium Hotel in Brisbane, scheduled to open in June 2007.
Peter has over 20 years in the international hotel management industry, where he gained extensive Operations, Marketing and Business Development experience. His management experience includes working as the Area Director of Marketing for InterContinental Hotels Group (incorporating InterContinental, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn) across Queensland, the Northern Territory and Papua New Guinea.
Most recently, Peter spent the last three years as CEO of McInnes Wilson Lawyers, Queensland’s third largest law firm where he was responsible for growing both the business and its profitability. However, the lure to return to the hotel industry and start up a new hotel brand was an offer too good to refuse !
Peter graduated from a Master of Business Administration in 2001 where he received the Alex Ramsey Award as top of the IGSM MBA student and expects to complete his Master of Commercial Law (University of Melbourne) at the end of 2007.
The Emporium Hotel website is: www.emporiumhotel.com.au
Nicole
Underwood
A graduate of Uni SA and finalist in the Telstra Business Women Awards and Young Achiever Awards, Nicole Underwood is the General Manager of Entrée Recruitment which she established in 2001 and has subsequently built to be one of Adelaide’s most respected and successful recruitment companies. Under her leadership, Entrée Recruitment has grown to provide some of Adelaide’s top corporates with market leading recruitment services.
Nicole has overall responsibility for the profitability and strategic direction of Entrée Recruitment and the management and development of a team of twelve staff. Born in the Barossa Valley, Nicole completed her Bachelor of Management, with a major in Marketing and a minor in Human Resources, at the University of South Australia in 1998.
As an inspiring Young South Australian, with a career path not typical of a graduate, Nicole has created opportunities for herself through broadening her thinking, taking risks and having the confidence to create her future here in Adelaide.
Nicole’s strong belief in the state and the opportunities here for all young South Australians is evident through her business and the type of people she recruits. As a marketing graduate, she is keen to promote opportunities in the state other than traditional marketing roles such as careers in her industry recruitment and sales.
Nicole has been a keynote speaker at numerous events in Adelaide including Uni SA, YBF (Young Business Forum), EDS Careers Forum, The Securities Institute, Progressive Women Group and most recently at the CPA national congress on issues such as networking, promoting yourself, careers in SA, recruiting and retaining winning teams and creating individual success.
Entrée Recruitment website is http://www.entree.com.au
Diana
Carroll
Diana's company DIANA PR was launched in October 2001 and has already attracted a significant market share which she attributes to the Adelaide media industry's recognition of her reputation and skills developed over the last 20 years. Diana initially established her PR business in partnership in 1985 and took over as managing director in 1994. Subsequently, she negotiated the sale of the company to the market leader in 1999, but remained as state manager for two years where she continued her already successful career as speaker, trainer, lecturer and facilitator, in addition to continuing her practice as an accomplished writer and media commentator.
Diana is a well known speaker at conferences nationally and internationally on topics as diverse as: philanthropy, media, branding, global communication, and the future of marketing. She finds her executive workshops in networking, public speaking, personal branding, and media training are constantly in demand. In addition, Diana still finds time to lecture at UniSA in postgraduate and undergraduate programs, teaches marketing and organisational communication at TAFE, and has made positive contributions to numerous professional boards and committees as well as holding significant industry leadership positions.
Diana is passionate about the performing and visual arts, creative writing and travel. She shares her life with a 'soon to be famous' daughter, a dysfunctional cat and two terrified goldfish.
Brian Thompson
Brian believes his listening skills honed over 52 years of experience in sales, marketing and management have been a major contributing factor to his successful career. He prides himself on his people and management skills, and is also proud to be a foundation member of the UniSA Alumni Association in the Business and Management Chapter.
Currently, Brian is a Director of Marshall Thompson Homes SA Pty Ltd where he is responsible for the Group Dwellings Division. This is a highly specialised sector, where a high level of expertise and negotiation skills are required in the building and design of aged care complexes, as well as highly specialised precincts for disabled people. This division has several large projects involving over 20 complexes in Queensland and South Australia, in progress at present. Brian's previous positions include: Marketing Director for Sunfrost Foods and National Product Manager for Hills Industries Pty Ltd. These senior management positions combined with his broad experience in the food, clothing, hardware, building and importing and exporting industries have created the adaptability and lateral thinking abilities which are crucial in his current role.
However, Brian still finds time to relax. He reads avidly, especially medical literature, and has an interest in statistics and plays lawn bowls. He owns two race horses and enjoys the camaraderie at the race track as he is a well known figure in racing circles.
Darren Chandler
Sport has been the main focus of Darren's life and has not only given him success as a sports man; he believes it has given him life skills that have made him successful in his professional and personal life. As a league footballer for West Adelaide Football Club, Darren enjoyed being part of a team and has learned how success comes from hard work, dedication and commitment. This strong belief has led him to study for a Master of Business Administration at UniSA which he has almost completed.
He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Glenelg Football Club. He came on board in June 2002 and since then has been instrumental in injecting new ideas, changing the culture positively and elevating the club to a new level of professionalism. He is responsible for management of the Glenelg Function Centre, the appointment of coaches and players, as well as the development of Australian Rules football in the Club's zone.
In addition, Darren has participated widely in the Australian Rules Football World as Affiliated Leagues Manager and Football Services Manager for the South Australian National Football League.
Despite having retired as a professional football player, fitness is still a priority in Darren's life and he believes strongly in reserving time for activities and relaxation with his family and friends.
Sue
Crafter
Sue is Regional Director SA and WA with Urban Pacific Limited and currently is responsible for two major joint ventures with governments in both states. Westwood, in the Port Adelaide - Enfield Council precinct is a transformation of public housing dominated suburbs into a new and vibrant community of more than 2800 homes. Somerly, 30kms north of Perth is a joint venture with Landstart, the WA Government's land and property development arm will include more than 1800 homes centred around a 'Main Street' retail precinct.
Formerly, Sue was Director of Strategy and Policy in the Department of Housing and Urban Development and managed community and urban planning for the SA Land Trust (now the Land Management Corporation).
Sue's primary interest in the various positions she has held over the past twenty years including community and social work, planning, development, housing and urban policy has focused on creating self-sustaining, positive communities for individuals. She strongly believes that people's homes and living environment impact on well being and life opportunities.
Sue is the chair of the ACH Group and is a Board Member of the Social Inclusion Board.
Elizabeth Clare
Elizabeth Clare’s career burgeoned after taking an extended break to raise her family. She joined the Masonic Homes in 1993 where she soon demonstrated a flair for marketing when she undertook the vital role of promoting Darwin’s first retirement village. Her outstanding success ensured her rapid promotion to the position of General Manager – Property, where she was responsible for the management of a $70m property portfolio and the construction of retirement housing, serviced apartments and aged care facilities for the Masonic Homes.
In 2005 Elizabeth accepted the role of Executive Director of the Mary Potter Foundation where she is responsible for raising over $1m annually to support the Mary Potter Hospice at Calvary Hospital North Adelaide.
Elizabeth holds postgraduate qualifications in communications, public relations and management from UniSA.
She has been actively involved in the disability sector, having chaired the Independent Living Centre and was a member of the Transitional Advisory Group advising the Minister for Disability. She is currently an active board member of the Bedford Group where she chairs the Property Committee.
In 2003 Elizabeth was proud to be South Australian winner of the Community and Government Award for the Telstra business Women of the Year Awards which recognized her achievements and success as a business woman.
Leigh Garrett
As CEO of Offenders Aid and Rehabilitation Services or OARS, Leigh Garrett is one executive with his feet firmly planted on the ground. This is an indispensable trait when you consider that his job involves managing an organisation committed to the support and rehabilitation of one of society's most marginalised groups, people convicted of criminal offences and their families.
Leigh is an energetic and creative leader who is passionate about social and criminal justice reform and he believes that good leadership is the crucial component for organisational success. Consequently, he was named CEO of the Year for 2002 in the EQT CEO Awards after being nominated by his staff. Leigh considers that the growth and development of his own staff and volunteers not only give him great joy, but it is a tangible measure of his own sense of achievement.
Leigh has a Bachelor of Education with a major in Physical Education from UniSA, a Graduate Diploma of Occupational Safety and Management, and completed an MBA in 1998. He recognises the need for ongoing training and personal development and wishes to continue to develop his leadership skills and boost his business acumen for the benefit of the organisation.
He is passionate about AFL football and is also a keen gardener.
Bill
Spurr
Bill has had an eclectic career, which began in education after qualifying with a Diploma of Teaching from UniSA. He had a stint in production management before switching to a successful career in hospitality and tourism which now spans some 20 years.
Today, Bill is Chair of the Education Adelaide Board and on a number of other Boards including the Adelaide Festival Trust, The Adelaide Entertainment Centre, and the Sealink Travel Group of Companies. In June 2007 Bill retired as Chief Executive of the South Australian Tourism Commission and over the past five years his dedication and passion have been instrumental in achieving both growth and potential for South Australia nationally and internationally. Previously, as Chief Executive Australian Major Events AME, he overturned the seemingly adverse position of losing the Grand Prix to Victoria to a positive one. As a result, we now proudly host: the Tour Down Under, Tasting Australia and the World Solar Challenge.
In addition, Bill's expertise was employed to successfully promote Adelaide and SA as a convention and meetings destination while he was Executive Director of The Adelaide Convention and Tourism Authority. As Chair of the World Police and Fire Games 2007 Corporation Bill lead a very talented team that staged what to date is the largest event ever held in South Australia.
Bill is enthused about the tremendous opportunities that tourism offers graduates both locally and internationally. He is a strong advocate for young people to maximise their opportunities in this field, as he holds the very positive belief in the future directions and possibilities of tourism in South Australia.
Anna
Siros
Since 2001 when Anna graduated with a Bachelor of Management with a major in marketing at UniSA she has made the most of her initial training and background by continually stepping forward. Initially employed as a marketing assistant in the baby products industry, Anna's belief in looking for a challenge, continuous improvement and striving for her goals led her to join Simes Australia Pty Ltd, as Brand Manager, Skin Care. It was here that she honed her sales and marketing skills and broadened her knowledge base by developing and administering sales accounts and involved herself in training others. Her extensive knowledge and commitment to the beauty/fragrance industry ensured her promotion to her current role which is specialising in the field of international marketing and product development to Asian regions.
Anna has been successful in mixing her interpersonal skills, product knowledge and appreciation of individual Asian customs and cultures to build trust and acceptance and therefore ensuring her success in her current role of Export Manager.
Studying Chinese (Mandarin) has only been part of this commitment as she has constantly updated and enhanced her qualifications: Associate Diplomas in Liberal Studies, and Marketing, a Certificate in Handling Dangerous Goods and is currently completing a Certificate of International Business.
Not surprisingly, she was a finalist in the Telstra Businesswoman of the year in 2003; she is Vice president of the Asia Pacific Business Council for Women and is an experienced media presenter and guest lecturer.
Jehad
Rasheed
Jehad is a passionate and hardworking manager, who continually strives for perfection for both his clients and his team of nine staff. His competitiveness and strong desire to succeed is demonstrated as State Manager Corporate Express, which handles the promotions and marketing for many large corporations throughout Australia. The growth of the company is attributed to the professionalism and dedication of its team. Previously, Jehad was sales manager for Sara Lee Household and Body Care, where he was responsible for multi-million dollar accounts and brand management of the following: White King, Radox, Ambi-Pur, Kitten and Woolmix.
After graduating from the University of South Australia with a Bachelor of Education in 1993, he taught physical education and history at Balaklava and Clare High Schools where he indulged both his zeal for sport and developing the sporting and academic skills of young people. Currently, he is enjoying his role of assistant coach with the Norwood Football Club under seventeens, but he has always had strong sporting connections with Port Adelaide Football Club and with tennis coach Roger Rasheed.
As a self-confessed sports aficionado, Jehad is both a keen player and spectator of football, tennis and golf.
Kathryn
Harby-Williams
Kathryn has always set high goals for herself and showed absolute dedication in achieving those goals. This determination has been demonstrated by her outstanding success in her netball career. She was a member of the Australian Netball Team from 1992-2003 and Captained the team between 2000-2003. In addition, she was a World Champion 1995-1999, a Commonwealth Gold Medallist 1998, 2002, Captain of the Adelaide Thunderbirds 1997-2003, and just to cap off 2003, Centenary of Federation Medallist.
Graduating from the University of South Australia with a Bachelor of Management and a major in marketing has equipped Kathryn for her joint roles in the corporate and sporting worlds. First, as Business Development Manager with HomeStart Finance where she developed links with corporate partners. Next, as Sponsorship Manager with Adelaide Football Club (The Adelaide Crows), Kathryn met the challenge of generating income for the club through sponsorship. Currently, Kathryn is employing her knowledge and interest in sport by writing reports for Channel 7 News.
Despite her busy schedule, Kathryn, in conjunction with other high profile sports people, makes time to aid those less fortunate than herself with organisations such as MC² or the Mutual Community - Community Relations Team. She also advocates strongly the need to achieve a balance between career and family life.
Malcolm
Colegate
Malcolm 'retired' at the end of 2005 from his position as Executive Director of Water Industry Alliance Inc, which is a network of water technology companies in South Australia employing his consultancy skills and working collaboratively to develop an export sector. However it wasn't long before he was 'coaxed' back into the workforce and he is currently CEO and Grand Secretary of the Freemason's SA & NT.
Malcolm has lived and worked in South Australia all his life. He commenced his diverse career as an industrial chemist with F H Faulding and Co Ltd, where he developed expertise in the pharmaceutical field for 13 years, before changing direction when working for BHP Whyalla.
In 1987 he completed his Master of Business Administration MBA with the South Australian Institute of Technology SAIT. Since then he has held a number of consultancies with the government and private sector, as managing director of Colegate Management services which provided business strategy and development services and Industry Advisor to the food sector, with the South Australian Centre for Manufacturing.
Malcolm is a Fellow of the University of South Australia, a past-president of the Alumni Association and has participated in a number of sub-committees of the University's Development Board. He is also a longstanding member of the Grand Lodge of Freemasons SA and NT.
At present, he is enjoying his new role as a grandparent, ballroom dancing and playing tennis.
Philip
Sims
Philip is currently Chief Executive Officer of South Australian based Robert Menz Manufacturing Pty Ltd. The fourth generation family company is well known for its specialty brands including Menz Confectionary (Fruchocs, Crown Mints), Robern Fruit Products and Medlow Confectionary. Philip has transformed the business from a predominantly bulk/contract manufacturer and supplier to a brand marketer. Since his involvement in the business from the early 1990s the company's turnover has grown four fold, due to the exceptional quality and purity of the natural citrus, berry and tropical gel products.
After graduating with a Bachelor of Business with a major in marketing from the University of South Australia in 1988, Philip joined the family company for some time, but eventually decided to diversify and broaden his experience externally by joining the Schwarzkopf organisation. Over a period of four years he managed the sales force and key accounts in New South Wales in his role as Sales Manager. Since graduating, he has continually updated his qualifications, by completing an Export/Import Certificate from the Australian Export Institute in 1994 and obtaining a Graduate Certificate in Management in 2001.
Philip has a keen interest in league football and Sturt football Club.
Peter Adams
Brisbane-born but long settled in Adelaide, Peter Adams is the Media Officer for SafeWork SA, the state government agency which administers occupational health, safety and welfare as well as state-based industrial relations.
In his first year, Peter handled the fledgling agency’s media work through such high-profile incidents as the Gladstone factory blast in the state’s mid-north, and the Twin Flip malfunction at the 2006 Royal Adelaide Show. His work over that hectic 6-month period earned the SA Media Award for Best Public Relations Campaign.
He is currently completing a Masters in Communication Management at UniSA, on the back of a Graduate Diploma in Communications (Public Relations) achieved in 2000. He credits these for his successful career transition after 25 years in media.
Previously, Peter worked for eight years with the ABC in Adelaide in a number of roles including newsreader. Prior to that were stints in commercial radio, while his early career saw 10 years in television with the ABC and SAS Channel 10/7in Adelaide, TCN 9 Sydney and TVQ 0 Brisbane.
Peter is married with two young sons.
Matt
Schmidt
In 1996 Matt graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science, Recreation, Planning and Management from UniSA, which has equipped him for his current role of Executive Director of The Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation SA Branch (ACHPER SA).
He is active in promoting the need for active and healthy living to the South Australian community. His major roles are diverse and include: event management, marketing and advocacy in relation to working in partnership with key stakeholders such as, Government (Office for Recreation and Sport, Education and Health), Life Be in It (Corporate Cup) and National Heart Foundation (Jump Rope for Heart).
His previous positions include Fundraising and Marketing Coordinator at SIDS and South Australia and Event Manager at Ability Network. All of these previous roles have included the planning, coordination, budgeting, promotion/marketing and evaluation of statewide and national events including: exhibitions, conferences and fundraising initiatives.
Matt is the President of the Concordia Old Collegians Cricket Club, and is currently an Executive Member of The Council of Education Associations of SA (CEASA).
Matt has a vital interest in sport and was a member of the Port Adelaide Football Club Marketing Board in 2000-2002. In addition he is an active sports person and participant himself playing cricket, jogging and cycling. Matt is an enthusiastic and patriotic South Australian who enjoys South Australian wine.
Nyrell
Pattel
Nyrell Pattel GDMHScTCMH, GDICFT, MSScC, PhD candidate is the Executive Program Director/Therapist at the Australian First Nations Academy for Cultural Family Therapy and Counselling. As Bidjarra/Kari woman, Nyrell is the Founder and President of the Australian First Nations Cultural Family Therapist and Counsellors Association. She is a member of the International Counselling Association, Australian Counselling Association and the Federation of Psychotherapists and Counsellors of Queensland to which she is the Indigenous representative on the Board of Directors.
Nyrell Pattel is an Aboriginal therapist, curriculum writer, trainer and workplace assessor who has over twenty-seven years of working experience within the health and community service field. Nyrell was the first Aboriginal to graduate with Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Sciences (Transcultural Mental Health) from the Victorian Transcultural Psychiatry Unit, University of Melbourne. She was also the first Aboriginal to graduate from the School of Psychology, University of South Australia with a Masters in Social Science (Counselling). Nyrell is currently a PhD candidate with the University of Tasmania.
In 1995, Nyrell developed the Bachelor in Indigenous Psychology and an Advanced Diploma in Aboriginal Community Healing Practices. She has also co-authored post graduated Diploma in Aboriginal Counselling for La Trobe University and participated in the development of a CD Rom teaching tool for external students under taking studies in the Graduate Diploma in Mental health Sciences (Transcultural Mental Health) with the Victorian Transcultural Psychiatry Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Melbourne University.
Monish
Bhindi
Monish arrived from Fiji in 1985 to finish his schooling and study for a Bachelor of Applied Science. He extended his studies and graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering, Civil and Water from UniSA in 1999.
Prior to this he worked as a design engineer with Adrail, followed by a position of design drafter and engineer with KBR where he was fortunate to have the opportunity to work on high profile projects, such as the Formula 1 racetrack and the Darwin-Alice Springs rail bid, where he was able to gain valuable experience. Urban design and mining projects were also a major part of his portfolio, and included projects such as the Mawson Lakes and Blackwood Park projects.
After joining Maunsell Australia Pty Ltd, Monish concentrated on marketing, where his multiple skills were soon recognised with a promotion to Principal Engineer, where he manages the Civil group of 19 staff and is responsible for Urban Development projects.
Monish believes the key to success within his industry is building relationships. The fact that he has worked productively on a wide range of tasks and in more than one capacity, contributes to his philosophy of networking and recognising other people's high level of skill in their field.
Sam
Tucker
Sam strongly believes South Australia is a State of opportunity that offers significant advantages for both business and lifestyle. He is well qualified to make this statement, as Sam is managing director of the highly successful and award winning companies, The Great Australian Gingerbread Co, Food Service Solutions and most recently Glowco. Together his group of businesses manufacture, distribute, import and export a variety of food and merchandise products in both Australia and around the world.
Sam's believes that it is a combination of his studies and industry experience that has equipped him for his current demanding role.
In addition to graduating with a Business Degree in Hospitality and Tourism, Sam has obtained a Cordon Bleu Chef's Diploma, a Graduate Diploma in Administrative Management, an International Hotel Diploma and a Master of Business Administration MBA in 2003.
Sam is proud to have been winner of the Best New Retail Product Award 2002, a finalist in the Premier's Food Awards-Young Business Leader in 2003, as well as regional finalist in the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and winner of the best new licensed product with the NRL in 2006.
He has been a volunteer member of exposesa, the advisory committee to SA Great, for the past 5 years and is committed to ensuring emerging achievers are aware of the opportunities and advantages that SA has to offer. He speaks French, is a lover of food, travel, wine and sport, making him an ideal person to inspire and motivate young people to achieve success in this State.
John
Hender
John has worked extensively in the financial services industry spanning a period of 22 years. During this time he was involved in sales and marketing, consulting and business development as well as management.
Currently, John is State Manager, AMP Financial Planning SA and NT. He enjoys the challenging role of managing 20 staff and 120 financial planners, is responsible for retention of existing and sourcing new business, compliance and professional standards, public relations and branding. Previously, John was State Manager for AMP Corporate Superannuation where he was responsible for the corporate superannuation client base and business development. Formerly, John had 10 years experience in the financial services business, as a Financial Planner and Practice Manager.
He has a Marketing Studies Certificate from UniSA, and a long history of involvement in community work. John has been a National Board Member of the Make a Wish Foundation for five years, a member of the Wheelchair Sports Advisory Board and is also on the Board of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Research Foundation.
Apart from his busy career and community work, John enjoys competing in motorcycle trials, going to the gym, hiking, fishing, target shooting and just spending time relaxing with his family.
Craig
Hunter
Craig is General Manager, Information Technology for Origin Energy, a leading Australian Energy Company supplying natural gas, electricity and LP gas to millions of customers across Australia and the pacific. Origin's business spans the energy supply chain and includes: oil and gas exploration and production, electricity generation and energy retailing. Craig has held this position for a number of years and in this role he is responsible for the management of IT operations and strategy nationally.
Craig has brought with him a wealth of experience in accounting, finance management, project management and information technology from a number of industry sectors including: oil and gas exploration, sales and distribution, manufacturing and utilities.
Previously, he was Project Manager with Boral Energy where he implemented Oracle financial applications across Australia and upgraded and replaced infrastructure to over 2000 users. Prior to this, Craig was Commercial Manager where his brief included the management of all financial operations.
Craig has continually updated his qualifications, the most recent being a Masters in IT Management from UniSA in 2002.
Craig's philosophy with regard to management style is simple. It is very much team based, consultative and outcomes focussed. He prides himself on being approachable and enjoys motivating his staff.
Dr
Travis Kemp
Travis is the Managing Director of Executive Coaching and Corporate Psychological Services firm, The Teleran Group. In the past three years under Travis’ leadership, The Teleran Group has grown to become a recognised thought and service leader in its field nationally, with extensive operations nationally and serving a broad range of public and private companies, not-for profit organisations and federal, state and local Government bodies.
In addition to completing his Undergraduate teaching degree with The South Australian College of Advanced Education, Travis also completed a Graduate Diploma and Masters degree in Social Science at UniSA and later became the first PhD degree graduate of UniSA’s School of Psychology in 2001. He holds academic appointments as Adjunct Research Fellow at UniSA’s Graduate School of Business and Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Sydney’s Coaching Psychology Unit.
Travis has successfully combined his academic achievements with strong commercial credentials having held a range of senior Human Resource leadership roles with Faulding Pharmaceuticals and Electronic Data Systems Corporation. He has also held the appointment of MBA Director and Senior Lecturer in Management with UniSA’s International Graduate School of Business.
Travis is a registered Psychologist and Secondary Teacher, Fellow of both the Australian Institute of Management and the Australian Human Resources Institute, Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Member of the Australian College of Educators.
He is also a board member of prominent Adelaide commercial construction company Built Environs.
Tim
Boylen
Tim Boylen is Managing Director of Boylen, an Adelaide web design consultancy and magazine publishing company. The company's point of difference is its unique staff mix: it is rare to find professional designers and writers and marketing/sales staff under the one roof in Adelaide. As a result, Boylen enjoys long-term client relationships that range from Top 100 companies, Government and exporters, to small local businesses, retail outlets, hotels, lawyers, tourism operators, schools etc. The company's product mix ranges from simple websites to complex online solutions, magazines to directories, annual reports to corporate logos and identity systems.
Tim says: "I owe an enormous debt of gratitude to UniSA. After completing a Bachelor of Arts (Journalism) in 1983 I found that I was actually employable! I worked in business and the media in Australia and then the UK, which gave me the skills and insight to start my own business 10 years later, in 1993".
Tim can be contacted on (08) 8233 9433 or www.boylen.com.au
John
Chaplin
John jointly founded Fusion Digital Pty Ltd where he is Technical Director. Here, he specialises in Internet business strategies, and provides a consulting service on the strategic and functional architecture of projects and client business solutions. John advises Fusion and their clients on new opportunities and technologies available in the internet space and how they can help achieve business objectives. In addition, he provides valuable programming and technical support for team members. John has had extensive experience in project and account management and his clients include Konica Japan and NRMA. He set up and maintains the network and system administration of Fusion and its clients.
He received his Bachelor of Design from UniSA in 1994 and is proud to have won the best new talent award for the Asia-Pacific region for the prestigious MILIA Conference held in Cannes, France. John is a Member of the Small Business Development Council and was on the judging panel of the Telstra Small Business Awards in 2003.
He has found himself to be in high demand as a speaker at universities and TAFE Institutions and has written and delivered courses to the University of South Australia on multimedia programming techniques. He has appeared on numerous radio and television programs discussing internet, interactive media and design, including an ABC documentary on e-business in late 1999. In his spare time he enjoys being a musician.
Damien
Mair
Damien Mair jointly established Fusion Digital Pty Ltd and as Creative Director has shaped the company's award winning portfolio. His strength in balancing the importance of good design with an intuitive functional product has cemented his role in formulating internet business strategies for Fusion. His primary role is to consult on projects and to provide clients with a blueprint of their business requirements within the digital medium.
He oversees all creative and graphical design, providing valuable input to design staff and maintaining Fusion's high quality standards. He has extensive experience in project and account management with clients such as Konica and Delfin. Damien also manages the marketing aspects of Fusion.
He graduated from the University of South Australia with a Bachelor of Design in 1994. He won the inaugural Australian Graphic Design Association's (AGDA/Adobe) Scholarship award providing him with an internship at Adobe Systems in Seattle in 1995.
Since then, Damien's industry involvement has been extensive. He has judged numerous design awards and was a finalist in the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur Awards in 2003.
Damien was Guest Speaker at the 1998 Graduate Exhibition for the University of South Australia Graphic Design Course and he has appeared on radio and television including an in-depth look at his career in an ABC documentary called 'On the Job'.
Phil
Morton
Phil Morton is the Managing Partner for Morton Philips and brings a decade of Executive Search and Recruitment experience to the business. His commercial business background as General Manager of several significant operations means he understands the language of doing business.
Phil has had 3 different careers to date. He moved from local government to construction and then into the HR professional services industry. In each career phase, Phil has made a significant contribution and particularly during his time in the construction industry, he received an Engineering Excellence Award, he was General Manager of the leading road surfacing business in the State and was Chairman of the Australian Road Federation.
He joined Morgan & Banks to pursue his interest in assisting and following people’s careers. Morgan & Banks evolved into Hudson and under Phil’s guidance, it became the leading recruitment & HR firm in SA. Phil has been involved in the appointment of numerous state government Chief Executives as well as CEO and General Manager appointments in the private sector.
Phil has a sense of humour and appreciates South Australian red wine. He enjoys spending time with his wife, four kids and his garden.
Michael
O'Connor
Michael graduated from the South Australian Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Building) in 1984. Since then, he has carved a significant career and business in the building industry in South Australia. He was one of four directors who established Built Environs Pty Ltd in 1987 which is proudly South Australian and now employs 200 people and has an annual turnover of $140 million. Built Environs has been involved in many key landmark projects in the State, a few of which include: the State Library and Adelaide Oval Redevelopments, New Generation Leisure Centre, and the Burnside Village upgrade.
Michael is responsible for the strategic direction of Built Environs, is in charge of building, building works and interiors and special projects. He prides himself on his complete understanding of the construction industry: building, civil and industrial engineering contracts. He is active in the procurement of projects, monitoring risks and strengthening relationships with key clients. Built Environs was awarded MBA Commercial Builder of the Year for 2000, 2002, 2004, 2005 & 2006.
He is a member of various boards and committees some of which are: Master Builder's Association Council, Port Adelaide Football Club Board, Women's and Children's Trustee Committee, SA Chapter Chair, 2003/2004 Young Presidents Association and a Fellow, Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Michael aims for a healthy and balanced lifestyle between business, family and his leisure activities. He enjoys cycling, tennis and fishing.
Michael
Owen
Michael has an extensive and impressive background in banking and finance, particularly, in the retail banking and home lending sectors. He is currently Director, Information Technology at HomeStart Finance, which was established in 1989 by the SA Government to provide home ownership opportunities to moderate income households. It has assisted more than 44,999 households into home ownership and achieved market leadership in the design, delivery and management of mortgage products for its target market.
His role is challenging as it involves strategic planning and implementing technology to meet the demands of this dynamic and now billion dollar business that it is today. Formerly, he was Director of Retail Operations where he was involved in strategic planning, and implementation of organisations in the Retail Division.
Previously, he was Manager, Retail Banking Administration at Bank of Melbourne, where he was responsible for the administration and management of the Victorian regional bank and reported to the General Manager.
Michael has recently updated his qualifications with a Master of Business Administration (MBA), graduating from UniSA in 2003. He keeps in touch with his industry on a regular basis, as he is in demand for numerous public speaking engagements on business process engineering and systems development and is a member of the Australian Human Resource Institute.
Gary
Storkey
Gary is CEO of HomeStart Finance. Fourteen years ago Gary created this organisation and was responsible for building it into the billion dollar business that it is today. HomeStart Finance was established in 1989 by the SA Government to provide home ownership opportunities to moderate income households. It has assisted more than 44,000 households into home ownership and achieved market leadership in the design, delivery and management of mortgage products for its target market.
Gary has brought his expertise from the public housing and property field, where he was Principal Advisor to the Minister of Housing, involved in developing key policies in this area. Previously he was Accountant/Financial Analyst, with the SA Housing Trust for ten years where his role encompassed financial forecasting, budgeting and planning.
He graduated with a Master of Business Administration in 2002. Currently, he is actively involved in several organisations affiliated with the housing and finance industries.
Gary is SA President of the Institute of Public Administration IPAA, a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Marketing AIM, serves on the National Board of the Credit Ombudsman and is a member of the of the State Housing Executive Committee.
Phil
Tregenza
Phil graduated from the South Australian Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Building) in 1985. He was one of four directors who established Built Environs Pty Ltd in 1987 which is proudly South Australian and now employs 200 people and has an annual turnover of $140 million. Built Environs has been involved in many key landmark projects in the State, a few of which include: The Hindmarsh Island Bridge, Southern Expressway, Adelaide Ritz Apartments and the Adelaide Oval redevelopment.
Phil's major focus is on overseeing strategic marketing strategies, although he is completely competent in all aspects of the construction industry: building, civil and industrial engineering contracts. He is particularly active in the procurement of projects, monitoring risks and strengthening relationships with key clients. Built Environs was awarded MBA Commercial Builder of the Year for 2000 and again in 2002.
He is a member of various boards and committees some of which are: Australian Institute of Building, Australian Institute of Company Directors, Morialta Children's Trust, Vergola, Epworth Building Inc. and was a Past President of the Master Builders Association of South Australia.
On a personal note, Phil is passionate about sailing on his yacht 'Seasprint', plays tennis and enjoys time with his family and other interests.
Kaija
Balodis
Kaija is part of the EDS senior management team as Manager of EDS Marketspace. This is a state of the art functions facility, where her role as event manager also encompasses marketing, communications, sponsorship and strategic planning.
Prior to joining EDS Kaija was the Senior Consultant at Diana PR. She holds a postgraduate Diploma in Communications from UniSA and has a strong professional background in media, finance and government. She was formerly the SA Account Manager for Media Monitors, Australia's leading media research company and has also worked in the Office of Federal Cabinet Minister Amanda Vanstone.
Kaija actively supports the public relations industry in Adelaide. She has lectured at UniSA to undergraduates in event management, served as a State Councillor for the Public Relations Institute of Australia, PRIA for three years and organised numerous industry events.
In 2003 she was a Friend of the Helpmann Academy, in 2001-2002 a member of the Waterhouse Club for young professionals and in 1999 a Judge for Young Australian of the Year Awards.
Kaiji still finds time to escape on 'SA Secret' weekends and walk on the beach. She enjoys shopping and running her wine club, In Vino Veritos.
Kristen Martins
Kristen graduated with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Communications in 1998 which gave her a solid base on which to build her diverse career.
Kristen is currently National Practice Leader at Hudson Global Resources which involves both the management of a large team plus driving new business on a national basis. Hudson is a worldwide leader in the provision of recruitment and human resource consulting services, focussing on the discovery and development of talented people to meet employer's needs across a wide range of industries and job categories. She is also the key account manager for a number of major clients both state based and Australia wide.
Prior to her time at Hudson, she was Account Manager at CHEP Australia where she was responsible for the sale and implementation of a computerised tracking system within the automotive sector. Prior to this, Kristen worked as a software developer with Opal Information Systems. Here, she worked with a range of clients, but worked predominantly with South Australian Government departments.
Kristen has built her skills and knowledge on the premise of people development, thus leading to her success as a key recruitment specialist and manager within the Financial and Professional Services Sectors.
Rebecca
Edgley
Rebecca is an excellent communicator and believes in providing realistic solutions to human resource needs. Since joining TMP Hudson in April 2003, Rebecca's focus has been on the design, delivery, and management of a broad range of HR projects. Working within a team structure at TMP Hudson, she specialises in organisational development, performance management, career transition management, learning solutions and assessment and development services.
Prior to her current role, Rebecca was a Performance Analyst at Westpac Banking Corporation within Direct Sales. In this role she was responsible for developing ideas and initiatives to influence and drive key behaviours. Previously, she was Business Training Facilitator at the Mortgage Company where she developed team members' skills and abilities through training programs. She also project managed and developed induction programs, training program evaluation tools and provided technical and procedural assistance to Project Managers. This wide experience provided Rebecca with the broad base which qualified her to operate as a specialist in human resource consulting, in the financial, information technology and professional service sectors.
In 2002 she graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) from UniSA and in 2004 she gained a Masters in Organisational Psychology.
Despite her busy schedule, Rebecca allocates time to participate in and enjoy water and snow skiing.
Barbara
Harkness
Harkness Design was founded in 1990 after Barbara had successfully completed a Bachelor of Visual Communication at UniSA. Originally, it was never her intention to specialise in wine label design, but she is now regarded as one of the top wine label designers in Australia. As a consultant for the first ten years, Barbara was instrumental in the creation of boutique brands and labels with innovative designs, such as: Majella, Cape Jaffa, Tatachilla, Tamar Ridge and Cockatoo Ridge, to name just a few.
After the first wine marketing conference held in Adelaide in 1999, Barbara initiated the idea of selling 'off the shelf designs' in an effort to help producers gain access to export markets. This became a separate company called 'Just Add Wine' with the first concept to sell being the now infamous 'Yellow Tail,' a brand which has made history in the industry as being the most successful ever launched.
Barbara's lateral thinking and being pro-active has turned round, the way the industry approached wine label design. After being a full-time mother for 12 years, Barbara has demonstrated how a determined individual can succeed in a very competitive market. In fact, not only succeed, but progress from a sole proprietor operating from home, to a studio with four designers. While Barbara still prides herself on her expertise in the wine industry she has now expanded into other areas of corporate design.
Tracy
Noon
Since graduating from UniSA with a Bachelor of Business in 1983, Tracy has worked for global businesses in Australia, the USA and the UK. Whilst studying, Tracy was an office holder for the International Business and Commerce Students Association, AIESEC. This global organisation develops youth leadership and from 1999-2000 Tracy held a position on the Regional Board.
After two years with Hudson in Adelaide as the National Practice Leader of Hudson's Human Resources recruitment practice, Tracy relocated to Sydney in December 2005 to take up the role of General Manager Human Resources for Hudson Australia/New Zealand. In this role Tracy is responsible for the strategic and operational management of the Human Resources function, leading and managing a team of HR specialists to develop and implement robust HR policies, procedures, systems and practices to meet both the short and long term direction of Hudson and the individual business units within it.
Prior to commencing with Hudson, Tracy worked in New York where she established her own successful executive search business, Noon Dixon LLC in a tough and competitive environment. Earlier in her career, she was at Codan Ltd, as Group Human Resources Manager. Formerly, Tracy was Executive HR Manager, Life Insurance Division with AXA Australia. Her national executive role focussed on centralisation of services and restructure of business to profitability during the pre-AXA acquisition of National Mutual.
Victoria
White
Victoria was a finalist in the Telstra Business Woman of the Year Awards in 2003 and as a leader in her field has been selected to join the Governor's Leadership Foundation whose aims are to broaden and accelerate potential leaders for the future of South Australia.
Currently, Victoria is a senior manager at the South Australian Water Corporation where she develops and implements quality management systems, strategic and operational business plans and does external performance reporting for the Water Services division which employs approximately 900 people. This division is responsible for managing and delivering water services to South Australia.
Graduating as a chemical engineer in 1996, Victoria initially worked as an environmental engineer at the EPA involved in air quality policy and compliance. The transition to water engineer at SA Water was a logical step in her career at this point, as Victoria soon progressed from project evaluation and approvals before managing their $600 Million Five year Capital Plan where she instigated significant change initiatives to improve return on investment.
Victoria has also been studying concurrently and completed her MBA at UniSA in 2003. Despite her busy and stimulating career, Victoria feels it's important to engage in a variety of personal interests to keep her physically and mentally fit and she is looking forward to participating in UniSA's Network Now program.
Rob McKay
Rob graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Business (Marketing). Rob works with Chevron Corporation based in San Francisco, California. His current role is Manager Back Office Systems, North America.
Rob has 14 years with Chevron. He moved to the US Global Headquarters in 2004. This followed 5 years in the Asia Pacific Regional Office where he was Merchandise Manager, Asia, Middle East and Africa. Prior to moving to Asia, Rob was instrumental in developing the Caltex Australia format which is successful in the Australian market today.
Prior to joining Chevron, he worked with The Coca-Cola Company for 4 years in various sales and marketing roles in both Adelaide and Sydney.
Rob commenced an MBA at the University of SA in 1994 which he transferred and completed at the University of Technology, Sydney in 1996.
Having worked extensively across all regions, Rob has a unique and educated global perspective.
Kea
Dent
Kea is currently Consultant/Proprietor of her new company, Kea Dent and Associates which provides regulatory consultancy services. Prior to this Kea was managing director of a company called Dentsleeve Pty Ltd which she developed and expanded while simultaneously building her own management skills. The company exported their specialised and unique clinical products: the sleeve sensor, catheters and perfusion pumps.
Kea enjoys the demands of the daily management of the company: personnel management, quality assurance, financial control, marketing, and developing and maintaining relationships with over 40 distributors internationally. However, Kea not only meets the day to day challenges, she has continually sought to improve and build on her qualifications and experience. She obtained a Graduate Diploma in Management in 2002 and completed her Master of Business Administration in 2003, at UniSA.
Winning a plethora of entrepreneurial and business awards in her relatively short but successful career has also been rewarding. She was especially proud to be State finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year category of Young Entrepreneur in 2003, and South Australian winner of the Telstra Business Women's Award in 2002.
Her expertise is sought as a board member of the Regulatory and Technical Affairs Council, and the Small Business Advisory Council. Despite her heavy business commitments, Kea still finds time to indulge in horse riding, competing in eventing, dressage and showjumping.