The Business Of

In the world of financial services, where every process must be airtight and every action traceable, documentation isn’t just admin—it’s risk management, compliance, and operational continuity. Yet teams still spend 4 to 6 hours manually writing SOPs and process guides—until now.Our guests today are Finn and Oliver, co-founders of Fluency, a company that’s reimagining how operations teams work. Best mates who learned to code while juggling university and part-time jobs, Fluency was born from Finn’s time in investment banking and an internship at HESTA, where he saw firsthand the inefficiencies of legacy documentation. What started as a side project quickly grew into a category-defining product.Fluency is 50x faster documentation. Their AI captures every step of a process with a simple 5-minute screen recording, transforming it into clear, compliant documentation in seconds. Already trusted by major players like AON, KordaMentha, and Bennelong Funds Management, Fluency is becoming critical infrastructure for financial services teams with high regulatory overhead and limited time.But they haven’t stopped there. After speaking to customers, they realised the deeper issue: operations teams were flying blind. So they built real-time process observation—a module that gives operations teams live visibility into workflows, bottlenecks, and compliance risks, similar to what sales and engineering teams get through CRMs.With $1.5 million in pre-seed backing and a bold mission to bring AI to enterprise operations, Finn and Oliver are just getting started.

It’s always fascinating to examine the economy from two different angles—especially when one is through the eyes of a wealth adviser and the other from the perspective of a business and restructuring specialist. While both are navigating the same macro environment, their day-to-day realities couldn’t be more different. In this episode, recorded just before the announcement of the latest Trump tariffs, we explore how both individuals and businesses are responding to what has become an increasingly complex and volatile economic climate.To help us do that, we’re joined by two senior professionals from Vincents—our podcast sponsor and one of Australia’s leading multidisciplinary advisory firms. Kenneth Beanland, from Vincents Private Wealth, and Steven Staatz, from the firm’s Restructuring & Insolvency division, bring years of experience in advising clients through both prosperous and uncertain times. From helping clients build resilient investment portfolios to working with struggling SMEs on turnarounds and restructuring, the breadth of their insight makes for a really unique and timely discussion.Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. In today’s episode, we unpack the current economic climate from both the boardroom and the balance sheet—how small-to-medium businesses are coping with sustained rate pressure, and how investors are adapting their portfolios to meet both near-term needs and long-term goals.We also explore the federal government's Small Business Restructuring initiative, the rise of private markets in investment strategies, and wrap up with a few lighter questions—including a stock pick for 2025. We hope you enjoy this special episode featuring Kenneth Beanland and Steven Staatz from Vincents.

In a country as vast and decentralised as Australia, the heavy vehicle industry is the lifeblood of our economy—connecting farms to ports, factories to distribution centres, and towns to cities. It’s easy to overlook just how critical the sector is, but without trucks, Australia stops. At the centre of this essential industry is our guest today, Todd Hacking, the CEO of the Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia.

Todd’s career is as interesting as it is relevant. From his early days in federal politics, working in government roles and regulatory affairs, to leading advocacy at Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia, he’s spent years building the policy and negotiation skills that now serve him so well at HVIA. It’s this blend of political instinct and industry insight that makes him uniquely suited to represent over 300 of Australia’s most important transport manufacturers and suppliers.

In today’s episode, we unpack Todd’s career journey, from Parliament House to the Brisbane Truck Show, and hear how he helped double HVIA’s membership during a pandemic while pushing for major policy reforms like the instant asset write-off.

We also dive into the future of heavy vehicles in Australia—from electrification and hydrogen innovation to safety, workforce development, and what’s being done to keep this vital industry moving. We hope you enjoy this conversation with Todd Hacking.

Brisbane has never been more front and centre. With the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, the eyes of the world are firmly fixed on the River City. But beyond the stadiums and sporting headlines, Brisbane is undergoing a broader transformation—economically, culturally, and globally—and few people are better placed to talk about that than today’s guest.

Anthony Ryan is the CEO of the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, or BEDA, the city’s lead organisation driving tourism, investment, major events, and economic growth. With a background in community leadership and social enterprise, Anthony brings a unique perspective to one of the most strategically important roles in Brisbane’s future. Under his leadership, BEDA has adopted a data-driven and impact-focused approach to preparing Brisbane not just for the Olympics, but for long-term, sustainable success.

In today’s episode, we dive into the sectors that are energising Brisbane’s economy—from medtech and tourism to private capital and infrastructure—and what the path to 2032 and beyond could look like.

We’ll also unpack insights from BEDA’s State of the City Report, talk about the surge in international tourism, and hear Anthony’s vision for what a truly successful Olympic Games could mean for Brisbane.

Very few businesses in Australia can claim a history as rich and enduring as Washington H. Soul Pattinson. Founded in 1872 as a single pharmacy, it has since evolved into a diversified investment powerhouse, yet remarkably, it has remained a family-led enterprise for over 150 years. As the second-oldest ASX-listed company, Soul Patts has not only weathered world wars, economic depressions, financial crises, and evolving industry landscapes—it has thrived. It stands as a rare example of a business that has successfully balanced tradition with transformation, consistently delivering strong returns across multiple generations including this year earning the title 'Dividend Aristocrat' - a title afforded to a company that has grown its dividend every year for 25 years.

At the centre of this extraordinary journey is our guest today, Robert Millner. A direct descendant of the original founders, Rob has been on the board of WHSP since 1984 and Chairman since 1998, overseeing the company’s transition from its pharmaceutical roots to one of Australia’s most respected and diversified investment houses. Under his leadership, WHSP has expanded into telecommunications, energy, financial services, and beyond, all while maintaining its reputation for patience, discipline, and long-term value creation. Known for his pragmatic approach and contrarian investment philosophy, Robert has guided WHSP through multiple market cycles, making bold decisions that have positioned the company as a steady and strategic force in Australian business.

In today’s episode, we explore the remarkable history of Soul Patts, Rob's approach to leadership and investment, and how the company has built a reputation for resilience and strategic foresight.

We’ll also discuss WHSP’s bold investment moves, its role in shaping corporate Australia, and Robert’s insights on long-term investing and navigating economic uncertainty. We hope you enjoy 

If there is one thing that Australians have always loved, it is property. The Great Australian Dream is the desire for every Australian family to own their own home.

Owning your own home on your own block of land was a symbol of success. If you are lucky you may even manage to get yourself an investment property. However, the opportunities to invest in real estate are more expansive than they have ever been before.

In today’s podcast, we are joined by one of the best real estate minds in Australia, MA Financial Joint-CEO – Julian Biggins who oversees much of the MA Financial business but has built a particular name for himself in real estate.

On today’s podcast, we unpack with Julian:

- The rise of altnerative real estate investment opportunities and where MA Financial is seeing value for investors across various strategies such as pubs and marinas

- We discuss Australia’s current “housing crisis” and the variables that are contributing to the shortfall in supply & development activity

- We hear from Julian about the growth of MA Financial in his time since starting the firm alongside Chris Wyke

We hope you enjoy!

The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science are Australia’s most prestigious awards for achievements in scientific research and research-based innovation. The 2024 Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation was received by Professor Andrew F Wilks & Dr Chris Burns who are credited with the invention of momelotinib a drug to help treat myelofibrosis, a rare form of blood cancer that impacts one in 100,000.

The path to momelotinib achieving US FDA approval was a long one. Today’s journey follows the journey of Andrew Wilks, a young boy from Liverpool born to a working-class family who through his own innate curiosity and obsession with science has seen first-hand the good of what significant public and private investment into solving some of the world’s most challenging problems can provide to society.

On today’s podcast, we share an insight into the formative experiences of one of Australia’s great scientific minds.

We hear about his leap into entrepreneurship or what he calls “the dark side”.

Finally, we hear about the launch and early success of SYNthesis BioVentures, Andrew’s venture capital fund providing Ultra High Net Worth Individuals with access to a portfolio of exciting early-stage opportunities.

We hope you enjoy!

Navigating the world of alternative assets requires not just technical expertise, but a deep understanding of what investors across different markets truly value. Few people have had to adapt to those shifting demands as much as our guest today, Claire Smith. From Sydney to London and now back to Australia, Claire’s career has taken her across global financial hubs, where she has raised billions for infrastructure debt, private equity, and private credit strategies—gaining firsthand insight into the evolving appetite for alternative investments.

Claire started her career at Macquarie, where she transitioned from structured finance and derivatives into infrastructure debt investment, eventually leading fundraising efforts in Europe and securing over £4 billion in commitments for large-scale projects. In 2017, she joined Schroders in London, helping drive the firm’s expansion in private markets before returning to Sydney to lead business development for Schroders’ Australian private markets division. Her expertise spans infrastructure, real estate, private equity, and credit—sectors that have grown exponentially as institutional investors shift away from traditional asset classes.

In today’s episode, we explore Claire’s career in global finance, her perspective on the future of private assets, and what makes Schroders’ approach to private equity different from the traditional buyout model.

We’ll also discuss how she identifies high-potential investments, working with founder-led businesses, and her advice for young professionals looking to build a career overseas. We hope you enjoy

Building a global technology company from scratch is no easy feat—but building one out of a demountable office in an industrial business park is something else entirely. That’s exactly how TechnologyOne began. What started in the car park of JL Mactaggart Industries with a small investment and a big idea has since grown into one of Australia’s most successful enterprise software companies, now worth nearly $10 billion on the ASX.

At the helm of this extraordinary journey is our guest today, Adrian Di Marco. As the founder of TechnologyOne, Adrian pioneered one of Australia’s first true tech startups, navigating an industry that was still in its infancy. From creating cutting-edge relational database technology to taking on global giants like Oracle and SAP, he has spent decades proving that an Australian software company can not only compete but lead in the global enterprise market. Under his leadership, TechnologyOne has consistently doubled its revenues and profits every four to five years since listing on the ASX in 1999, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to innovation.

In today’s episode, we dive into Adrian’s remarkable career, from his early days in Brisbane to the founding and expansion of TechnologyOne into international markets.

We’ll also explore his thoughts on leadership, innovation, and what it takes to build a tech powerhouse in an industry dominated by global giants. We hope you enjoy

For many people in finance, the dream is to one day work in New York—the global hub of capital markets, where deals are made, trends are set, and some of the biggest investment opportunities are uncovered. Our next guest, William Liu, is living that dream. As a research analyst at Wilson Asset Management, he sits in New York, covering global equities for WAM —all at a relatively young age.

Will’s journey to WAM Global is a fascinating one, and in today’s episode, he takes us inside the world of global stock picking, sharing how he sources and evaluates investment opportunities from the heart of the financial world. We’ll also hear about some of his top picks at the moment, the trends shaping markets, and the investment philosophy that guides his decisions.

In today’s episode, we dive into Will’s path to landing a job in New York, his insights into the current investment landscape, and his advice for young professionals looking to break into the world of funds management.

The transition to a cleaner energy future is one of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—of our time. Critical minerals, the energy transition, and the innovation imperative for mining are all at the center of this global shift. Few people understand this landscape better than our guest today, Peter Bryant. As the Board Chair of Clareo and Co-Founder of the Development Partner Institute, Peter has spent his career advising global leaders on how to drive innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth in the resources sector.

Peter’s work spans some of the world’s most influential mining and energy companies, including Anglo American, BHP, and Rio Tinto. He has spoken at leading forums such as COP26, IMARC, and CERAWeek, and he leads the Key Minerals Forum, engaging with U.S. policymakers to shape the future of the global mining sector.

In today’s episode, we explore Peter’s insights into the evolving role of critical minerals, and how mining companies can balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.

We’ll also discuss the importance of innovation in the mining sector and how strategic leadership can position Australia as a global force in the energy transition.

The ability to apply a specific skillset across vastly different industries is a rare and valuable talent. Our next guest, Mitch Hooke AM, has done this exceptionally well. From pioneering reduced tillage farming systems on the Darling Downs to shaping market-oriented grain policies at the Grains Council of Australia, and later driving sustainable development as CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia, Mitch’s career demonstrates how expertise and adaptability can lead to profound impact across sectors.

Starting on a sheep property in Victoria and moving into public policy, Mitch has consistently bridged the gap between industry and advocacy. His work has influenced national and international debates, from deregulation in agriculture to sustainable practices in mining. More recently, he’s taken on a new challenge as part of the federal government’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme advisory committee, bringing his wealth of experience to support SMEs in commercializing innovative products.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. On today’s episode, we explore Mitch’s remarkable journey across agriculture, food, and mining, delving into his leadership style and the lessons he’s carried between industries.

We’ll also discuss his views on sustainability, his vision for the future of Australian industries, and the advice he has for young professionals entering public policy and advocacy.

We hope you enjoy this On-Air at IMARC episode!

Starting a transformative business is a bold move—but starting one with your brother, and only five years out of university, takes vision and confidence. In 1987, Terry Paule and his brother Spiro founded Financial Index, now known as Findex, with the goal of revolutionizing how Australians approach accounting and advisory services. What began as an innovative idea has grown into a national powerhouse with over 110 locations across Australia and New Zealand and more than $28 billion in funds under advice.

Terry’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop with Findex. Over the years, he’s diversified his efforts into ventures like Botanical Water Technologies and My Life Biocheese, combining business success with a passion for sustainability and global impact. His journey is a testament to the power of bold decisions and a commitment to making a difference.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. In today’s episode, we explore Terry’s remarkable career - from the early days of Findex to the strategic decisions that built it into a national leader.

We’ll also dive into his innovative projects in water technology and plant-based foods, his perspective on mentoring and philanthropy, and how he’s using business as a force for good.

We hope you enjoy.

Visit Terry's website to learn more about his current ventures: https://www.terrypaule.com/

Moving toward net zero is one of the defining challenges of our time, and ensuring that this transition is both effective and sustainable requires careful, considered leadership. Few people are better placed to navigate this than our next guest, Tania Constable, CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia. In her role, Tania is helping to push Australia in the right direction, balancing ambitious sustainability goals with practical decisions that consider the needs of all stakeholders.

Tania’s career journey is interesting. From her work at the CO2CRC, Australia’s leading research body for carbon capture and storage, to her tenure in government and now leading the MCA, she’s been at the forefront of critical issues shaping Australia’s resources and energy sectors. Her expertise and dedication have earned her widespread respect, as well as a Public Service Medal for her contributions to these industries.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. On today’s episode, we explore Tania’s transition from public service to leading the MCA, her approach to advocating for the mining sector, and the challenges and opportunities she sees in balancing economic growth with sustainability.

We hope you enjoy this On-Air at IMARC episode!

Maintaining an entrepreneurial spirit while working in a large organisation isn’t always easy, but for our next guest, Owen Hegarty, it became a defining part of his career. While at Rio Tinto, Owen saw opportunities others might have overlooked, particularly in junior resources. This mindset ultimately led him to make a bold decision—to turn down a safer, high-profile executive role at Rio Tinto and instead take a leap of faith to found Oxiana, a move that would go on to redefine his career and the Australian mining landscape.

Owen’s journey began with a foundation in economics before transitioning to mining, where he spent 25 years at Rio Tinto, gaining unmatched experience across commodities and continents. Guided by an entrepreneurial vision, he built Oxiana into a leading copper and gold miner, eventually merging it into OZ Minerals in a $12 billion deal. Today, as the founder of EMR Capital, Owen continues to shape the mining industry with his innovative approach to investment and development.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. On today’s episode, we explore Owen’s remarkable career, from his transformative years at Rio Tinto to building Oxiana into a mining powerhouse.

We’ll also discuss his insights into the evolving resources industry, the challenges of global operations, and his vision for Australia as a capital markets hub for mining.

We hope you enjoy this On-Air at IMARC episode!

Making the most of opportunities, no matter how far out of your comfort zone they may seem, can be the key to an extraordinary career. For our next guest, Jake Klein, this meant going to China to evaluate Chinese gold assets whilst he was still at Macquarie in his 20s. That experience not only took him halfway around the world but also set the stage for a career that would see him lead transformative ventures in the global gold mining industry.

Jake’s journey began far from the world of mining, with a background in accounting and corporate finance. From his time at Macquarie, where he helped spearhead the Asia Resource Capital joint venture, to founding Sino Gold and ultimately selling it for $2.2 billion, Jake has consistently challenged conventional wisdom and charted bold paths forward. He is a great example of someone who has carved out a very successful career in a field he did not study in and that his initial lack of knowledge of resources was only a mere hurdle, rather than a barrier.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. On today’s episode, we dive into Jake’s unique career journey and how a chance meeting with a visiting key Chinese official to the Macquarie offices led to Jake exploring a career in gold.

We explore the formation of Evolution Mining, the company he is now CEO of, and we also explore Jake’s views on Australia’s potential as a capital markets hub for mining.

We hope you enjoy this On-Air at IMARC episode!

We’ve heard countless success stories throughout our time hosting this podcast, but

perhaps none are as eye-opening and truly against the odds as this one. Our next

guest, Matt Kratiuk, has faced challenges that would break even the strongest

among us. From experiencing homelessness as a teenager to being caught up in

gang life and the grip of addiction, Matt’s story is a testament to resilience,

transformation, and the power of redefining one’s life.

Matt’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Today, he holds the role of Chief

Growth Officer at Tactic and is a passionate ambassador for the Vinnies CEO

Sleepout, where he’s helped raise enough funds to make a tangible difference in the

fight against homelessness. But the path from those early struggles to his current

influence in Queensland’s business community is filled with lessons, turning points,

and unwavering determination that we get the pleasure of unpacking today.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. In today’s

episode, we explore Matt’s incredible turnaround,

how he transitioned from hardship to the boardroom,

And we’ll also hear about Matt’s work with Vinnies and what drives him to make a

difference.

We hope you enjoy.

Mentorship can be one of the most pivotal aspects of acareer, offering guidance when the path ahead isn’t always clear. Today’s guest, Frank Danieli, knows the power of mentorship well. Throughout his career, he’s not only sought advice from industry veterans but has also become a mentor himself, guiding others through the intricacies of private credit and finance. Starting in audit and consulting, Frank’s journey led him to advisory roles and ultimately to heading the credit investments and lending platform at MA Financial.

Frank has worked on some of Australia’s most complexrestructures and mergers, like the Slater & Gordon deal, and brings a wealth of insight on navigating high-stakes transactions. He brings a unique perspective on the rise of private credit and helps us unpack the hype on today’s episode.

In today’s episode, we explore Frank’s journey and how this has shaped his approach to leadership and mentorship, we’ll discuss MA Financial’s strategic partnership with HummGroup and finally we will delve into MA Financial’s "war games" risk management method—a unique system that’s as innovative as it is rigorous.

We hope you enjoy

Alternative investments have gone from niche to nearly essential in today’s portfolios, offering investors the chance to diversify and seek returns uncorrelated with traditional markets. Our guest today, Stephen Darke, has spent his career at the forefront of this shift. As the CEO of Navigator Global Investments, Stephen’s work is centered on providing growth capital to alternative asset managers, supporting the innovative strategies that are reshaping the industry.

Stephen’s career journey has been fascinating starting out as a lawyer at Allens before transitioning to asset management and working internationally primarily in New York for Macquarie. His role now is leading Navigator on the ASX, where he’s driven impressive growth as Navigator looks to continue to find and invest in impressive alternative investing strategies.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. On today’s episode, we dive into Stephen’s unique perspective on the role of alternative investments in today’s market, his insights on managing uncorrelated strategies, and the trends shaping the future of asset management.

We have heard numerous times from guests of this podcast that no career is a straight line, but today’s guest, Brett Clark, truly embodies this mindset. From studying pharmacy at UQ to building a successful online business at the height of the dotcom era, Brett’s journey has been defined by his ability to seize opportunities, adapt, and thrive—even when the odds were stacked against him.

Brett’s career took off when he founded ePharmacy, a venture that defied the conventional wisdom of the time and emerged as a dotcom success story. With no business degree or computer skills at the outset, he built the company into a major player that eventually merged with Chemist Warehouse. Now, he’s at the forefront of one of Australia’s largest pharmacy retailers, managing its operations across Queensland and Northern NSW, and leading through periods of significant change and expansion.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. On today’s episode, we trace Brett’s journey from his early days in pharmacy to becoming a key figure in the healthcare retail space.

We’ll discuss the strategic merger between ePharmacy and Chemist Warehouse, dive into the recent Chemist Warehouse-Sigma deal, and explore Brett’s unique involvement in the worlds of rugby and ballet—two seemingly unrelated passions where his leadership continues to make an impact.

Lastly, we’ll touch on his philanthropic efforts, his role with the Brisbane 2032 Olympics

We hope you enjoy.

Getting an Australian life sciences business through what’s often called the "valley of death"—the treacherous journey from idea to commercialization—is no small feat. Many groundbreaking innovations get stuck in this phase, often starved of the capital and support they need to reach the market. Today’s guest, Anthony Liveris, is one of the few who are boldly tackling this challenge. Through his work at Proto Axiom, Anthony is leading the charge to bring world-class Australian science to the global stage, navigating the risks and obstacles that many never overcome.

Anthony was no stranger to the world of innovation and leadership, his early entrepreneurial spirit saw him launching a data analytics company, Applecart, before even finishing university. Now, with Proto Axiom, he's focused on incubating life sciences startups, ensuring they have both the financial backing and advisory network needed to succeed in a highly competitive global landscape.

On today’s episode, we dive into Anthony’s journey—from his early days as an entrepreneur to his current leadership at Proto Axiom.

We explore how he’s helping to transform Australia’s biotech sector, tackling the “valley of death” that prevents so many innovations from seeing the light of day. We’ll also touch on his passion for Pickleball Australia, a fast-growing sport that has captured Anthony’s attention.

We have all heard stories of the investment banking industry and the high-octane environment in which its people operate. Our next guest took that very industry by the scruff of the neck and by the ripe old age of 28 was Managing Director of UBS. All I can say is that Will & I better get cracking.

Andrew Pridham, an ambitious and hardworking young man from Adelaide who had built a sound understanding of the Australian property market with scribbly handwriting has gone on to become one of Australia’s highest profile and most revered investment banking professionals having held positions as Global Head of Real Estate & Head of Investment Banking for Australasia at UBS including as a member of the UBS Global Investment Banking Committee. He played a leading role as former Executive Chairman of Investment Banking at J.P. Morgan Australia right through to his role as co-founder of MA Financial Group in what was initially a joint venture between New York Stock Exchange Listed Moelis & Company and its Australian executives.

If that wasn’t enough Andrew has also fielded roles in various community positions and philanthropic initiatives. He is a diehard supporter of the Sydney Swans where he holds the position of Chairman of the Board and he is also unfortunately a diehard supporter of the Norwood Redlegs but we will not hold that against him! In addition to his sporting interests, Andrew actively gives back via significant philanthropic contributions to educational institutions, Indigenous programs and other wellness and self-improvement initiatives such as the MA Academy.

On today’s podcast, we unpack with Andrew the origins of his career as an investment banker and how it was that he so quickly rose the ranks of one of Australia’s most successful investment banks.

We hear from Andrew about what drew him back into investment banking and financial markets after some time away from the industry.

And we also hear from Andrew about the vision that he and his trusted management team are executing and further building upon at MA Financial.

We hope you enjoy!

With a career that bridges the worlds of science, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, this week’s guest, Anne-Marie Birkill, has left an indelible mark on Australia’s innovation landscape. With a background rooted in science and ecology, Anne-Marie’s career is a testament to her passion for turning groundbreaking ideas into commercial success stories. From her early days leading companies without a formal background in finance to her pivotal role in building OneVentures into one of Australia’s premier venture capital firms, Anne-Marie’s journey is one of perseverance, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to innovation.

Her work has not only fueled her own entrepreneurial pursuits but has also empowered countless other founders through her roles within the University of Queensland and beyond. Today, as a partner at OneVentures and a board member of several influential companies, Anne-Marie continues to shape the future of Australia’s innovation landscape.

On today’s podcast, we explore Anne-Marie’s early career and how her scientific background influenced her entrepreneurial journey.

We delve into the creation and growth of OneVentures, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in raising capital and driving successful investments.

And finally, we explore her approach to board roles and what it takes to make a meaningful impact as a director in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Navigating a dynamic career across law, politics, and corporate governance, this week’s guest, Andrew Fraser, has been at the forefront of significant developments in both the public and private sectors. Starting as a young law and commerce graduate, Andrew quickly made a name for himself by stepping into the public eye as the State Member for Mount Coot-tha at just 27 years old. His meteoric rise continued when he became Queensland’s Treasurer under Premier Anna Bligh, where he led landmark initiatives, including the historic float of QR National.

With a sharp mind for strategy and deal-making, Andrew transitioned seamlessly from public office to impactful roles in the corporate world, including as the Head of Strategy & Investment at the NRL. Today, as Chair of the Australian Retirement Trust, Andrew oversees the retirement savings of over 2.3 million Australians, guiding the strategic direction of a fund managing over $280 billion in assets. His influence extends across various boards, including the Brisbane Broncos, the Bank of Queensland and Griffith University, making him a key figure in both business, education and sports.

On today’s podcast, we explore Andrew’s early beginnings and what brought him to Brisbane.

We delve into his impressive political career, discussing the challenges of earning respect at a young age and managing the complexities of public messaging in capital markets.

And finally, we discuss his current roles in the superannuation sector and various board positions, unpacking what it takes to lead and influence across diverse industries.

'Patient capital invested across public and private markets, building long-term intergenerational wealth.' This is the line that our next guests live by. This week's guests are Nathan Robertson and Josh Derrington from Brisbane-based family office advisory firm, Alvia Asset Partners.

From humble beginnings and valuable lessons learned in their early careers to the inception and growth of Alvia Asset Partners, they offer insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a successful investment firm. They delve into the strategic decisions behind assembling a respected advisory board, including notable figures like former QIC and Telstra Super CIO Jim Christensen, and how these moves have shaped the firm's growth trajectory.

We explore the firm's offerings, with a particular focus on their appeal to family offices and the factors that set Alvia apart in a competitive market. Nathan discusses his transition from larger institutional players to Alvia, sharing what drew him to the firm and his vision for its future. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of public versus private markets, with Josh and Nathan offering their perspectives on company exits, the ASX's opportunities, and the role of private equity.

As we dive deeper, Josh and Nathan explain the philosophical underpinnings of Alvia's investment strategy, including their approach to managing a diverse portfolio across public and private markets. They provide a behind-the-scenes look at their process for evaluating and executing investment opportunities and discuss how they keep their team motivated and engaged.

Finally, we hear about the strategic vision for Alvia and their ambitions as leaders in the industry. We hope you enjoy.

Starting his career with a strong foundation in strategic communications, our next guest has built an impressive legacy in the industry. From the inception of his one-person operation to becoming a recognized leader, he has consistently demonstrated innovative thinking and exceptional leadership.

Geoff Rodgers OAM began his journey with humble beginnings, learning invaluable lessons from his first job. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Rowland, a company that has grown to become a ‘go-to’ agency for big projects and complex problems. Rowland’s unique integrated service model, combining five specialist practice groups, sets it apart from traditional public relations firms, offering comprehensive solutions to its clients.

Geoff's leadership has guided Rowland through pivotal moments since its inception in 1992. His approach to strategic communications has evolved with the industry, and his insights into issues management and stakeholder engagement are invaluable for businesses facing significant public relations crises today. Beyond his professional achievements, Geoff's involvement with organizations like the Brothers Rugby Club, and the CEO sleepout, highlights his commitment to community engagement.

On today’s podcast, Geoff Rodgers shares his journey from the early days of founding Rowland.

He explains the benefits of Rowland's unique integrated service model and its impact on clients.

He provides valuable advice on navigating public relations crises and stakeholder engagement.

And finally, he reflects on his community involvement.

We hope you enjoy.

From her beginnings in engineering to discovering a passion for occupational therapy, our next guest's journey is nothing short of inspiring. She navigated the challenges of a thyroid cancer diagnosis after discovering it herself in her first year of anatomy and emerged stronger, channelling her experiences into a life of helping others and driving innovation.

Amelia St Baker's early career saw her pivot from engineering to occupational therapy, a move that proved pivotal not only in her personal life but also in her professional path. Her time at the University of Queensland, culminated in her being the youngest ever MBA recipient.

Amelia's journey led to the creation of Ninja Allied Health, a company born from her passion for improving the status quo in the allied health space. Her innovative approach and dedication to service are evident in Ninja's offerings across both the NDIS and Medico-Legal spheres.

On today’s podcast, Amelia St Baker shares what drove her to change from engineering to occupational therapy.

She discusses her passion for continuous learning and how she has consistently defied expectations by proving those who doubted her capabilities wrong.

She provides insights into the founding of Ninja Allied Health and its unique approach to client care.

And finally, she offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and her vision for the future of Ninja.

We hope you enjoy.

Starting his career in business banking, our next guest has spent over two decades at NAB, rising through the ranks to become a pivotal figure in Australia's banking sector. Known for his strategic acumen and client-centric approach, he has played a significant role in shaping the future of private banking in Australia.

Ivano Simonutti, the National General Manager of NAB’s Private Bank, began his journey with a keen interest in business banking. His early roles provided him with a strong foundation and invaluable lessons that have stuck with him throughout his career. In 2020, Ivano transitioned into private banking, taking over as General Manager for NAB’s private banking division in Queensland, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory. This move marked a significant shift, bringing new challenges and opportunities.

In recent times NAB Private Wealth has undergone a significant transformation following a strategic review in 2019. The decision to merge NAB Private, JBWere, and nabtrade was a game-changer, leading to substantial milestones in revenues, products, and services. One of the standout strategies has been the "Team of 4" approach, an evolution of the successful "Team of 3" model, which has generated significant new business and provided a seamless, integrated experience for clients.

 On today’s podcast, Ivano Simonutti takes us through his early career and transition into private banking.

He explains the innovative "Team of 4" approach and how it has reshaped client experiences.

He shares insights on the strategic direction and future aspirations of NAB Private Wealth.

And finally, he offers invaluable advice for young professionals working in a large firm and discusses the evolving role of private banking.

We hope you enjoy.

From his humble beginnings as the grandson of Greek immigrants in Darwin, today’s guests’ path has been marked by relentless determination, exceptional talent, and a visionary mindset.

In today's episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Andrew N. Liveris AO, a towering figure in global business and leadership.

Andrew's early years, spent in Darwin and later Brisbane, laid the foundation for his stellar academic achievements, including earning first-class honours in Chemical Engineering at the University of Queensland and being awarded the University Medal. His journey then took a significant turn when he joined Dow in Melbourne, a company he once protested against at university as a long-haired non-conforming uni student. His career at Dow would eventually see him rise to the roles of CEO and Chairman of the Board.

Throughout his tenure at Dow, Andrew's focus on innovation and investment in high-value markets transformed the company from a cyclical chemical manufacturer into a science-driven powerhouse. His strategic leadership was evident in landmark achievements, such as the acquisition of Rohm & Haas during economic uncertainty and the monumental $130 billion merger of Dow and DuPont, leading to the creation of three separate entities.

Andrew's book, "Leadership Through Disruption: A Changemaker’s Guide to Twenty-First Century Leadership," encapsulates his philosophy with key lessons on leadership, crisis management, and self-disruption. His ability to navigate complex international business environments, exemplified by his work various global advisory and board roles, further underscores his exceptional leadership capabilities, along with his many charitable contributions.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of. I’m Will, and I’m Charlie. On today's podcast, Andrew shares his journey from Darwin to global business leadership.

He discusses his transformative vision for Dow and the strategic moves that redefined the company.

He provides insights into his leadership philosophy and international business engagements.

And finally, he talks about his philanthropic endeavours and the lessons he has for the next generation of leaders.

We hope you enjoy.

What does the sport of sailing and funds management have in common? Not a lot one would’ve thought, but our next guest was an Olympic sailor, turned fund manager.

This week’s guest is Tom King, Olympic gold medallist and now Chief Investment Officer at Nanuk Asset Management. Tom, after finding the sport of sailing on the back of what was for a large part chance as a teenager, fell in love with it and had a real natural talent for making the margin calls necessary to be successful in the support.

Many competitions later and hours spent on the water, Tom was competing at his home Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000. Tom, along with his partner Mark Turnbull remarkably received gold.

Since leaving the water, Tom has pursued a career in finance where he has held roles at large banks, family offices (including the renowned Consolidated Press Holdings) and is now continuing the strategy of Nanuk Asset Management, a funds management business focussed on investing in the thematic of environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. Nanuk, as Tom explains during the episode, was incredibly early to this trend, perhaps even too early as Tom even admits during the interview.

Now however, Nanuk sits poised as an experienced and seasoned player in the space with a portfolio of companies it thinks can outperform and deliver investors strong returns.

On todays podcast we unpack Tom’s days as a professional sailor and how these skills set him up, oddly, for a career in funds management.

Tom unpacks the early days of Nanuk Asset Management and how they went about starting the fund, crafting the investment strategy and raising the initial money.

Finally, Tom outlines where Nanuk sits now and where it is heading in the future.

Hailing from New Zealand, this week’s guest has made his name in Australia’s burgeoning property market. Jason Huljich, co-founder and still co-CEO of Centuria Capital Group, has led Centuria to the point where it is one of Australia’s premier investment firms.

Jason started Centuria in 1999 with John McBain, who he was many years his junior, with Jason using his property consultancy experience to find properties that he saw immense value and upside in.

Now with over $21.1bn, Centuria is diversified across investments in not just property but private credit and investment bonds, and has been delivering its investors consistent, outsized returns.

On today’s podcast we unpack Jason’s career to date and how he went about founding Centuria,

We explore Centuria’s key investment strategies,

And finally, we pick his brains about Australia’s property market and its key differences compared to its overseas counterparts.

We hope you enjoy!

We are all familiar with a wicketkeeper in cricket or a goalkeeper in soccer but rarely are they the hero of a sporting fixture. However, a mistake can be incredibly costly and your role in keeping the ship sailing smoothly is paramount. Being a corporate lawyer is very much the same.

This episode's guest, Tim Gordon, has made a career out of being one of the most dependable and highly revered corporate lawyers in the country. Tim is Executive Partner at Gilbert + Tobin, a firm that is renowned for their unwavering dedication to client service and for delivering positive outcomes to the relevant stakeholders in their engagements.

As a young lawyer with a passion for working on complex and significant deals, Tim worked his way successfully through the ranks of Gilbert + Tobin to his position today where he oversees a firm that is regarded as a market leader.

On today's podcast we hear the incredible backstory that underpins the remarkable growth of Gilbert + Tobin into a dominant advisor within Australian capital markets.

We gain an insight into life as a lawyer working on highly complex and demanding transactions and how Gilbert + Tobin positions themselves to attract the best talent in the market.

Finally, we explore the future direction of Gilbert + Tobin and how Tim is working alongside his highly talented team to guide the firm forward.

Set on a mission to stop the number 1 killer of Australians, this week's guests have taken a huge leap at a big opportunity. Meet Jake, Lachlan and Griffo, from Naturally Cooked, 3 boys taking sun safety seriously.

Struck by the impacts of skincancer on the Australian population, the boys decided to revitalise the act of putting sunscreen on. They have an exciting plan that is in place to engage young people and particularly young men to get them back wearing sunscreen to fight these shocking numbers that they speak to this episode. And along the way they are donating 10% of their profits to supporting Mental Health.

Hello and welcome back to the Business Of, this is the first episode of our new series – “Up and Coming”.

In this 4-part series we are speaking with some of the most exciting up-and-comers as they let us into the behind-scenes of their young careers and exciting ideas.

In this episode, we unpack with Jake, Lachie and Griffo the genesis for starting their own business in a niche market;

The challenges of running a business in conjunction with working full-time;

And finally, we look towards the future for Naturally Cooked and their goals.

In chatting with some of Australia’s greatest business leaders and figures over the past 50 plus episodes, the common theme that has emerged is that people will ultimately play a significant role in any business.

Our next guests are experts in people. Loretta McGeachin and Sara Villella have formed a strong duo which they started through the process of developing a market leading Workforce Advisory offering at a big 4 accounting firm and have since transitioned to Vincents to be part of what is now an exciting expansion for one of Australia’s leading mid-tier advisory firms.

The Workforce Advisory offering addresses many of corporate Australia’s most neglected challenges including Change Management, HR Due Dilligence, Leadership Optimisation, Succession Planning and Workforce Diversity & Inclusion and is capable of working with businesses with no existing HR function as well as slotting in to work alongside experienced HR teams and C-Suite management to achieve valuable outcomes.

In the episode, we unpack with Loretta and Sara what is involved in the Vincents Workforce Advisory offering. We talk through the commercial relevance of the offering to business owners. Finally, we discuss the current workforce environment and key topics at the Board, government and employee levels including the likes of working from home and the right to disconnect.

We hope you enjoy!

In a South Vietnam battlefield where the fog was so thick you could barely see 10 metres in front of yourself, with no direct fire support and just a platoon of young soldiers in tow to take out an occupied enemy bunker, it was under these sets of circumstances that our next guest, Sir Peter Cosgrove, pulled off his first of many remarkable military feats.

The son of a soldier, Peter joined the army when he was just 18 years old. Across his 40 years of military service Peter was the epitome of bravery, courage and selflessness. He rose quickly through the ranks of the army, commanding the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment in the mid-1980s.

But it was in 1999 that Cosgrove was thrust into the public eye, when, as major general, he led the INTERFET in a peacekeeping mission to East Timor. Peter led the mission, despite the highly delicate situation he faced, with poise and pragmatism leading to its massive success. Following the mission, Cosgrove was one of the nation’s most respected military leaders and this ultimately led to his role as Chief of the Defence Force from 2002-2005.

Upon retiring from the military, Peter could have easily hung up the boots, but instead he played crucial roles in the Cyclone Larry taskforce and took on board roles at Qantas and Australian Rugby Union before ultimately being recommended for Governor General in 2014.

His tenure as Governor General saw 3 Australian Prime Minister’s be sworn in and over 4,200 public engagements in 5 years of service.

Hello and welcome back to the Business Of, I’m Will and I’m Charlie. On today’s podcast Peter unpacks his formative years with us which led to him joining the military,

He sheds light on the governor-general role,

And finally, He shares some invaluable leadership lessons with us his thoughts on what makes a good prime minister.

We hope you enjoy.

You would all be familiar with Australia’s status as a resources powerhouse. Digging stuff up out of the ground has long been our specialty with it not being uncommon for a figure on the AFR’s Rich List to have a resources background.

Our next guest, Benjamin Cleary, is a subject matter expert. Ben heads up Tribeca’s Natural Resources business but alongside David Alyward has been critical in growing the entire Tribeca business. Ben’s role in building Tribeca into a multi billion dollar Fund manager with expertise across asset management, wealth management, and corporate advisory has been significant. Ben’s role in growing Tribeca’s business throughout Singapore has been a catalyst for getting the business to today’s position.

Through Tribeca, Ben has cornerstoned over $10b in natural resources transactions working closely

alongside financial advisers and companies. Today he heads up the ASX-listed Tribeca Global Natural Resources Fund, investing across listed companies locally and overseas, direct investments in carbon credits, commodities and private sector debt.

Hello and welcome back to The Business Of, I’m Charlie and I’m Will.

On today’s podcast we unpack with Ben the genesis for his rise at Tribeca on the back of a shake up in the financial services industry post GFC.

We get Ben’s thoughts on the regulatory environment in which local and global resources companies are operating.

Finally, we get Ben’s take on the impact of electrification on demand for critical minerals and resources such as copper while considering potential issues associated with the supply of the goods.

We hope you enjoy!

Working at the interface of industry, government and universities seeking to drive research value into the community, our next guest is Paul Nicholls, Executive Director of Research Partnerships at the University of Queensland.

Universities such as UQ are the backbone of some of the most important research that solves some of the biggest issues facing Australia and more broadly, the world. Paul heads up the crucial team at UQ that connects industry to world-class researchers to ensure that the brilliant research and findings are turned into real community and social impact.

Hello and welcome back to the Business Of, I’m Charlie and I’m Will. On todays podcast we unpack with Paul how he became involved in the wide-world of university research.

How UQ is working in consultation with industry to create meaningful research outcomes that drive our society forward.

And finally, he provides an insight into the sheer depth of UQ’s research team.

When you say the name Liz Ellis to someone, their train of thought could justifiably go in a multitude of different directions. She is someone who has accomplished so much.

Whether it be her unbelievable netball career in which she was named Australian Netball’s most valuable player on 4 separate occasions, her role as a commentator in the coverage of Australia’s domestic netball competition, or even her role on the hit tv show I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here – chances are that you know Liz Ellis AO.

Liz’s undeniable ability to manage a multitude of commitments has characterized her life for many years. In her early days as an aspirational professional netballer she remarkably completed a law degree from Macquarie University – proving that even for a professional netballer it is possible to balance a wide array of commitments.

Although it may sound as though Liz is one of those annoying people who is just good at every endeavour she undertakes, it is undoubtedly her laser focus and willingness to persevere in the face of adversity that has seen her achieve these feats.

Hello and welcome back to the Business Of, I’m Charlie and I’m Will.

On today’s podcast we unpack with Liz her formative years as an elite athlete,

The keys to her longstanding success at the top of her chosen discipline, even in the face of an injury that would justifiably be enough to step away.

Finally, we hear from Liz about her career post netball and how this has taken her down paths she probably never thought she would travel.

We hope you enjoy!

Credited as being the firm that brought the sharemarket to ‘Mum and Dad’ investors, our next guest is Tim Crommelin of Morgans Financial Limited, Australia’s largest full-service stockbroking and wealth management network.

Tim played a crucial role in the formative years of the company, having started in 1986 and working closely with founder Paul Morgan. As you will hear, Tim has lived and breathed the markets since he was 19 after he failed a handful of uni subjects and then having to get a job to fund his studies.

Tim has seen brutal bear markets and crashes and incredible bull runs throughout his career that spans not just broking but also corporate finance as Morgans was built to a company that today has more than 240,000 client accounts, 500 authorised representatives, 59 branches, and close to 1,000 employees with offices in all states and territories.

Morgans’ rich history includes raising over $30 billion in new capital in over 1,500 transactions including for ASX market stalwarts Dominoes, Lovisa, Data 3, Beacon Lighting and Bank of Queensland. As the financial services and stockbroking industry has changed, Morgans has adapted and as Tim will go on to explain, Morgans, which has recorded a profit every year since its inception, looks set for a bright future.

Tim is now Chairman of AP Eagers and we hear the story of how he became involved with the company.

Hello and welcome back to the Business of, I’m Will and I’m Charlie. On today’s podcast we delve into Tim’s former years and how he was drawn to the stockbroking industry.

We explore the rich history of Morgans and the role Tim played in its formation

And Tim shares some invaluable stories and advice.

We hope you enjoy.

In this week’s episode Will Chapman and Charlie Selth are joined by Ronni Kahn AO to discuss her role in founding one of Australia’s most recognised and impactful charities in OzHarvest.

The discussion reveals some invaluable insights into Ronni’s efforts in becoming one of Australia’s leading social entrepreneurs and voices for meaningful change.

Key talking points from the discussion include:

• The issue of food waste and how it was through Ronni’s initial time spent in the events management industry that she identified a major flaw in the way in which we handle food as a nation.
• Scaling a Charity and aligning its interests with the best interests of the community by unlocking social, environmental and economic benefits through OzHarvest’s programs.
• Ronni speaks to OzHarvest’s current initiatives and how they are making life easier for people who need it – never more important than in the current economic climate.

We hope you enjoy!