Alumni News January to March 2026
Spanning panels, masterclasses, networking events and global gatherings, our alumni kicked off 2026 with a wide range of opportunities to connect and learn. Alumni were also in the headlines, from award-winning leaders to published authors and new leadership appointments.
MBA innovation bootcamp kicks off 2026
We kicked off the year with the energy and creativity of our MBA students at the Melbourne Business School Innovation Bootcamp from 12 to 16 January.
Throughout the week, students developed and refined their ideas with guidance from alumni and industry leaders. Our thanks to panellists Hany Massarany (MBA 1993), Colin McLeod and Melbourne Business School Dean, Professor Jenny George, for their practical insights.
We are grateful to our mentors for challenging teams and broadening perspectives: Lorace (Tianshu) Zhang, Kaushal O., Lindsay Curtiss (MBA candidate), Dave L. Light, Lenny Chudri (MBA 2014), Agatha Jesslyn (MBA candidate), Alia Alsagoff and Fernando Gargollo (MBA 2025).
Thank you also to our guest speakers Xue Huang (MBA 2014) from NexusMD.ai, Lyndon Galea (MBA 2025) from Eat Up Australia, Ash Knop and Heath Evans from Wilderlands, and Lauren Morrey (MBA 2018) from Breakthrough Victoria for an engaging wrap-up.
We also acknowledge Wai Ling Seto for coordinating the program.
London meetup with the Dean
On Monday, 27 January, alumni gathered in London for a vibrant meetup with the Dean Jenny George, hosted by chapter leaders John Oliveri (MBA 2013), Remya Ramesh (MBA 2018) and Sasini Wijesiri (MBA 2020), despite the winter chill.
The event brought together a strong mix of familiar and new faces across cohorts and programs, reflecting the global reach and shared connection of the Melbourne Business School community.
Professor George shared updates on the School's recent progress and future direction, highlighting key areas of focus including Emerging Social Purpose Leadership, Sustainable Value Creation, Indigenous scholarships, and digital innovation and AI.
We thank Jenny George for joining and supporting the evening, along with Trent Smyth AM (MBA 2002) for his ongoing generosity and sponsorship.
Brisbane alumni examine trust attitudes and AI with Professor Nicole Gillespie
On Friday, 6 February, Professor Nicole Gillespie, Chair of Trust at Melbourne Business School, shared insights from her latest research, 'Trust, attitudes and use of artificial intelligence: A Global Study 2025' with our alumni in Brisbane.
"It was wonderful to meet many of our Brisbane alumni," Professor Gillespie said. "It was fantastic to see the diversity of the cohort spanning many years coming together and the open sharing of experiences and perspectives."
As Damien Foley (MBA 2023) commented: "Notable was AI being adopted by emerging countries more then developed countries. Also Australia is less trusting of AI compared to other developed countries. Look forward to hearing on future studies as we find AI an ever-growing area in business."
Our thanks to Queensland Chapter President, Susan Chenoweth (SEMBA 2021) for seizing this last-minute opportunity to maximise Professor Gillespie's trip to Brisbane.
Veterans alumni reconnect in Melbourne
On Thursday, 26 February, members of the Melbourne Business School Veterans Alumni community gathered for an informal catch-up over drinks and dinner at Morris House in Melbourne.
The evening brought together a diverse mix of current and former Australian Defence Force members across our MBA programs.
Conversations ranged from good-natured inter-service rivalry to shared reflections on military service, alongside discussions on career transitions, professional growth and the opportunities shaped by study at MBS.
Open to all who have served, the Veterans Alumni chapter continues to foster strong connections across the network. The group looks forward to meeting again in the lead-up to ANZAC Day.
Thank you to Michael Cahill (EMBA 2021) and Daniel Ha (MBA 2025) for organising the evening.
Associate Professor Onur Ozgur delivers lecture to alums on the power of networks
On Friday, 27 February, around 90 alumni gathered at Melbourne Business School for an engaging Alumni Evening with Associate Professor Onur Ozgur.
Onur explored how networks shape our lives, from neurons and galaxies to friendships, financial systems and career paths. He highlighted how connections are often purposeful rather than random, how 'birds of a feather' tendencies can lead to echo chambers, and how those positioned as brokers and bridge-builders can hold significant influence.
He also reflected on the 'strength of weak ties', noting the important role that broader networks play in opening up new opportunities.
Following the session, the Hub cafe was buzzing as alumni connected with Online MBA students visiting from across Australia, bringing these ideas to life through new and meaningful connections.
Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Community discuss the realities of running a business
On Thursday, 5 March, more than 100 alumni and students gathered at Melbourne Business School for a panel discussion on the realities of leading and growing an acquired business, hosted by the Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Community.
Moderated by Professor of Strategy Geoff Martin (MBA 2002), the panel featured Transrock Director Tim Stevenson (MBA 2018), Multipac Australia director Jordon Gibson and former Smokeshield director Nikita Gossain, who shared candid insights from their experience operating businesses post-acquisition.
The discussion explored the transition from buyer to operator, the challenges of managing continuity and talent, the importance of motivating teams and retaining key people, and balancing the need for growth vs stability. Panellists also highlighted the value of staying connected with the ETA community when navigating unfamiliar challenges.
The evening concluded with networking drinks at Prince Alfred Carlton.
Progress and purpose at International Women's Day High Tea
On Saturday, 7 March, the Women's Alumni Network, in partnership with the Women in Management Club (WIM), hosted an International Women's Day High Tea, bringing together around 60 alumni, students and women professionals.
The discussion was moderated by Associate Professor Jody Evans, Director of the Women in Leadership programs, with panellists Elizabeth Wilson (Victorian Department of Education), Wendy Stops (Coles and Melbourne Business School) and Natasha Santha (MBA 2008 and also from RACV), who shared insights on advancing gender equality in today's workplace.
The conversation highlighted the importance of sponsorship, intentional hiring and everyday actions that support inclusion, alongside the need for systemic change to sustain progress. Panellists emphasised the role of advocacy, visibility and strong support networks, encouraging attendees to take practical steps to support others and drive cultural change.
Thank you to Women's Alumni Network President Claire Anglim (MBA 2023 and pictured, above) and committee members Caitlin Lynch (MBA 2021), Afsaneh Rashidi (MBA 2024) and Jennifer Mancuso (MBA 2023), and to Women in Management Student Club President Fiona Sherwin and her team Mona Jhoty, Penny Bell, Jessica Maung and Jennifer Do for delivering the event.
Harvard and Melbourne Business School alumni explore leadership through the Lance Armstrong case
On Thursday, 12 March, alumni from Melbourne Business School and the Harvard Club of Victoria gathered at Melbourne Business School for 'Leadership Lessons from Sport: Lance Armstrong, Hero or Villain?', a case-study class that explored leadership, ethics and decision-making.
Led by Ted Blamey (Harvard MBA 1970), the session used the Lance Armstrong case to examine complex questions around integrity, accountability and performance under pressure. Through discussion, attendees considered what defines a 'level playing field' the boundaries of fair competition, and the role of leaders in setting direction, values and culture.
The conversation also explored why individuals make unethical choices, highlighting the influence of incentives, reputation, team dynamics and the pressure to win, and the broader consequences of those decisions on organisations and communities.
True to the case method, the session challenged participants to reflect on their own leadership choices, asking: When the stakes are high and the outcome uncertain, how far would you go to win?
Thank you to the Harvard Club of Victoria and its President Justin Fung for organising the event and bringing together both alumni communities.
Alumni Entrepreneurship Chapter discuss turning ideas into ventures across the University of Melbourne
Alumni gathered on Wednesday, 18 March at Melbourne Business School for an Entrepreneurship Chapter event focused on supporting founders, operators and investors.
Moderated by Robert Lee (MBA 2025), the session featured Michael Poisel, Executive Director of the Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre, who outlined the support available to founders and highlighted the growing challenge of standing out, as AI drives increasing similarity in startup pitch decks.
Alumni and students shared their own journeys. Josh Murray (MBA candidate) spoke about building Josh's Rainbow Eggs from a childhood venture to national supermarket shelves, while Leo Leng (Master of Business Analytics 2015) reflected on moving from corporate roles to founding Supaw Pet Bakery. Alan Cui (MBA 2014) emphasised the importance of passion and commitment in entrepreneurship.
Associate Professor Kwanghui Lim closed the session with reflections on innovation at MBS.
The evening concluded with drinks at the Hub cafe, continuing conversations across the startup community.
A big thanks to the organising team: Co-Presidents Leo Leng (MBA 2014), Sunny Singh (MBA 2020), and Priyanka Nadkarni (MBA 2014), plus committee members Robert Lee and Rahul Sud (both MBA 2025).
Western Australia alumni event: Economics for the 21st Century
On Thursday, 19 March, alumni gathered in Perth for a Western Australia Chapter event at BDO Australia, exploring the role of economics in addressing today’s challenges.
Guest speaker Alan Langford, former Bankwest Chief Economist and Adjunct Professor at Curtin University, examined the historical use of interest rates and other economic levers by Australian and US governments over the past century, drew parallels between historical events and current economic policy decisions and discussed how economic policy can shape social welfare and sustainability.
The evening concluded with networking over drinks.
Thank you to the WA Chapter Committee: Craig Hook (MBA 1997), Kristy Porter (SEMBA 2021), Vid Kadiresan (EMBA 2024) and Laura Atkinson (MBA 2025), and to BDO Perth for hosting.
Alumni in the news
Congratulations to Shriram Iyer (MBA 2009), also known professionally as Siyer, for being a featured artist on the Grammy-nominated album ‘Shayan’ by jazz composer and pianist Charu Suri. Iyer provides the vocals for the track ‘Inner Peace’, which blends Indian classical elements with contemporary soundscapes, and Shayan has been nominated for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. Iyer is a professional singer, composer and leadership coach whose album ‘Rain of Bhakti (Timeless Mantras)’ previously won ‘Best Global Traditional Album’ and ‘Best Global Traditional Song – Divinity’ at the World Entertainment Awards in Los Angeles.
Steve Cotterill (EMBA 2017) is launching his debut poetry collection, as i am, an intimate evening of readings, conversation, and connection at the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum in Southbank VIC. Steve is the inaugural Poet Laureate for the Australian Veteran & Veteran Family Community and a former Army cavalryman. Part of the Festival of Veterans Arts, this free event includes drinks and nibbles. Saturday, 28 March, 6–8pm | Australian National Veterans Arts Museum, Southbank VIC. Register here. Pre-order the book here.
Alumni appointments
Adam Hales (MBA 2012) has been appointed Associate Partner at PMP Strategy, based in the firm's New York office. A seasoned Telecom, Media and Technology (TMT) leader, Hales brings more than 16 years of global consulting and operational experience, having previously held senior roles at Kearney, Boston Consulting Group and Delta Partners. His expertise spans 5G monetisation, network modernization, enterprise ICT strategy and large-scale organizational transformation, with experience advising clients across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and North America. In his new role, Hales will strengthen PMP Strategy's North American TMT practice.
Campbell Olsen (MBA 1997) has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Lion One Metals Ltd., as part of a strategic investment and partnership with Arete Capital Partners, where he currently serves as CEO. An experienced mining executive, Olsen brings strong operational and leadership expertise, with Arete committing a significant equity investment and taking an active role in the company's next phase. In his new position, Olsen will lead Lion One's growth and development strategy while working closely with Arete to strengthen operations, advance project delivery and unlock shareholder value.
Sarah Connelly (MBA 2016) returns to Nous Group's Brisbane office as Principal. Connelly rejoined after an 18-month tenure as Chief of Staff at Griffith University and brings specialist experience in strategy, organisational performance and transformation. She first joined Nous in 2011 while completing her MBA and began her consulting career with eight years at PwC, including time in New York, positioning her to support complex strategic and performance-driven client engagements.
Scott Tanner (Senior Executive MBA 1990) has joined professional services firm KordaMentha as a partner in its performance improvement business and leader of its financial services industry team. Scott has held senior executive roles at Westpac where he served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Digital Officer, and CEO at Bank of Melbourne. Prior to this Scott was a Director at Bain & Company and Head of Bain's financial services practice in the Asia Pacific. He has served on numerous boards, and is currently Executive Chairman of luxury real estate firm Kay & Burton, Managing Director of finance brokerage firm GreenBack Capital, and Chairman of IMRA. Read about his appointment here.
Sean Lim (MBA 2013) has been appointed to the Board of National Disability Services (NDS) as an Appointed Director. An experienced finance and banking professional, Lim brings more than 20 years of expertise in financial reporting, data analytics and business improvement, with previous senior roles at National Australia Bank, AMP, Wishlist Holdings and Ernst & Young. He currently works in finance at The Salvation Army, supporting revenue generation to fund social justice initiatives across Australia. In addition to his executive career, Lim is an active board member and volunteer, serving with St Joseph's Outreach Services and Rainbow Giving Australia. In his new role, he will contribute financial, governance and not-for-profit expertise to support NDS, its members and the broader disability sector.
Australia Day 2026 Honours List
Congratulations to three Melbourne Business School alumni recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours for their outstanding contributions to business, community, and public life.
Officer of the Order of Australia (AO)
Professor Anne Kelso AO (Leadership Development Program 2003). For eminent service to health and medical research sciences and administration, to Australian influenza preparedness, and to gender equity.
Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
Michael John Betts (MBA 1981). For significant service to the community of Geelong.
Member of the Order of Australia in the Military Division (AM)
Group Captain Aleisha Maree Broadhead (MBA 2012). For exceptional service to the Australian Defence Force in the introduction of the F-35A Lightning II and the sustainment of air traffic management capabilities.
Melbourne Business School also extends its congratulations to board member Anthony Burgess, appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to business, to tertiary education, to philanthropic corporate governance and benefaction, and to the arts.
To learn more about the Melbourne Business School alumni community, visit our Alumni page, explore upcoming events, or join our Melbourne Business School alumni LinkedIn group.
