Alumni News June to September 2025
Showcasing the achievements, insights and impact of Melbourne Business School graduates worldwide
Events
Alumni meetup in San Francisco (pictured, above)
Alumni in the Bay Area came together for an informal gathering at the President’s Terrace in Palo Alto. Hosted by Melbourne Business School Dean Jenny George, the event offered a chance to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the global MBS community.
Professor George said meeting alumni in the heart of Silicon Valley had a personal significance to her as she spent many years as a student in the Bay Area, where she completed her PhD at Stanford University.
Organised with the support of local alum Celia Schebella (MBA 2005), an operations manager at Contextlab.ai, the evening brought together alumni from across industries from tech and finance to healthcare and manufacturing.
NSW alumni explore resilience and leadership in Sydney (pictured, above)
In Sydney alumni gathered for an evening of insights and connection in August (pictured, above). Professor of Strategy Geoff Martin and Associate Professor of Strategy David Keith led engaging discussions on two key leadership challenges: building organisational resilience and escaping the “capability trap.”
Geoff shared a holistic framework for resilience, highlighting the importance of emotional stability, adaptability, and strong stakeholder relationships. David explored how organisations fall into the trap of working harder instead of smarter and offered strategies for long-term capability-building and productivity. After the session, alumni joined Online MBA summit participants for networking and dinner.
Thank you to Geoff and David and our NSW Alumni Chapter committee members Selwyn D’Souza (MBA 1995), Andrew Wilson (MBA 2013) and Michael Diamond (MBA 2002) for making it happen.
Milestone reunions for Classes of 1995 and 2005
In June, we kicked off our milestone reunion series for the Classes of 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005, and 2015. First to celebrate was the Class of 1995 marking their 30-year reunion in June (pictured, below). Fifteen alumni gathered in the Kearney Boardroom at Melbourne Business School to reminisce, reconnect, and share stories of their journeys since graduation.
Joining the celebration were former Dean of Melbourne Business School Professor Emeritus Ian Harper AO, and Deputy Dean and Professor of Operations Tava Olsen. Also in attendance from the class of 1995 were Melbourne Business School Board Member Claire Rogers and NSW Alumni Chapter President Selwyn D’Souza.
In August, the Class of 2005 celebrated their 20-year reunion in the school’s Dining Room (pictured, above). The event brought together alumni from across the globe, including Hong Kong, Dubai, Iceland, the United States, Belgium and Singapore.
The evening featured remarks from Dean Jenny George, as well as former Melbourne Business School professors Catherine de Fontenay, now Commissioner at the Productivity Commission and Mark Crosby, now the Director of Bachelor of International Business Program at Monash University.
Alumni reflected on the value of staying connected with the School and each other, sharing what the reunion meant to them.
“I think it's great to connect back to the people that supported us and educated us but also to see where the students and alumni have got to,” said Brendan Walsh (EMBA 2005).
Beverly Bollozos (MBA 2005) said "You really do need to keep the engagement up. People always want to come back, so it's been quite a good experience for us."
The reunion also acknowledged the Class of 2005’s generous contributions to a scholarship fund supporting future MBA students, a legacy that continues to shape the next generation of leaders.
Alumni Gatherings in London and Singapore with Professor Tava Olsen
In June, Melbourne Business School alumni came together in London and Singapore for conversation, connection, and community.
In London (pictured, above), 25 alumni gathered for a fireside chat with Professor Tava Olsen. The discussion explored the future of supply chain resilience, touching on geopolitics, AI, and sustainability. The event was generously sponsored by the Chief of Staff Association helmed by Trent Smyth AM (MBA 2002) and co-organised by our London Alumni Chapter Committee members John Oliveri (President and MBA 2013), Remya Ramesh (MBA 2018), and Sasini Wijesiri (MBA 2020).
In Singapore (pictured, above), another 25 alumni met for an informal rooftop gathering at the QT Hotel hosted by Singapore Alumni Chapter President Jon Scheele (MBA 1997). Professor Olsen shared updates from Melbourne Business School and sparked lively conversations on global current events. It was a fantastic evening of insights and reconnection.
Conversations with Jenny George in Perth and New York
In Perth (pictured, below), 14 alumni gathered for a thought-provoking conversation with Dean Jenny George. Jenny shared candid reflections on the lessons she learned from her mistakes as CEO.. Attendees discussed psychosocial trends in society, mental health in the workplace, and challenges in public sector performance management.
We are sincerely grateful to the Western Australia Alumni Chapter, led by President Craig Hook (MBA 1997), and Committee Members Kristy Porter (SEMBA 2021), Vid Kadiresan (EMBA 2004) and Laura Atkinson (MBA 2025), for organising the event. A special thank you to BDO Perth for generously sponsoring and hosting our alumni at their offices.
In New York (pictured, above), a group of Melbourne Business School alumni came together in July for an insightful conversation with Dean George that touched on entrepreneurship, AI in the workplace, and for the future of Melbourne Business School.
We’re grateful to Bart Leslie (MBA 2004) for helping coordinate the meetup and for offering to organise future alumni events in New York. Feel free to reach out to Bart to stay connected with the growing MBS alumni community in the region.
ANZ Bank Chapter inaugural event
The ANZ Alumni Chapter hosted its first event, exploring the power of professional relationships and networks in shaping career success. The session featured a fantastic speaker Lucy Saliba (MBA 2007), Head of Strategy & Planning, Institutional International, and sparked conversations around how connections can open doors, foster resilience, and support long-term growth.
Thank you to our organisers Madhur Gupta (EMBA 2017), My-Linh Tyshing (MBA 2007), and Gaurav Sadarangani (MBA 2012).
If you’re part of the ANZ Bank alumni community, keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities to connect and grow your network. Reach out to Gaurav via the ANZ Bank internal chat to find out more.
Leadership Lessons from the American Civil War: MBS and Harvard Club of Victoria joint pilot event
Melbourne Business School partnered with the Harvard Club of Victoria to host a pilot event, Leadership Lessons from the American Civil War. The evening welcomed around 50 Harvard and Melbourne Business School alumni to the School for a masterclass in leadership and decision-making led by Ted Blamey (pictured, above) (Harvard MBA 1970).
Using the celebrated Harvard Business School case method, Ted guided participants through a dynamic discussion centred on a young colonel facing a crisis on the eve of the Battle of Gettysburg. The session offered rich insights into leadership under pressure and was particularly valuable for early and mid-career professionals.
This successful event marks the beginning of a promising collaboration between Melbourne Business School alumni and the Harvard Club of Victoria, aimed at creating more opportunities for networking and shared learning. We’re grateful to Harvard Club of Victoria President Justin Fung and Melbourne Business School Professor of Economics Sven Feldman, a Harvard alum, for organising this event.
Alumni in the media
Congratulations to Christelle Young (Master of Business Analytics 2017) for winning the AFR Women in Leadership Award in the Retail, Hospitality and Property category in June. Recently featured in the Australian Financial Review for her transformative leadership as Managing Director of T2 Tea, Christelle has championed transparency and data-driven leadership to revitalise the brand. Read more here.
ABC finance reporter Emily Stewart (MBA 2020) has launched her debut book, Sensible Money. Celebrated at Readings Chadstone in July, the event featured a conversation with journalist Madeleine Morris. The book offers practical advice on budgeting, super, property, and investing, empowering readers to take control of their financial future. Learn more about the book here. Read about Emily’s journey at MBS here: Why a finance reporter says an MBA is a good investment.
Jackson Allan (EMBA 2023), Founder of Touchstone Point, was featured in Search Funds News on 16 July for launching his search fund after scaling a plastics business from $10 million to over $100 million. Inspired by the entrepreneurial acquisition model, Jackson pursued his MBA to prepare for full Profit & Loss ownership and now leads with purpose in Australia’s growing search fund space. Read the full article here. You can also read our interview with Jackson here: The third path to becoming a CEO.
Joel Bell (MBA 2024) former Australian Army engineer and Director of BotBuilt, was featured on the Fear & Greed podcast in July. He shares how recycled automotive robots and AI are transforming home construction and tackling the housing crisis. Joel’s journey from military service to tech entrepreneurship highlights the diverse paths MBS alumni take to drive innovation. Listen to the episode here.
Nicholas Nagtzaam (MBA candidate) has launched The Inclusive Shift in August, a podcast exploring workplace inclusion for neurodivergent individuals. He’s seeking gueststo share personal stories, and organisations making strides in inclusive practices. Interested in contributing or know someone who might be? Reach out to Nicholas via the podcast's LinkedIn page, play it on Spotify or check it out on Apple Podcasts.
Dr Sara Baqar (MBA 2023) (pictured above), Director of Endocrinology at Austin Health and Associate Professor at the University of Melbourne, launched her new book, Leadership Pearls in Healthcare, at Melbourne Business School on 30 July. The book explores the human side of leadership in healthcare and was inspired by her MBA experience. “I purposely chose to launch the book at MBS because it wouldn’t have been possible without the learning and inspiration I gained here,” she said. Leadership Pearls in Healthcare is available through university and hospital libraries, or online via Springer.
Simon Abrahams (Senior Managers Program 2009), Creative Director & CEO of Melbourne Fringe Festival, was featured on JOY 94.9’s Saturday Magazine podcast on 24 August. He joined the show to mark the launch of the 2025 Melbourne Fringe program, sharing insights into one of Australia’s largest open-access arts festivals. Simon spoke about the power of risk-taking, audience engagement, and supporting independent artists. Listen to the podcast here.
King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List
Congratulations to six Melbourne Business School alumni recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for their outstanding contributions to business, community, and public life.
Companion of the Order of Australia (AC)
Professor Jennifer Westacott AO (General Management Program 1998). For eminent service to business, to tertiary education administration, to the mental health sector, and to the community.
Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
Greta Bradman (SEMBA 2021). For significant service to the performing arts in a range of roles, and to psychology.
Karen Milward (MURRA Gen 1). For significant service to Indigenous advocacy, and to reconciliation.
Marcus Stewart (MURRA Gen 6). For significant service to Indigenous advocacy.
Robert McGauran (Post-graduate Diploma in Management 1991). For significant service to urban architectural design, planning and development, and to tertiary education.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
David Blackhall (MBA 1974), for service to the automotive industry.
Alumni Appointments
Bruce McCracken (MBA 1997) joins Haranga Resources as Non-Executive Director. With a strong background in banking, mining, and corporate finance, Bruce’s appointment comes as Haranga finalises its acquisition of the Lincoln Gold Project in California.
Jagir Baxi (MBA 2007) has been appointed Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil Nigeria. With extensive global experience in deepwater and LNG operations, Jagir will lead strategic growth and partnerships across the region.
Kim Sajet (MBA 1997) is the new Director of the Milwaukee Art Museum in Wisconsin, United States. A globally respected arts leader, Kim brings deep expertise in audience engagement, fundraising, and cultural leadership following 12 years at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery.
Madhur Gupta (EMBA 2017) has joined Melbourne Business School as an adjunct lecturer in project management. Madhur has 25 years of experience as a software developer and project manager in tech, consulting, and financial services. Most recently, he was Head of Delivery Capability, Australia Retail, at ANZ Bank.
Matthew Warrington (MBA 2000) is now Chief Commercial Officer at aerospace and logistics company B&H Worldwide, bringing over 30 years of logistics and supply chain leadership to the newly created role as the company expands its global reach.
Merrill Gray (MBA 1993) has been appointed Managing Director and CEO of AnteoTech, an ASX-listed advanced material solutions firm based in Queensland. A seasoned scientist, engineer, and entrepreneur, Merrill brings deep expertise in commercialising advanced technologies and leading global ventures in energy, mining, and materials innovation.
Susan Looi (Women in Senior Leadership Program 2024) has joined AIA Australia as Chief Risk Officer. With over 20 years of experience across insurance, reinsurance, superannuation, and banking, including roles at ANZ, Zurich, and Reinsurance Group of America, Susan brings deep expertise in risk and governance to AIA’s executive team.
Mentorship pilot for alumni and students to connect
We’re excited to launch a pilot mentorship program called MentorLink, a new initiative designed to connect alumni and current students across degree programs through meaningful mentoring relationships.
Running from November 2025 to March 2026, the pilot will match up to 20 mentor-mentee pairs, offering a structured way to share career insights, build networks, and foster leadership development. Whether you're an alum looking to give back or a student seeking guidance, MentorLink is a chance to strengthen ties across the MBS community.
Developed by the Student Representative Council (SRC) in partnership with Melbourne Business School, the program aims to promote career development, lifelong learning and networking among students and alumni. Alumni and students are invited to express interest from 30 September to 17 October, with matches announced in early November.
We hope this pilot lays the foundation for a permanent mentoring program that supports our community in their careers.
Big thanks to our working group of students and alumni who designed the pilot and collated feedback from the community: SRC alumni liaison officer and committee chair Max Kamali (MBA candidate), Sherming Wong (MBA candidate), Chaitanya Talari (EMBA 2025), Lenny Chudri (MBA 2014), Vidyuth Kadiresan (EMBA 2024) and Mithran Doraisamy (MBA 1994).
The link to register for the pilot will be posted on our alumni page here.
Do you have news you’d like to share with the alumni community? Contact us at [email protected].
To find out more about studying at Melbourne Business School, visit our Degree Programs and Short Courses pages, or learn about our range of services For Organisations.
