In 2010, Denise joined QUTbluebox Pty Ltd as a Commercialisation Manager, responsible for ‘cradle to grave’ commercialisation of technologies across the University in all areas of research. This role also included the management of ‘Proof of Concept’ projects and funds with a focus on delivering commercialisation outcomes.

In 2014, Denise became Director, Commercial Operations at QUTBluebox, responsible for commercialisation at QUT from licensing to startup creation, industry partnerships, IP strategy, protection and management, and early seed funding, managing a team of Commercialisation Managers. In 2017, Denise extended her experience in commercialisation to the United Kingdom, where she joined The University of Edinburgh. Denise led the Business Development team (across biology, chemistry and physics), establishing multiple industry partnerships, negotiating benefit sharing arrangements between parties and driving research translation efforts.

With a key understanding of international models, Denise moved to Melbourne and joined Agriculture Victoria Services Pty Ltd (AVS) as their Chief Operating Officer, leading and delivering on all commercial, research translation activities for Agriculture Victoria and managing the commercial team.

After three and a half years at AVS, Denise joined James Cook University in Townsville to become their Director, JCU Connect, leading the University’s Research Office, Commercialisation and Innovation capabilities across all areas of the University. Denise contributed to the success of the Critical Minerals Trailblazer and in finalising a key commercial opportunity with CSIRO relating to an algae product.

In over 30 years of legal practice, Peter has been involved in hundreds of negotiations across a wide range of commercial and contentious matters. He has worked with multinational IT corporations, drug development and medical device companies, and major government departments and agencies.

Peter has over 20 years’ experience as a company founder, financier and company director and sits on the boards of a number of public and private companies including Benitec Biopharma Ltd, Wound Innovations Limited, Australian Stroke Alliance Limited, and Defence CRC TAS Limited.

Before establishing her own business in 2022, Melanie dedicated 15 years to the Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information (CRCSI) and its successor entity, FrontierSI. In her role as Chief Operating Officer & Company Secretary, she played a pivotal role in successfully leading the legal, operations, and governance transition from CRCSI to FrontierSI. This included orchestrating time-bound execution of governance documents involving over 100 stakeholders from government, academia, and industry. Melanie also successfully negotiated with the Commonwealth, facilitating the transfer of several million dollars in funding to FrontierSI.

Melanie possesses substantial expertise in various operational areas, including complex contract negotiations, grant funding management, HR, risk management frameworks, and all aspects of the governance process. She thrives on applying her skills and practical nature to drive results for her valued clients. Melanie has a particular interest in collaborating with SME startups and organisations with a for-purpose focus.