About Us
JourneyTech provides a comprehensive research & technology translation and commercialisation service that takes the guesswork out of some of the most important decisions you have to make. By drawing on the vast experience of leading industry experts in commercialisation, legal services and investment funding, we seek to mitigate the risk to your organisation and maximise the impact and value of your hard work.
We succeed when you succeed!
Meet the Team
Dr Denise Hodge FOUNDER / CEO
Denise started her formal training as a biologist in the UK, graduating with a PhD from the University of York, in the field of molecular biology.
Moving to Australia in 2004, Denise undertook a post-doctoral position at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience at the University of Queensland. With a strong foundation in the biological sciences, Denise then trained as a patent attorney, becoming registered in Australia and New Zealand in 2010. With six years’ experience working in private patent and trade mark attorney firms, Denise has critical expertise in IP strategy and management across all areas of IP, including patents, trade marks, plant breeder’s rights and designs.
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.
Nicole Lucas Consultant
Nicole embarked on her professional journey in the realm of retail operations, spearheading the national and international launches of fast fashion brands for several years. Following a hiatus to focus on family, she pursued academic endeavours in marketing and business, subsequently transitioning into a consulting role. Specialising in business development and marketing, Nicole collaborated with diverse clientele across various industries throughout Australia.
Her career trajectory then led her to assume pivotal roles, first as the Head of Strategic Engagement and later as the Chief Operating Officer for Smart Precinct NQ. In this capacity, she played a vital role in bolstering the Townsville economy by supporting entrepreneurs in establishing high-growth businesses within the region.
Returning to consulting, Nicole broadened her focus to encompass the initiation and growth of new ventures. Notable accomplishments during this period include the formulation of a service model for The Oasis Townsville, a facility dedicated to assisting veterans transitioning out of the Australian Defence Force.
Driven by a fervent passion for entrepreneurship and innovation, Nicole assumed a leadership position in the Ag Innovation Program within James Cook University’s TNQ Drought Hub. This impactful project, commissioned by the federal government, aimed to enhance the sustainability of North Queensland’s farmers through the implementation of cutting-edge technological solutions.
In September, Nicole joined the JourneyTech team, where she currently contributes her expertise by providing market research and business development support to our valued clients.
Melanie Plumb Consultant
Melanie is an experienced operations and governance professional with extensive cross-sectorial expertise. She is a qualified Chartered Company Secretary and Certified Practising Accountant. Melanie initiated her career in Australia and the UK, holding positions in prominent corporations such as the Woolworths Group, Ralph Lauren UK, and National Foods.
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.