25eight Industry Mentors

Chief Mentor, 25eight

Founder of PauseFest

CEO, Australian Defence Alliance

Founder, Light & Glo

With a career spanning manufacturing, service, and med-tech, Suji is a founder and entrepreneur who thrives on innovation, agility, and strategic growth. From launching product-based businesses to evolving service models, she has built deep expertise in product development, marketing, supply chain, and operational scaling. She has mentored startups through La Trobe, Monash, and the State Library of Victoria, and brings a multicultural lens and board experience with MBMC to every interaction—helping emerging leaders navigate challenges, stand out in saturated markets, and build resilient, future-ready businesses.

CEO, Purpose Procurement

Michelle is a highly experienced supply chain leader with over 17 years in the field, including more than a decade in defence at the world’s largest aerospace company. Known for her award-winning work in social procurement and small business development—featured in Forbes—she brings deep expertise in both direct and indirect procurement, compliance, and systems leadership. Michelle is celebrated for driving innovation, building strategic partnerships across sectors, and delivering impactful, globally recognised outcomes.

Commercial Director, Integra Systems

With over 20 years as a product design and manufacturing business owner—plus a decade in the corporate sector—Erika brings deep expertise in strategic growth, business transformation, finance, HR, and marketing. She helps businesses thrive by applying Industry 4.0 and circular economy principles to boost efficiency and long-term success. Her background spans B2B marketing, corporate governance, and cross-sector collaboration, giving her a unique ability to connect strategy with execution. She is passionate about supporting leaders through change and helping them build resilient, well-connected, future-ready businesses.

CEO, Infostatus

Brad is a data and AI specialist with over 20 years of experience leading enterprise projects in business intelligence, analytics, and information management. As a startup founder and AI/ML expert, he helps organisations harness emerging technologies—like generative AI, agent-based systems, and LLMs—to drive innovation and competitive advantage. With deep expertise in MLOps, Responsible AI, and scalable data frameworks, Brad bridges strategy and tech to deliver agile, future-ready solutions that support smarter, ethical decision-making.

Managing Director, Ronson Gear

With 20 years of experience in the Defence industry and a background as an SME in the Space and Manufacturing sectors, including direct supply to Lockheed Martin Space, Gavin offers valuable insights and guidance to business owners entering these specialised fields. His practical knowledge and industry connections make him a strong mentor for those navigating the complexities of Defence and Space.

Executive Director, Mack Valves

As a certified CPA with a strong finance background, Karin has successfully led the turnaround of a manufacturing business while thriving in a traditionally male-dominated industry. She brings a unique blend of financial expertise, strategic insight, and resilience—offering real-world experience to help others drive growth and navigate challenges with confidence.

Company Director, Whole Health Osteopathy

With over a decade in allied health, Jessica is the founder of Whole Health Osteo & Rehab, a multidisciplinary clinic known for ethical, evidence-based care. She has grown the business from a solo practice into a thriving, values-led team and brings strengths in service innovation, systems design, sustainable growth, and leadership. With experience mentoring practitioners into independent practice, she’s passionate about helping others build profitable, purpose-driven businesses that truly serve their community.

Founding Director, ClearPath Defence

With 20 years in aerospace, Emily is a seasoned technical leader known for driving complex, innovative programs—particularly in autonomous systems, simulation, and analytics. She thrives in early concept development, where possibility meets uncertainty, and brings a structured approach to managing technical and enterprise risk. With experience across multinational portfolios and board roles in both corporate and NFP sectors, she bridges technical depth with enterprise strategy, making her a valuable mentor for leaders navigating innovation and governance in the Defence industry.

Founder and Owner, Nick's Negozio

Nick started his business from the ground up at just 19 and has successfully grown it since 2019 — from a home-based operation to a full-scale factory with wholesale, delivery, and direct-to-public services. Now also running a retail food shop on-site, he brings hands-on experience in scaling operations, building a brand, and navigating the challenges of small business growth.