Conference
starts in
7th Annual Professional eBay & eCommerce Sellers Internet Conference. May 29th – 31st 2013
We will have an impressive line up of OVER 70 speakers at PeSA 2013. Read below for some more information about them and their expertise.
We'll continue to add to the 2013 list below as speakers are confirmed.
Please note, PeSA reserves the right to make changes to the speaker line-up should it become necessary.
The Hour of Power Panel:
Sally-Anne Newson (AUS)
Country Manager – Australia, ASOS Global Limited
As an eCommerce entrepreneur and manager, Sally-Anne has lent her leadership skills to a range of roles within the retail industry. In her current role as Country Manager for global fashion giant ASOS.com in Australia, she established the first ever in-country team for the retailer. In the 14 years before that, Sally-Anne has worked in management roles for BIG W, eBay and Woolworths.
Gabby Leibovich (AUS)
Co-founder CatchOfTheDay, Scoopon, GroceryRun
Gabby Leibovich began his career in retail selling electrical goods. With a keen marketing eye, he saw the potential of the internet to deliver better value for customers and in early 2006, with his younger brother, founded CatchOfTheDay – an ecommerce business based on a new online retail model offering ‘a deal a day’.
The new retailing model was an immediate success, with the company quickly expanding launching spin off sites offering wine, fashion, groceries and experiences with Australia’s leading group buying website, Scoopon.com.au.
CatchOfTheDay is now Australia’s #1 e-commerce group, with no signs of its phenomenal growth slowing down. The group has over 1.5 million registered members who purchase an item every three seconds, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In 2011 the rapid growth and success of the online retailing group caught the attention on an investment consortium that included James Packer and Tiger Global, who invested $80 million into the business for a minority share.
The group is currently on track to deliver revenues in excess of $250 million for the 2011/12 financial year with plans to expand into further categories in 2012.
Ruslan Kogan (AUS)
Founder and CEO of Kogan.com.au
In this presentation, Australia's most renowned serial entrepreneur Ruslan Kogan will reveal the secrets of his success. He will share insights and explain the opportunities available to entrepreneurs in Australia and around the world, and discuss how the Internet has revolutionised almost every industry on the planet. With 20 businesses under his belt since the age of 10, this is one talk not to be missed.
With revenue's set to top $250m+ this financial year, and a product sold every two seconds, his company is still growing at an unheard of rate, even in its seventh year!
Ruslan has the world in the palm of his hands and soon in space being Australia’s first to sign up as a passenger on Virgin Galactic Space flight.
Ruslan will talk about how and why he started Kogan, the growth of his global Internet empire, and how he has become Australia's wealthiest self-made person under 30. He will reveal how technology and the internet can make the world a better place, how the way we do business is changing, and how you can take advantage of it.
Want to chat to Ruslan Kogan in the lead-up to this exciting talk? Follow him on Twitter: @ruslankogan
Finn Age Haensel (AUS)
Managing Director and Co-founder THEICONIC
Finn holds an MBA from CEU Business School of Central European University (magna cum laude), a Master of Science (German Diploma) in General Management from Freiberg University of Technology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management and Economics from University of Auckland, New Zealand.
He is fluent in German and English and speaks French and Danish on conversational level.
Paul Greenberg (AUS)
CEO National Online Retailers Assocation.
Paul is the CEO of the National Online Retailers Association (NORA), Australia’s newest industry association. NORA and its dynamic board of Australian retailers are committed to the wellbeing of the Australian retail ecosystem. Paul is also the co-founder and non-executive director of the DealsDirect Group, a pioneer online retail brand in Australia. As part of his portfolio career, Paul sits on several advisory boards of technology and not for profit enterprises. He is registered psychologist with a keen interest in organizational psychology. He is a member of the Australian Psychological Society and the Institute of Company Directors. Paul’s interests are surfing and blues guitar. He has two sons and lives in Sydney.
2013 Keynote Presenters:
Grant Arnott (AUS)
Managing Director Click Frenzy
Click Frenzy, the online sales event that changed the landscape of Australian eCommerce in 2012. When launched on October 10th Click Frenzy had nothing; no site, no retailers, no marketing, no consumers; come the 20thof November over 200 retailers presented their deals and nearly 2 million consumers logged on in the 24 hours of the promotion. We all think we know what happened next –hear the inside story of the Click Frenzy experience. What was learned and what is planned for 2013. Click Frenzy is now the annual retail event for the Australian online industry and all online businesses need to leverage from the event.
Grant is also the current editor of Power Retail, Australia's news and information resource for online and multichannel retailers, he is a past editor of Marketing magazine, contributor to countless Australian business publications and a member of the judging panel for the Online Retail Industry Awards.
Andre Eikmeier (AUS)
CEO and co-founder of Vinomofo.
Having been an enthusiastic partaker, Andre’s induction into the wine industry came in 2001 as an out-of-work actor/singer getting a job in the Cellarmasters call centre. Progressed to outbound sales, then a corporate sales job. He started a video and web production company in 2003, servicing the wine industry, before coming together with brother-in-law Justin to create Qwoff, Australia’s first online wine community and review site. Embracing the possibilities that social media offered, via Facebook and then Twitter, they grew the largest online “tribe” of wine lovers, and became vital communicators for the wine industry to a growing younger audience of engaged wine consumers. Together they launched online wine deals site Vinomofo in April 2011, and in their first year grew the business from zero to a run-rate of over $5 million. With their sites firmly set on becoming Australia’s #1 online wine destination, they partnered with fast-growing online deals leaders Catch of the Day in April 2012, and thus began a new chapter of growth. Focusing on building stronger, more human relationships with their customers, engaging them, Vinomofo is on track to play a very important in the online wine game. Watch Vinomofo's killer video
Darren Rowse (AUS)
Founder & Editor, ProBlogger
Darren Rowse is widely regarded as Australia's top blogger and is one of the most followed and influential Australians on Social Media.In 2002 Darren started his first ever blog - not knowing that what would start as a personal hobby site would grow into a full time profession and million dollar business. His blogs are read by over 4.5 millions unique visitors a month. Together they have over 200,000 forum members and 850,000 subscribers. Darren is co-author of 'ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogigng Your Way to a Six- Figure Income' (Wiley 2008 and updated in 2010) and author of the ebook '31 Days to Build a Better Blog'. He’s also the author of the best selling e-book - ‘The Essential Guide to Portraits’ and has published a total of 13 eBooks on his sites
Darren has been involved in publishing over 30 blogs but now is active on four as founder and editor:
- Digital-Photography-School.com - photography tips, camera reviews and photoshop tutorials
- ProBlogger.net - a blog teaching others how to build successful blog
- Twitip.com - teaching individuals and businesses how to use Twitter effectively
- FeelGooder.com – tips for life on a range of topics including health, relationships, work, social good and finance.
Click the link to find details of Darren’s comprehensive 4 hour workshop: How to Blog Like a Pro
Jim "Griff" Griffith (USA)
Sr Manager of Seller Advocacy at eBay (USA)
Griff has been the foremost education expert on eBay since joining the company as its first customer support representative in 1996. He's traveled around America leading eBay University seminars and attending community gatherings, teaching people how to sell on eBay. eBay insider "Griff" tells you everything they need to know about how to become successful online seller.
Griff now works in a combination of roles at eBay including company spokesperson, educator, small B2C seller advocate and general eBay Inc counsel and adviser across many eBay North America business units. He also meets regularly with sellers both at eBay events and at seller meet up groups across the USA, to gather seller insights and concerns, to answer questions and to bring the eBay message and vision to the small eBay entrepreneur.
In addition, Griff is the author of The Official eBay Bible and host of eBay Radio.
Anthony McLean (AUS)
Managing Director, Social Influence Consulting Group.
Anthony McLean is the Managing Director of the Social Influence Consulting Group and with two decades of experience in the human professions Anthony specialises in taking the gems from research and creating real world tools and strategies for businesses to execute immediately.
As an author, speaker, trainer and consultant Anthony works with motivated individuals, groups, companies, Governments and Countries all with one goal in mind – practically using the science of persuasion to get others to say “YES!” to their requests.
Anthony is one of only a select group of consultants across the globe to have been endorsed by Dr Robert B. Cialdini (the godfather of influence) to speak, teach and consult on the practicalities of his research, concepts and strategies.
Combining world leading research with real world business application this funny, fast paced presentation will give you the tools and strategies to immediately influence others (even if it is just to get someone else to shout you a round of drinks at the bar!).
To kick-start your 2013 Influence Strategy here is a short video that has gone viral on the Secrets from the Science of Persuasion; narrated by Dr Robert B Cialdini and Steve Martin (co-authors of YES: 50 Scientifically Proven Ways to be Persuasive).
For more Influence tools and strategies you can follow Anthony on Twitter @Anthony_McLean or via his Blog
Hamish Moline (AUS)
Senior Director, Seller Experience eBay Australia and New Zealand
Hamish Moline is Senior Director Seller Experience at eBay Australia & NZ, responsible for ensuring eBay is the easiest place to sell online for merchants of all sizes. His team is responsible for merchant acquisition, engagement and solutions that improve outcomes for sellers.
eBay has evolved rapidly in the past few years with the top 2000 business sellers growing at over 45% in 2012. With over 7 million unique visitors every month, eBay provides the lowest cost online channel for online only and bricks & mortar retailers.
John Lawson (USA)
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
John Lawson is an Author, Award-winning Business Strategist, an American Express featured Businessman, a Spokesperson for several corporations and a commercial television personality. Mixergy calls John Lawson a “the power seller.” Fox News called him "the King of Ebay", American Express hawks him as their “featured businessman.” Startup Nation says he’s the “savviest” in Social Media and Small Biz Trends named him a “small business Influencer” of the year. He is an award-winning Social Commerce Strategist, a spokesperson for several corporations, a commercial television personality and a sought after Keynote Speaker.
John is also the founder of ColderIce Media, an eCommerce education, training and
consultant agency headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia and Third Power Outlet has executed more than 300,000 online transactions resulting in millions of dollars in sales.
Richard Umbers (AUS)
Executive General Manager at Australia Post
Richard is responsible for the Parcels & Express Services Business Unit, and for the enterprise eCommerce program which is a major change initiative designed to position Australia Post as the natural partner of online shopping in Australia. Richard joined Australia Post in 2010 as Executive General Manager eServices, where he was responsible for developing Australia Post's digital offering and delivering new online initiatives to drive business growth.
Richard has previously held a range of senior and General Management positions in fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) retailing. Prior to joining Australia Post, Richard held positions as General Manager Buying and Marketing, and General Manager Customer Engagement at supermarket retailer Woolworths in Australia. Richard was also Managing Director of supermarket chain Progressive Enterprises Ltd in New Zealand, and Managing Director (North West UK and Republic of Ireland) for supermarket discounter Aldi.
His strong international retailing experience gives him a great insight into supply chain management and he has a strong track record of developing new revenue and profit streams based on innovation and technology.
Richard has an honours degree in Geology and Geography from Exeter University (UK), and a Masters in Finance from the University of Leicester (UK). He also holds a non-executive board appointment at the Australian Direct Marketing Association (ADMA).
Jason Aplin (USA)
Founder & CEO of Tildeworks & MC for PeSA 2013
Jason began coding in the fourth grade with Cobalt and Basic in the storage cabinet of his private elementary school. Jason has 20 years experience in the industry with the majority of his time spent with strategists, agency’s and brands on how to leverage technology to create engagement, collaboration, brand advocacy and communities. In his career, Jason is grateful to have worked with brands such as American Express, AOL, Coca Cola, Edelman, E.W. Scripps, The Indianapolis Colts, Mashable, Microsoft, Ritz Camera and Image, The Sierra Club, Sony and others. With a passion to help others and a love for travel, Jason has been a keynote speaker in Europe and the U.S. for multiple conferences and events.
Online Marketing & Case Study Presenter/s:
Peter Macaulay (AUS)
Managing Director kitchenwaredirect.com.au
A family history in bricks and mortar retail and a lifelong interest in IT made the perfect match for Peter Macaulay in developing an online retail business.
A true belief in delivering old-fashioned customer service together with a strong focus on online marketing techniques has seen the RealStores group grow rapidly to become Australia's largest pure play kitchenware retailers.
The flagship store KitchenwareDirect.com.au has a world class selection of brands and customer service to match. With a staff of 50, the Perth-based business is looking to expand with a distribution centre on the east coast in 2013.
Wai Hong Fong (China)
Co-founder and advisor OZHut
Immediately after completing his BA at the University of Melbourne, Wai Hong Fong co-founded and was managing director at OZHut for 5 years, a multi-niche online retailer. Wai Hong's experience as an entrepreneur draws its depth from the different cycles that the business has undergone, from the initial days of dabbling with eBay to building multiple full fledged award-winning eCommerce stores. This also includes everything from writing code, web development and design, SEO and even running the packing tables at the warehouse.
He's passionate about building businesses that are profitable but purposeful and believe that the means by which we build them should be marked by integrity, humility and generosity. Wai Hong is currently based in Shanghai working on StoreHub, his latest venture, whose first offering is a cloud based Retail System(iPad POS, Inventory Management, Reporting) that brings enterprise level features, polished with an amazing UI to SME Retailers at a fraction of the cost of big bulky systems.
Aaron Cardwell (AUS)
Digital Marketing Manager for Quiksilver
Aaron, nicknamed Azza by his work mates, has worked for youth market fashion brands all his professional life, you could say he's never had a proper job... He currently lives in Torquay and is Digital Marketing Manager for Quiksilver. Although you couldn't pick it, he must doing something right, Quiksilver was awarded Best Online Brand Channel 2012 by the Australian Surf Retailers Federation. Not bad for a bloke who travels the world live streaming surf events.
John Debrincat (AUS)
Founder & CEO eCorner
John Debrincat has over 40 years of experience in business and the Information and Communication Technology Industry in the Asia Pacific. After resigning from his role as Senior Vice President for Compware (Nasdaq:CRWP) in 2003 he founded and is CEO of eCorner, an Australian specialist eCommerce solutions provider. With a strong partner network including Netregistry, iiNet and Commonwealth Bank; and over 1,500 customers including Getprice.com.au, brandsExclusive, Aegon Direct Marketing Services, Engineers Australia and Weight Watchers, eCorner is a key eCommerce provider in Australia and NZ.
John a board member and Chairman of the ACS Foundation a position held since 2005. This is a charity and non-profit organisation that has raised over $35 million dollars in scholarship and research funds since 2001. The focus of the foundation is to provide funds for scholarships for students to enter ICT related tertiary education and embark on an ICT career. The foundation is also a registered research organisation by the Australian government. The ACS Foundation is the premier organisation in its field in Australia with relationships with 32 universities, over 400 donor organisations and managing over 1200 scholarships.
John is involved with many industry related bodies and is a Fellow of the Australian Computer Society and Honorary Life Governor at the School of Information Technology, Sydney University. John’s company is a member of the Australian Information Industry Association, the Internet Industry Association and the ACS Professional Partners Program.
John is a Director of IEWF.org and RNC Alliance Pacific. Both organisations are focused on environmental restoration and management providing grants through community groups and local government.
He is also part owner of Gartelmann Hunter Valley Estate a successful Australian winery.
Todd Alexander (AUS)
Director of Onsite Search at eBay.com.au
Todd Alexander has been working in online and retail for the past twenty years. During his career, Todd has helped thousands of businesses plan for eCommerce success and has written six internet books, most of them bestsellers. His latest book The New eBay (released in June) is full-colour, totally comprehensive, user friendly and the only official guide to using the new eBay for beginners and businesses alike. Todd has appeared at every PeSA / Internet Conference to date.
Raaid Hossain (USA)
Head of Social Strategy at Social Annex.
Raaid works with some of the largest online retailers (featured in the Internet Retailer 500 Guide) on their Social Commerce strategies.
Previously he was a Marketing Executive at a privately owned record label in which he led the raising of 2M USD in financing and worked with top entertainers within the music industry, but before even securing deals with Snoop Dogg- he was the Social Media Manager at MetroparkUSA, a once public 100M presence within the US market.
Alita Harvey-Rodriguez (AUS)
Email and Digital Marketing specialist Experian – CheetahMail
Alita has been dedicated to working in email marketing for over 8 years and has established herself as a well rounded email marketing professional. During her career she has had the pleasure of working with some of Australia's most established brands working across diverse business verticals including retail, finance, ecommerce, publishing and sporting associations.
Tim Davies (AUS)
AFAIM, CSA (Cert)
Manager Seller Education & Engagement - eBay Australia & New Zealand
Recently appointed eBay Manager of Seller Education & Engagement, Tim has spent the last 3 years as an eBay Business Development Manager, guiding many eBay sellers to success through strategic marketing and best practice. Launching and running eBay Seller Academy and Seller Recharge around Australia in 2010, and eBay Academy on Twitter in 2011, Tim has assisted hundreds of businesses at various stages of development grasp and rise to the challenges of ecommerce in the eBay marketplace. With loads of experience in small business start-ups, financial and strategic management, web communications, marketing and corporate governance, Tim holds a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration, is an Associate Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management, Member of Chartered Secretaries Australia and a member of the Law Council.
Jim Stewart (AUS)
Principal, Stew Art Media
Jim was the senior consultant behind some of Australia's first corporate websites including the RACV and the 1995 TV Week Logie Awards. In 1996 he was the project lead on Australia's first commercial VoIP project and consulted on a number of other leading edge projects.
In 1998 he formed Stew Art Media to focus on the emerging area of rich media on the Internet. He subsequently consulted to national broadcasters in Pakistan, Malaysia, Fiji, Sri Lanka and Brunei on streaming media.
From 1998 to 2001 he produced and presented a daily video technology news show called IOB CoffeeBreak which was syndicated to Yahoo!, AOL (US), Real Networks (US), Microsoft Windows Media Guide (Aust.), Optus@Home (Broadband), Seek and ZD Net (Aust). It had over 50,000 viewers per month from 23 different countries.
From 1997 to 2002 Jim could be heard regularly on ABC Radio (Gael Jennings and Peter Clarke) as the Internet consultant and he has also appeared on Network 10's The Panel, Channel 9's A Current Affair and he has written for Australian Personal Computer Magazine.
Stew Art Media is now an Australian leader in Search Engine Optimisation having optimised over 100 sites in a variety of sectors. Jim has given over 50 public speaking presentations on SEO & new media development.
Melissa Noon (AUS)
Co-Founder, Stencil
Melissa has spent the past 7 years working in digital media. 4 of those at Fairfax Digital and the past 3 as an Account Manager at Facebook Sydney. Melissa was the first Account Manager to join the team in Sydney and has worked across a large number of media agencies and direct clients, with a passion for driving results.
After leaving Facebook, Melissa co-founded Stencil – a social media consulting agency dedicated to helping business succeed in every aspect of social marketing.
Carl Hartmann (AUS)
Managing Director of Temando
Carl is one of Australia’s leading eCommerce business minds, with connections reaching into the top 200 eCommerce business models in Australia. Carl is founder and CEO of Temando and a leading advisor of business solutions in Australia. Carl is a natural leader, commercially astute and highly qualified. He has background in consumer-goods retail (Dick Smith Electronics, JB HiFi) before working in a variety of key business development and commercialisation roles (News Corporation, Fairfax Digital).
With Temando, Hartmann aims to use aggregation technology to overcome the issue of sending goods in eCommerce environments. He has extensive expertise in eCommerce, fulfilment & logistics, digital strategy and online dynamics.
Neville Samuels (AUS)
Co-Founder and Director: Retailsplash, DungeonCrawl, ToolHQ and IndulgeHQ
In 2009, Neville and his partner Dov Herdan bought Dungeon Crawl, a relatively small business, but Dov and Neville saw the value in the business particularly in the customer base and set about transforming a small business into Australia’s largest independent online seller of video games and accessories.
Having set up a robust platform for systems, processes, customer support and fulfillment systems, and following on from the success of Dungeon Crawl, they set up ToolHQ - a power tool business which has made a significant impact into the category.
Retailsplash has a combined eBay feedback of over 200,000 and has recently launched a third eBay store, IndulgeHQ
Neville qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Price Waterhouse in South Africa before moving to Australia. He has over 18 years commercial Australian experience.
Matt Brossard (CAN)
Customer Experience Manager for Terapeak.
Matt joined the company in 2007, taking lead of international support. His years of experience as a certified provider for eBay, combined with interactions with merchants on a wide range of subjects has provided Matt with a perspective into the needs and challenges faced by merchants in the e-commerce space. He currently represents the voice of the customer in new feature development projects and contributes to training and education materials for Terapeak's research technologies.
Emma Hunt (AUS)
Head of Small Business at PayPal
Emma currently heads up the Small Business segment at PayPal – part of eBay Inc. and is hugely passionate about the role small business plays in the broader economy. She fell into the internet industry 12 years while working at Westpac, and has loved being part of this innovative and dynamic sector ever since. She has worked in Banking and Telecommunications, focusing on how to better help small business run their businesses more efficiently through the opportunities made available via the internet. A career highlight was being a founding member of an eCommerce start-up business in London which helped some of the largest retailers in the UK develop their eCommerce strategies and platforms. Emma has been living in Sydney for the last four years, but prior to that was working in London for eight years. She is very happy to be able to avoid the northern hemisphere winters!
Mark Brixton (AUS)
Country Manager – SLI Systems
As Country Manager for SLI Systems, Mark Brixton works with some of Australia’s most prominent companies helping them to improve the customer experience and performance of their websites. His innate ability to evaluate and understand business needs, along with his knowledge of online solutions and trends, make him a respected authority within the wider industry.
Having been in the online space since 2004, Mark has previously worked with Sensis, one of Australia’s largest providers of online media; as an Affiliate Manager for Kiwi Gaming; and, most recently, as a Sales Manager for APN.
He regularly writes for and provides expert commentary to various Australian industry publications, including Retailbiz, Marketing Magazine, Smarter Business Ideas, ZDNet and Power Retail. He also presents at and regularly attends an array of industry events, including the Internet Retailer Conference and Expo, Online Retailer E-Commerce Conference and Expo and the Online Retailer Roadshow.
Bhauvik Tripathi (AUS)
Managing Director Shivam Technologies
Bhauvik Tripathi is the founder and managing director of Shivam Technologies. Shivam Technologies is a marketing leader in providing intelligent technology solutions to companies. This ranges from search and internet marketing to website and software development. Shivam Technologies currently ranks on the first page of Google for Pay Per Click (PPC) Management Company, internet marketing, Software Development Company, and website development.
Shivam Technologies is a wholly Australia owned operation with offices in Australia, India and Singapore.
Prior to founding Shivam Technologies Tripathi was the Enterprise Architect for the largest Australian owned insurance broker, OAMPS, and worked as the technology consultant who brought to life on-line capabilities for a series of leading universities and government establishments.
He has a Bachelor’s of Engineering in Telecommunications and a Master of Engineering in Information Technology. He is also a Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Master Practitioner.
Chris Morley (AUS)
General Manager Online Market Experts
Chris Morley has been helping Australian businesses improve their online strategies, revenue and process for over 5 years; working with retailers and brands of all sizes to increase their online footprint and market share in a meaningful and manageable way. Chris has worked with Australia Post, Deals Direct, OO.com.au, Cadbury and others on various online projects; always bringing his passion and enthusiasm for eCommerce and digital marketing to each and every role.
Chris holds the position of General Manager with Online Market Experts and also acts as senior consultant for the blueprint for success document that the business provides for numerous businesses. Prior to joining Online Market Experts Chris has been involved with his family owned and operated retail presence, several eBay businesses and SaaS provider ChannelAdvisor helping to give Chris a broad and diverse view of the retail world. His views and opinions can be read on the Online Market Experts Blog.
Tim Mackinnon (AUS)
Head of Merchant Solutions at eBay.com.au
Tim leads Merchant Solutions at eBay. His mission is to make it easier for businesses to grow on eBay by delivering listing, shipping and other solutions such as enabling cross-border trade and Magento. Tim is passionate about enabling Australian small businesses. Prior to joining eBay, he worked for Intuit (behind QuickBooks) which is also a champion of small businesses.
Chris Power (AUS)
Product manager Dungeon Crawl, Retail Splash & ToolHQ
Chris has been Dungeon Crawl & Retail Splash's product manager for 2 years, heading up buying and listing practices for Dungeon Crawl, and has recently begun to tackle ToolHQ. Working closely with Co-founders and Directors Dov Herdan and Neville Samuels, his impact has grown rapidly with the growth of the business. Chris also has a keen interest and focus on optimising processes and systems, using combinations of technology development and outsourcing to reduce the need for extra staff and resources as the business grows.
Sarah Costin (AUS)
Marketing Manager at Toll Consumer Delivery.
Sarah aims to help other small business owners turn their delivery service into a competitive advantageby meeting the growing expectations of their customers in the rapidly changing world of consumer delivery. Sarah was the co-founder of Off Your Trolley, an online discount grocery retailer that she and her business partner sold in 2012. In that role, Sarah discovered first hand just how important logistics is to the success of a small business, and how it can be the difference between making a profit or not.
Richard Greenwood (AUS)
Senior Digital Strategist at Dejan SEO
Richard is a professional and passionate digital marketing expert with extensive experience in successfully improving search visibility, conversions, user experience and social media engagement for a wide range of companies from start ups to major brands including Flight Centre, AFL, Virgin Australia and Groupon.
Nicolette Maury (AUS)
Director of Buyer Experience at ebay.com.au
Nicolette joined eBay in 2006 to lead top seller development and launch eBay Australia’s first Top Seller Event. She has worked in a variety of roles across the business including on-boarding and growing business sellers, launching and managing eBay categories, improving the Trust and Shipping experiences of eBay buyers and sellers, and most recently leading the end-to-end Buyer Experience.
CJ Hudson (AUS)
Co Founder Stencil
CJ has a decade of experience in digital marketing solutions, and has spent the last 5 years in Australia, commencing as Sponsorships Manager for AFL and NRL.com.
Most recently CJ was Facebook's first person on the Australia landing team, and spent the last 4 years working with Bluechip to SMB clients on their Social Strategies.
He is now co founder of Stencil, a Social Consultancy that is born out of driving simplicity in social, and a passion for the tools that apply to the marketing funnel.
He is also highly determined sportsman; so much so, he continues to learn to surf in the face of constant and inevitable defeat.
Ned Coten (AUS)
Managing Director Acorn Brand Design
Acorn Brand Design is a brand strategy and communications company located in Prahran, Victoria.
A former professional athlete, Ned has overseen the growth of this business from inception to its current position as advisor to some of Australia’s major multinational consumer brands, including Heinz, Wrigley, Novartis and Golden Circle.
A focus on brand growth and profitability, combined with a natural fascination for strategy and marketing, provides the basis for Ned’s approach to business. Prior to Acorn, Ned was the CEO of a number of professional sporting teams and has also operated his own businesses in a variety of fields.
Neds presentation will focus on the importance of branding in the digital world and how the principles that apply to the worlds major brands should be adapted for use in the online selling environment. It will include clarity on the definition of a brand and how to identify critical brand elements, in addition to discussing examples of good and poor branding online.
Michael Schaper (AUS)
Deputy Chairman ACCC
Michael Schaper was appointed to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in July 2008 for a period of five years as Deputy Chair with knowledge and experience of small business issues.
Dr Schaper brings extensive experience in the area of small business through his previous roles as ACT Small Business Commissioner, Dean of Murdoch University Business School in Western Australia and head of the School of Business at Bond University in Queensland.
A previous president of the Small Enterprise Association of Australia and New Zealand, he has been a member of the board of directors of the International Council for Small Business and has held the foundation professorial chair in Entrepreneurship and Small Business at the University of Newcastle. Prior to this, he was employed as a senior lecturer at Curtin University, responsible for the university’s entrepreneurship degree programs.
Between 2001 and 2003 Dr Schaper held several posts as visiting Professor at the Ecole de Management Lyon, France, and the University of St Gallen in Switzerland. In Australia he has served as an Adjunct Professor at both Curtin University and the University of Canberra.
In addition to his extensive academic career, Dr Schaper has worked as a professional small business advisor and as the owner of a number of new business start-ups.
In 2009 he was recipient of the “National Small Business Champion Award” by the Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia.
The author or co-author of ten business management books, he has been a regular columnist in a number of national magazines, newspapers and journals on business issues. He has also worked as a policy advisor to government at both the state and federal level.
Dr Schaper is a member of the ACCC’s enforcement and adjudication committees.
He holds a PhD and a Master of Commerce degree from Curtin University, as well as a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Australia.
Josh Rowe (AUS)
Digital Entrepreneur & eCommerce Market Development Manager for Australia Post
Josh has been helping businesses make money using the Internet for over 20 years. Josh is a digital entrepreneur with a passion for starting up new online businesses, creating inspiring customer offers and delivering commercial benefits.Josh is a key executive, consultant and digital expert within Australia Post, driving digital change through the development of Australia Post’s online strategy, including making the case for, creating and leading a new digital channel team, delivering a major web site rebuild and delivering new mobile/tablet capability.
Josh is a director of key Internet industry bodies. He has driven the introduction of a new competitive industry model for the Australian domain name industry and the enactment of anti-spam legislation in Australia.
Follow Josh on Twitter
Ian Tilson (AUS)
Head of Account Management Australia/Asia Pacific ChannelAdvisor
As the Head of Account Management for ChannelAdvisor Australia/Asia Pacific, Ian manages a team that is responsible for supporting and assisting online growth for ChannelAdvisor's enterprise accounts including some of Australia’s largest e-commerce players such as Surfstitch, Harvey Norman and Deals Direct. Ian joined ChannelAdvisor Australia in 2010, supporting the company’s growth in the Australian and Asia Pacific markets. Ian focuses on feed management for paid search and comparison shopping along with marketplaces including eBay, Trade Me and Amazon. Originally from Ireland, Ian has previously worked in the European market with eBay as a Process Specialist and key account manager and has a Bachelor of Science in Software Development from Waterford Institute of Technology.
Whitney Horsey-Sherin (AUS)
Senior Manager Buyer Experience at eBay.com.au
Whitney works in Buyer Experience at eBay on buyer strategy and insights, striving to improve the eBay shopper experience and understanding customer needs to continue to make eBay the preferred shopping destination for Australians. Whitney is leading the retail standards initiative, including the launch of Top Rated Plus and Image Quality.
Brad Lindenberg (AUS)
CEO and Founder of BuyReply.
BuyReply is a unique and category defining eCommerce platform that enables transactional advertising. Merchants can sell anything from any medium without apps via a one-click checkout. In April BuyReply received investment from a consortium led by Adrian MacKenzie, Square Peg Ventures and Valar Ventures. Valar represents the international venture interests of Peter Thiel who co-founded PayPal and was the first outside investor in Facebook. Brad will open your mind to new and easy ways of generating revenue from customers that are already interacting with your exiting marketing campaigns. BuyReply is Lindenberg's second company having previously founded Lind Golf, which was acquired by OO.com.au in 2010.
Tom Collins (AUS)
Sales Manager eBay Commerce Network
Tom works closely with leading retailers in Australia to help deliver reach and drive conversion via the eBay Commerce Network. Tom has several years of online performance marketing experience within Australia and the UK market having previously held roles with ChannelAdvisor & Criteo.
George Zhu (AUS)
SEO Strategist, DEJAN SEO
Geroge’s SEO career began with experimenting in new technologies in 2004 - mainly around host and network services (studying CCNA). When he realised he could make a few dollars from AdSense, He began studying SEO, which eventually led him to a position in 2006 at Melbourne IT as an Account Manager looking after 80+ clients at any given moment. Over time he found himself looking after the SEO team there and provided high level recommendations to some of our largest customers including Melbourne IT's own websites. Now happily with the team at Dejan working as a strategist.
Panel/Stream Presenters will include:
Gordon Nugent (Aus)
eCommerce Manager for Harvey Norman, Domayne and Joyce Mayne websites.
With over 15 years in retail management including managing and owning several Harvey Norman franchises, Gordon accepted the role of General Manager Retail at Ingram Micro, Australia's largest IT distribution company.
With a background in sales, retail and logistics, Gordon returned to Harvey Norman to launch and manage the online sites for Harvey Norman, Domayne and Joyce Mayne.
He is responsible for the daily operations of all sites including strategy, merchandising, product management, SEO, promotions, logistics and the customer service team.
Gordon frequently speaks at and attends digital marketing and eCommerce events both locally and overseas.
Gordon is an active member of the Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) and an Associate Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management (AIM).
Gordon has also held advisory positions for iMedia, PESA and Internet Retailer and as a judge for AIMIA awards.
Sheridyn Fisher (AUS)
Managing Director Sheridyn Swimwear
Sheridyn Fisher is an Australian success story that is rapidly gaining more recognition around the globe. Sheridyn is a professional model with over 10 year experience in Photographic, Editorial, Runway, Beauty, TV, Film & Acting,
Processing beauty and brains as well, Sheridyn is a true entrepreneur. Sheridyn has used her creative talents, drive and courage to build her company and brand from the ground up based on her unique drive, passion and vision.
Along with an impressive list of expertise, Sheridyn has had an overwhelming success of her very own swimwear line Sheridyn Swim. Sheridyn launched the brand last year & has even hand painted some of the prints including the infamous "White Tiger" Swimsuit (which she personally donated proceeds to the World Wildlife Fund to help preserve the Tiger). Sheridyn Fisher Swimwear is now in demand worldwide and she is a leading eBay Seller that work’s actively in her online business.
Brad Russell (AUS)
e-commerce & SEO Manager Kitchenware Direct.
Brad Russell has been Kitchenware Direct's e-commerce and SEO manager since early 2009. Brad's position has grown with the significant growth of the company. Today, he manages 12 websites including the flagship kitchenware site, Avago, Pressure Cooker Centre and Telescopes Direct.
His role includes on-site optimisation, link building, business development and overseeing large-scale SEO projects. Brad's passion for the industry is unwavering; he is an active member of the SEOmoz community and regularly writes on his personal blog.
To connect with Brad prior to the conference, follow him on Google+ or Twitter. He is happy to talk all things SEO.
Amanda Suefong (AUS)
Director of eCommerce Teleflora
Amanda has spent the last 15 years in the technology and Internet industry. During the early days of the commercial internet Amanda spent 6 years managing technology projects to reduce operating costs and optimise business process efficiencies. More recently she has been dedicated to developing B2B & B2C eCommerce business models, in both, pure online and multichannel environments. Her career includes 5 years working in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Francisco, and since returning to Sydney, she has been an advocate for the growth of Australia's eCommerce industry.
Amanda currently oversees the consumer direct ecommerce channel for Teleflora (operating as Petals in Australia). Petals and Teleflora USA have over 18,000 member florists throughout North America, Australia and New Zealand, with an additional 20,000 affiliated florists worldwide.
Amanda couldn't be more passionate about the digital transformation we are in the middle of, and she ultimately wants to see Australian businesses thrive with the global opportunities available to them as the digital economy matures.
Stuart Duff (AUS)
General Manager of Multichannel for Bevilles Jewellers
Bevilles Jewellers is a jewellery and watch retailer with a proud history dating back to 1934. Stuarts role is to focus on identifying new channels and improve and integrate existing channels to enable Bevilles to maximise their sales opportunities, improve convenience for their customers and build brand loyalty. In the second half of 2012 Bevilles launched a new Magento Enterprise web-site and the focus is now on testing and improving the web-site to ensure that Bevilles is maximizing their conversion opportunity.
Prior to joining Bevilles Stuart was the General Manager of Online and Commercial for JB Hi-Fi between 2007-2010, overseeing JB Hi-Fi’s successful push into the e-commerce arena. Before that Stuart was founder and Managing Director of Rocket Group, where he assisted retailers who wanted to set up direct to consumer e-commerce structures.
Libby Cattalini (AUS)
Social Media Manger CrazySales.com.au
Coming from a background of owning a profitable business in Europe, where being social is the norm, providing marketing for brands such as Audi Centre Melbourne and Mushroom Marketing to creating the Social Media strategy for one of Australia's top 5 online department stores - CrazySales.com.au Libby has become a well respected advisor for companies seeking to grow engagement, brand awareness, and measurable ROI via their social channels. With intricate knowledge of social media and online marketing she is able to devise successful social campaigns with strategies that have a wide reaching positive effect on all aspects of the business.
Gil Levy (USA)
Founder - eCommerce Partners
Gil Levy is the founder of ECommerce Partners. Prior to ECommerce Partners, Gil served as the Chief Operating Officer of Web Business Services (WBS.com), a Netscape consulting firm, and the Chief Technology Officer at Worldwide Corporate Network where he organized the first ever online trade conference broadcasted live from Bloomberg Studio.
When Gil was 21, he moved to New York and joined the web development company WBS, riding the first wave of the Internet boom. He started out in sales and later moved to build innovative programs with such prominent clients as Netscape, Marsh and McLennan, and the Gartner Group. Many of his clients became household names including Jumbo, Quick Silver, AirTickets.com, Black Enterprise and iVillage.
In 1997, as web producer with the Worldwide Corporate Network, Gil managed the first online conference ever produced on the subject of gene therapy, with live webcasts of proceedings from Bloomberg’s studios. The project was featured on CNN, prompting so much international attention that registrants signed up at the rate of 800 per minute, reaching a total of 60,000 users.
That same year Gil started ECommerce Partners, offering custom-made web development solutions to meet clients’ needs. Among the first big clients were the New York City Council, US Department of Commerce, US Department of Justice, Jaegermeister, Grey Goose Vodka, Time Warner Cable, Direct TV, Perry Ellis and more.Among others he developed a unique site navigation methodology that got ECommerce Partners the limelight award for Business to Consumer category by Ad-Tech. Gil is well known throughout the industry as an outstanding and innovative Ecommerce strategist significantly reducing the cost per acquisition for his clients.
In 2002 Gil and Asi Erenberg co-created the Interactive Division called 7 Designers, helping clients achieve successful lead-generation and sales. Building successful eCommerce businesses became the mission of ECommerce Partners and the passion of Gil and Asi.
Dov Herdan (AUS)
Co-Founder and Director: Retailsplash, Dungeon Crawl and ToolHQ
Retailsplash Dungeon Crawl and ToolHQ
Dov will talk about his experiences in growing a small eBay seller and turning it into a multi-channel online retailer. He will share some of the challenges he faced and notable early successes.
Dov has been involved in the technology industry for over 20 years. Prior to landing on Australian shores in 2002, Dov had founded and listed an IT company and had run a successful technology based Venture Capital Fund.
He founded Retailsplash in 2009 and bought the eBay seller Dungeon Crawl together with his partner Neville Samuels. Dungeon Crawl was a relatively small business, but Dov and Neville saw the value in the business particularly in the customer base and set about transforming the small business into one of the largest online seller of video games and accessories.
Having set up a robust platform for systems, processes, customer support and fulfilment systems, and following on from the success of Dungeon Crawl, he set up ToolHQ - a power tool business which has made a significant impact into the category.
Retailsplash have a combined eBay feedback of over 160,000, and have plans to launch a third vertical in the online fashion space soon….
Dov holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering, a Master’s degree in Computer Science and an MBA.
Chris Dobson (AUS)
Managing Director of Exalt Group
Exalt Group is a specialist provider of customised fully integrated Logistics solutions spanning 3rd Party Warehousing, Freight & Distribution, Kitting, Assembly and associated services. Exalt specialises in services to online sellers, eBay sellers, new and start-up businesses and is recognised the leading provider in these areas.
Mark Gray (AUS)
Managing Director, ChannelAdvisor Australia/Asia Pacific- Channel Advisor
As Managing Director, Mark is responsible for ChannelAdvisor's Australian/Asia Pacific business unit which comprises of sales, marketing and client service operations for over 250 large retailers. Mark joined ChannelAdvisor in August 2005 in London, UK and managed some of ChannelAdvisor’s largest customers including HP, Vodafone and B&Q. Mark focuses on helping retailers and manufacturers with the software and services needed to successfully sell their products via online sales channels.
Prior to joining ChannelAdvisor, Mark was a Lieutenant in the U.S. Coast Guard and also ran his own eBay business as a rated PowerSeller. Mark received a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree from St. Mary’s College of California in 2005 and graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 2004.
Andrew Main (UK)
Co-founder, Frooition
Frooition are a leading eBay Certified Provider specializing in eBay design. With a combined customer feedback of over 15 million and over 4 million live listings they are one of the largest eBay design companies in the world. Frootion have proudly designed for clients such as Calvin Klein, Karen Millen, Dell and many more well known brands.
Andrew Main is one of the founding members of Frooition. He has over 8 years experience dealing with eBay customers and the eBay platform. Andrew was instrumental in setting up and running eBay training courses in the UK whilst running a successful eBay business selling return retail electronics. Andrew is now responsible for consulting with customers to understand their business models and suggest the best options for design and implementation. Andrew also heads up partnership opportunities to help grow Frooition’s product portfolio as well as enabling other business’s to offer Frooition’s world leading eBay design services.
Jethro Marks (AUS)
Co-founder & Director of The Nile & Mercury Retail
The Nile launched in 2003 and has since become one of the largest book and media sellers on eBay Australia and eBay.com (US). Each eBay store is now home to millions of unique listings. The Nile has been built on a decade of experience in international online retail and ships thousands of deliveries to over 60 countries each month.
The company is currently experiencing an exciting growth phase. Category expansion is seeing The Nile transform from a bookstore into a multi-category department store. Jethro will discuss the challenges of entering new verticals in Australia and globally.
Another focus for Jethro is Mercury Retail, which is an outsourced eCommerce solutions provider. This service provides a fully managed solution for retailers, manufacturers, wholesaler and brand owners wanting to have a cutting edge online retail offering. Having facilitated iconic brands such as Witchery, Mimco, King Gee and Ksubi, the company is set to launch a range of new services for eBay sellers wanting to grow their business.
Melanie Cramond (AUS)
Director – Tragic Beautiful
Melanie is a director of Tragic Beautiful, one of the first online alternative retail stores in Australia and now one of the largest.Melanie has over ten years experience in online retailing, e-commerce management and eBay selling. She uses social media extensively to build the brand and the business and has established an online community on her business Facebook page with over 50,000 fans.
Follow Tragic Beautiful on Face Book
Dan Woodall (AUS)
Head of Product and Customer Experience at PayPal
Dan has held variety of senior product and marketing roles in a range of industries, including telco and financial services. He is a versatile executive with proven results across product innovation, online and offline marketing, technology delivery and P&L management. When he’s not working, he rides his bike(s) everywhere, and play his trombone in a Big Band!
Ben Zyl (AUS)
Head of Sales & Distribution – PayPal Here
Since joining PayPal 8 months ago, Ben has developed and established the distribution of the PayPal Here device and applications in Australia. Prior to PayPal, Ben spearheaded the retail and sales distribution at Vodafone & Amaysim – supporting his extensive experience in technology roles.
Ben is passionate about bringing this innovative, mobile-based, transaction technology to Australian businesses enabling commerce anywhere, anytime.
Michael Jenkins (AUS)
Director Shout! Web Strategy
Michael is the founder and director of Shout!, a Melbourne-based boutique digital strategy agency. In a few short years, Shout has grown into one of Australia’s leading strategic SEO agencies, bringing transparency, reliability and plain-speaking to an industry famous for jargon and false claims.
Michael is a highly regarded thought leader and digital innovator in the fields of online strategy, corporate SEO, Google retargeting, email and affiliate marketing, and online reputation management.
As the founder of weight-loss success story Australian Lifestyle and Fitness (150,000 unique visits per month; #1 ranking for search terms including ‘diets’ and ‘weight loss programs’) Michael quickly learned the enormous potential of SEO and online marketing.
He sold his equity stake in AL Fitness to concentrate on Shout!, sharing his years of practical and proven experience with clients as diverse as Bevilles (increased ecommerce sales of 150% in 2011), Minter Ellison, Porsche, Singapore Post, Mitre 10, Keep Cup, Film Victoria, Elk Accessories, EO Financial and Leonard Joel.
To learn more about Michael, Shout! and the power of digital marketing, call him anytime on 0405 491 149 or visit the Shout! website.
“We have seen a 500 hit per day increase in traffic and a 150% increase in online sales since engaging Shout. I would highly recommend Shout for online marketing and strategy."
Stuart Duff, General Manager – Multichannel, Bevilles Jewellers
Tsahi Lazan (AUS)
Structured Data Product Manager at eBay.com.au
Tsahi joined eBay in 2007 and currently leads Structured Data Product Management in the eBay.com.au Product Management team, including Category, Classification and Catalogues. Tsahi is very passionate about Structured Data and firmly believes in the advantages Structured Data has for both Sellers and Buyers.
Yvonne Adele (AUS)
Yvonne Adele is a pioneer in technology and making it accessible to the non-geek. In the mid 90s she was Ms Megabyte, advising people on national radio and tv on how to get the most from their PC’s – this in turn led to a best selling book She was quick to embrace Social Media and create Ideas While You Sleep.com - An overnight brainstorming service run over Twitter, where she has almost 17,000 followers. Overnight, customers get 100 ideas from around the world to solve any business challenge.
Yvonne heads her own community management agency, managing social media platforms for brands and celebrities whilst continuing to educate business owners and operators as co-author of online training program The Reach Kit: tapping into Social Media to increase sales and grow your business.
Abbas Tharkar (UK)
Founder & Managing Director, dZine-Hub
Apart from being a connoisseur in eBay store designing, dZine-Hub also has an exclusive team specializing only in Magento Designing & Consulting Services. dZine-Hub has helped 900+ businesses so far to launch their e-commerce websites on the Magento platform and is currently running on hot wheels with more.
Prior to becoming exclusive with Magento services, the company has also delivered e-commerce projects based on Xcart, Cubecart, Open cart, Zen cart, OS Commerce, CS Cart, Presta shop, Pro stores and Wordpress, upon customer request.
Kok Peet Leong (Sing)
SingPost SVP e-Commerce Warehousing and Regional Managing Director Singapore, and Pacific Region, Quantium Solutions
Mr Kok Peet Leong joined SingPost in Apr 2013 to oversee the business operations in Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as drive the SingPost Asia Pacific e-Commerce Fulfillment warehouse business setup. Peet has extensive experience in the Supply Chain and Warehousing business. His last held position was VP, South East Asia of DHL Supply Chain. In this role, he oversaw around 3 million square foot of warehousing space across Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. Prior to this, he spent almost 9 years in Accenture’s High Tech and Electronics Supply Chain Management practice.
David Brown (AUS)
Founder and Managing Director, Toro Commerce
Founder and Managing Director, David Brown, has owned and operated several successful enterprises including a $250M online retailing business that he launched in 2002. David's vision for TORO was born out of his experience deploying enterprise grade solutions to operate his own online retailing operations that spanned several geographic markets, brands, currencies and logistics centres. David is driven by a desire to simplify the time, complexity and cost associated with deploying enterprise grade commerce solutions. David's vision for online retailing has been the subject of a cover story in BRW magazine and he was nominated for the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2011.
Terri Mouhtouris (AUS)
Regional Sales Manager for Interactive Freight Systems (IFS),
Terri has been in the role for over 5 years. Terri has 25 years in the transport and logistics industry and understands how a warehouse operates and the many supply chain challenges, that are faced day to day. Terri’s role at IFS, sees her engage with a varied, client base and brings together her Transport and IT knowledge, to deliver great customer outcomes.
Hugh McFadden (AUS)
Sales Director, Ship2Anywhere
Prior to joining Ship2Anywhere in 2012, Hugh enjoyed senior commercial roles in Australia, United States and Asia. Hugh has extensive domestic and international carrier experience with DHL Express and Toll Priority. Hugh is passionate about small Australian businesses competing globally through e-Commerce.
John Menagh (AUS)
APAC Sales Manager Australia/Asia Pacific, ChannelAdvisor
As ChannelAdvisor’s Sales Manager for the Australia/Asia Pacific Region, John Menagh manages the team of e-commerce sales executives responsible ChannelAdvisor’s mid market segment. Together they identify those e-Retailers with great potential and team them with ChannelAdvisor’s services to reach and exceed their expectations.
Australian born, John has a degree in Biomedical Sciences at Swinburne University of Technology. He also has extensive experience working in sales, e-commerce and software development in the APAC region. John has previously been the CEO of Disprax Pty and the Director of a Consulting Firm.
Ryan Murtagh (AUS)
Director Neto E-commerce
Ryan Murtagh is one of the founding directors of Neto E-commerce Solutions, an Australian website, shopping cart & e-commerce solutions provider. Ryan is an online retail specialist with over 10 years experience operating and developing online retail websites and businesses. An entrepreneur at heart, Ryan opened his first online store in 2001, since then he has developed extensive knowledge in the areas of e-commerce software, accounting and ERP solutions, logistics and online marketing. He works closely with Neto’s customers on a daily basis to help them develop a winning formula for their businesses.
Martin Ewart (AUS)
PeSA Auctioneer
Having worked at the highest level of many corporate real estate groups, Martin Ewart is now a freelance real estate practitioner and is in high demand as an auctioneer and marketing commentator.
Martin has been an auctioneer for over seven years and is renowned for adding ‘personality’ to his delivery, which combined with his professional approach, is always well received. Marty is our auctioneer for the PeSA Gala Charity Dinner.
Nathan Huppatz (AUS)
Co-Founder of Directshop Pty Ltd
Nathan is co founder of Directshop, an online retail and consulting business located in Melbourne Australia. Having transacted over 200,000 orders in the last five years on eBay, websites and other channels he is a true online veteran with broad experience in eCommerce strategy, multi channel online retailing, web development and project management, online fraud and online marketing.
His business Directshop offers an automated shipping solution called www.readytoship.com.au , born from Directshop's own needs to streamline the shipping process, and now focuses heavily on Magento and eBay development.
Directshop is an Australian Magento Partner specialising in building Magento Commerce websites for Community, Professional and Enterprise editions. With a focus on integrations and custom development, Directshop is a leader in Magento to eBay integrations, dealing with SME clients turning over $20k to $5mil+ pa, and Nathan and his team's expertise is critical to the success of his business.
Nathan is also a board member of PeSA Australia, and regular speaker at PeSA functions and events.
Shaun O’Brien (AUS)
President of PeSA Australia
Successful eBay & Online Entrepreneur
Shaun O’Brien draws from over 20 years of retail experience working for some of the largest and most respected retail chains within Australia and New Zealand, including over 5 years as a retail manager.
8 Years ago Shaun was no different from the vast majority of new eBay sellers. He was a Manager at the local Bunnings store and sold a few items on eBay to bolster his income, starting with $100 in his pocket.
In 2002, while still working full time, Shaun started his first online trading business selling HDMI Cables, Selby Acoustics. After two years of late nights and early morning answering emails, listing products and many trips to the post office, Selby Acoustics had grown to the point where it needed Shaun full time.
Fast forward 9 years and today Shaun is a well respected and successful eBay entrepreneur with:
-Over 250,000 Feedback at 100% Positive
-Two Retail Stores
-A 24,000 square foot Warehouse in Hallam
-20 fulltime staff
-3 eBay profiles and 3 websites
-And over 500,000 transactions
Shaun is also the President of PeSA Australia. PeSA is a trade group consisting of the top selling businesses on eBay based in the US.
Justin Bohlmann (AUS)
Founder of eCommerce Results specialising in Magento ecommerce web development and eCommerce strategy.
Back in 2004 he caught the ecommerce bug and decided making a living in the online space was safer then jumping out of military planes with heavy packs and rifles. 7 years on he says “I know I made the right decision”.
In 2005 Justin worked for eBay as a Seller Development Consultant helping high volume sellers optimise listings, improve branding, drive more traffic, minimise costs and increase overall sales. From there Justin moved onto Marketworks as the Australian Sales and Accounts Manager where his major responsibilities were new business acquisition and to scale existing business through education and workflow optimisation.
As well as helping his clients achieve eCommerce greatness Justin is an accomplished eBay Powerseller and continues to learn and work at the coalface on www.fitnessandstrength.com.au selling gym equipment .
Phil Leahy (AUS)
Founder and Managing Director PeSA Internet Conference & Online Market Experts
Phil Leahy a former high volume seller on eBay Australia has been a member of PeSA in the USA since 2004. Phil was invited by the USA founder Joe Cortese to assist eBay sellers in Australia by providing annual event for sellers to share ideas and network. PeSA Australia is also a voice for the eBay community and was notably the lead organisation in halting eBay's PayPal only policy in 2008.
After a long music industry career at Sony Entertainment & Kiss FM, Phil launched and built one of the largest eBay businesses over many years, retailing CDs & DVDs - reaching over 350,000 transactions. He was awarded Australia's #1 eBay seller in 2007 & 2008 for the most sales in all categories.
After selling the business in 2008, Phil is now Managing Director of Online Market Experts and also spends months working on PeSA Internet Conference every year, ensuring its value to the online seller community continues to grow.
Phil also consults to business on SEO, PPC management, eBay, Google Strategy & Website construction.
Visit the Phil Leahy eCommerce Blog 
Core Values
PeSA is devoted to promoting the highest levels of professionalism, fairness, honesty, and integrity with respect to online trade, while fostering an atmosphere of participation, creativity, responsibility, and philanthropy among its attendees.
We dislike "get rich quick" & "theorists." We are attracted to facts and best practices. PeSA's charter is to assist the Australian e-commerce industry with vital information and provide the opportunity to network with industry peers.
Bronze Exhibitors
Thanking our PeSA Internet Conference Bronze Sponsors
Thanking our PeSA Internet Conference Partners
