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Hon. Martin Ferguson AM
Chairman at Australia-Korea Business CouncilHon Martin Ferguson AM has a long history of public service and work in economic and social policy. From 1984 until 1990 Martin served as the General Secretary of the Miscellaneous Workers Union and from 1990 until 1996 as President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU). As a senior trade union official, from 1984 until 1996 he sat on the ACTU National Executive, participating directly in shaping and implementing many of the economic reforms of the Hawke and Keating Governments.
In March 1996, Martin was elected as a Member of the Federal Parliament in the seat of Batman, in Melbourne, which he held until retiring in 2013. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in June 1996.
During the Howard Government, Martin served in a range of economic shadow portfolios, including Employment and Training; Immigration and Multicultural Affairs; Regional Development, Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Services and Population; Urban and Regional Development, Transport and Infrastructure; Primary Industries, Resources, Forestry and Tourism; and Transport, Roads and Tourism.
Upon the Rudd Government assuming office in December 2007, Martin was appointed the Minister for Resources and Energy and the Minister for Tourism, and acted as the Chair of the Standing Council on Resources and Energy and the Ministerial Council for Tourism. He held the Resources, Energy and Tourism portfolios until March 2013, when he resigned from the Cabinet.
Martin is a member of an Advisory Board to the Australian Oil and Gas industry association, AEP and is the Strategic Director of Natural Resources to SGH Energy. He also chairs the CO2CRC, is a consultant to the Board of Accommodation Australia and the Minerals Council. He served until recently as the Chair of Clare Valley Wine and Grape Association and was an Independent Director of the Stars Foundation.
Martin was a member of the University of Western Australia’s Industry Advisory Board on Resources and Energy from 2013 until it was abolished in late 2018. From 2014-16 he was an Independent Director of the BG Group in London prior to its takeover by Shell and he chaired the The University College of London’s, Adelaide Campus Advisory Board until it merged with the University of S.A. in late 2017. Martin has an honours degree in economics from Sydney University.
In-Hwa Chang
Chairman at Korea-Australia Business Council; CEO of POSCO GroupMr. Chang is a seasoned veteran in the steel industry and became the CEO of Posco Group in March 2024. He studied shipbuilding engineering at Seoul National University and received a doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
In 1988, Mr. Chang joined Posco Group as a researcher at the Research Institute of Industrial Science & Technology (RIST) under the company-sponsored advanced research college, Pohang University of Science and Technology.
Mr. Chang has held several key positions at the group, including director of the RIST Steel Structure Research Institute, head of Posco’s new business department and steel marketing solutions department, chief technology investment officer, director of the Technical Research Laboratories, and head of the steel production division.
In 2018, Mr. Chang became head of Posco’s steel division. He became an adviser in 2021.
Academic Career
1988 Ph.D., Ocean Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, U.S.A.
1981 M.S. (and B.S. ’79), Naval Architecture & Ocean Engineering, Seoul National University (SNU),
Seoul, Korea
Professional Career
2024. 03. CEO, POSCO Holdings
2021. 03. Advisor to POSCO
2018. 03. President, POSCO Head, Steel Business; Member of the Board
2017. 02. Senior Executive Vice President, POSCO; Member of the Board; Head, Steel Production Division
2016. 02. Senior Executive Vice President, POSCO; Head, Technology Investment Division; Head, Technical Research Laboratories
2015. 02. Executive Vice President, POSCO; Head, Steel Solution Marketing Office;
2014. 03. Executive Vice President, POSCO; Head, New Business Office
2011. 02. Senior Vice President, POSCO; Head, New Growth Business Office
1988. 06. Joined POSCO Group at Research Institute of Industrial Science & Technology (RIST)
Hon Roger Cook MLA
Premier of Western AustraliaHon Roger Cook MLA is the Premier of Western Australia. With oversight of the key portfolios of State and Industry Development, Jobs and Trade; Public Sector Management; and Federal-State Relations, Roger has been a member of the Legislative Assembly(link is external) since 2008, representing the seat of Kwinana.
Prior to entering politics Roger studied Arts and Public Administration at Murdoch University before completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations and a Master of Business Administration at Curtin University. He was active in campus politics and established the National Union of Students as its first National President.
After completing his studies Roger worked for a number of Federal and State Members of Parliament including Jim McGinty, Stephen Smith and Senator Chris Evans in policy and electorate officer roles.
Roger is passionate about Aboriginal issues and served as the Chief Executive Officer of a number of Aboriginal Land Councils, along with a communications role assisting industry and government to reach agreement with Aboriginal Native Title groups. He was previously the National President of Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation.
Roger is a strong advocate for health and fitness, competing in regular triathlons, marathons and rides for muscular dystrophy along with the walk for diabetes. He is an avid supporter of the Western Force and Fremantle Dockers.
Roger Cook was born and raised in Western Australia. He lives with his wife Carly in Wellard, and has two adult children.
H.E. Jeff Robinson
Ambassador at Australian Embassy in Republic of KoreaMr. Robinson is a highly experienced senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He has worked extensively across a wide range of North Asia and international security, strategic policy, and other matters. He has served overseas in Japan and the United States and is now in the Republic of Korea for the third time.
His inaugural overseas assignment was in Seoul from 1988-1992, followed by a tenure as Deputy Head of Mission from 2007-2011. His experience in Korea dates back to his university years in the early 1980s.
Senator the Hon Don Farrell
Minister for Trade and Tourism Special Minister of StateDon Farrell was born in Murray Bridge, South Australia, and is a fourth generation South Australian.
While studying law at the University of Adelaide, he worked as a shop assistant and later joined the South Australian Shop Distributive and Allied Employees' Association, beginning a 32-year career working for the rights of retail and fast-food workers. Don led the union at the state and national level, overseeing the introduction of the 38-hour week and universal superannuation for retail workers.
He was elected to the Senate in 2008, and served as Minister for Science and Research, Minister for Sport, Minister Assisting on Tourism, and Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water during his six-year term in the Rudd and Gillard governments.
Following his first term in the Senate, Don spent time tending his small vineyard in South Australia's Clare Valley wine region and knows firsthand the daily challenges faced by local growers and primary producers.
He again nominated for the Senate and was re-elected in 2016, serving as the Shadow Special Minister of State, Shadow Minister for Sport and Tourism, Shadow Minister Assisting the Leader of the Opposition and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate.
Following the election of the Albanese Government in 2022, Senator Farrell was appointed Minister for Trade and Tourism, Special Minister of State and Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate.
As a proud South Australian, Senator Farrell is honoured to represent the people of his home state in Federal Parliament.
Senator Farrell lives in Adelaide with his wife Nimfa and enjoys spending time with his three daughters, and doting on his grandchildren.
In-Kyo Cheong
Minister for Trade at Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE)Mr. In-Kyo Cheong, named as South Korea's trade minister in January 2024, is a scholar specialising in economic security with experiences of participating in key free trade agreement negotiations.
Mr. Cheong served as a researcher at the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy and also as a professor at Inha University, focusing on trade policies and economic security.
He participated in South Korea's major FTA negotiations, including those with Chile and the United States.
Mr. Cheong also has experience serving as an adviser for various government bodies, including the finance, industry and foreign ministries.
He took the post of the president of the Korean Security Agency of Trade and Industry in August last year.
He earned his doctor's degree in economics at Michigan State University.
His appointment does not require a parliamentary confirmation. While he is granted the title of minister, the position holds the rank of a vice minister.
Hon Madeleine King MP
Minister for Resources and Minister for Northern AustraliaMadeleine grew up locally at her parents’ home in Shoalwater. Her father worked for 30 years at BP Kwinana, and her mother and grandmother ran the popular drapery and women’s fashion store – The Family Traders – in Railway Terrace, Rockingham.
After graduating from Safety Bay Senior High School, Madeleine moved to Perth to attend university, where her passion for the importance of education began. Madeleine has continued to work to promote the value of higher education and training to the individual and to the wider community.
Through her leadership of the Perth USAsia Centre, she has helped to bring a unique Western Australian perspective to the international discussion on Australia’s role in the emerging Indo-Pacific region.
Madeleine believes in the importance of creating opportunities for people to improve their lives and the lives of their families and communities. We can build these opportunities through job security, education, vocational training, and support for small business.
The people of Brand are rightly concerned about local jobs and the increasing cost of living in our area, including the cost of child care and health services. These costs on wellbeing have placed extraordinary pressure on young families and workers of all ages.
Madeleine is building on the work of previous MPs for Brand Gary Gray, Kim Beazley and Wendy Fatin to increase local opportunities and enable young people to access further education, and vocational and trades training. She is a passionate advocate for the communities of Brand and works to protect the pensions of the elderly and the vulnerable, and to maintain the integrity of our world-leading Medicare health system.
Chang-Beom Kim
Vice-Chairman & CEO of Federation of Korean Industries (FKI)Vice-Chairman & CEO Kim Chang-beom is a former career diplomat with 38 years’ service. He is currently serving as Vice Chairman at the Federation of Korean Industries since September, 2023. He has served as a global advisor for Hyundai Motor Group before joining in FKI.
He has served as Korean Ambassador to Indonesia from January, 2018 through July 2020. He also worked in Brussels as Korean Ambassador to the European Union and Belgium from 2012 through 2015. Amb. KIM has special ties and experiences with EU affairs, ASEAN and Indonesia, in particular.
During his career, he made significant contributions to the promotion of Korea’s partnership with the EU and ASEAN through summit meeting preparations and substantial progresses in trade, investment, and people–to–people exchanges. He has worked together with the Indonesian Government in reaching a final conclusion of Indonesia – Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IK CEPA) in November 2019.
As a career foreign service officer, he has served five overseas posts (US, Japan, Pakistan, Indonesia, EU/Belgium) and worked at various positions within the Korean Government ever since he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in December 1981. He has worked for President LEE Myung-bak as chief of presidential protocol at the office of the President from 2008 till 2012.
He earned a Master’s degree from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Washington, DC, USA (1986) and is a distinguished graduate of Seoul National University (B.A., 1982).
Born in 1960, in Seoul, Korea, he has a wife and two sons.
Mark Abbotsford
Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer at Woodside EnergyMark was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Woodside Energy in August 2024. In this role Mark leads Woodside’s Commercial and Marketing and Trading teams and is responsible for developing the company’s growth opportunities through mergers and acquisitions, new energy business development, exploration and new ventures.
He has been a member of the company’s Executive Committee since 2021. Following the completion of Woodside’s merger with BHP Petroleum in 2022, Mark was appointed Executive Vice President of Marketing and Trading. Mark has more than 20 years of commercial, marketing, trading, finance, and Mergers and Acquisitions experience across roles based in Australia, Singapore, Japan and United Kingdom.
Mark has held several senior positions at Woodside, including Executive Adviser to the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, and Vice President and Group Financial Controller. Prior experience includes roles at the Western Australian Department of Treasury and BHP Iron Ore.
Mark holds a Master of Philosophy in Finance from the University of Cambridge, and a Bachelor of Economics (1.Hons) and MBA from the University of Western Australia. Mark is also a graduate from the Advanced Management Programme at Harvard Business School.
Mark is a Board member of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WA), GLX Digital and Asia Natural Gas & Energy Association (ANGEA). He is also a director of numerous Woodside subsidiaries.
Dr. Brett Biddington AM
Founder and Principal of Biddington Research Pty Ltd (BRPL)In 2010, Brett Biddington established a Canberra-based consultancy specialising in space and cyber security matters from policy and national capacity development perspectives. Prior to that he was a member of the Cisco Systems global space team and before that served in the Royal Australian Air Force. Following senior intelligence and security roles, he moved into capability development and sponsored a $2bn portfolio of projects in the C4ISREW and space domains.
Brett is the Interim CEO of a Cooperative Research Centre bid called AI for LIFE which aims to investigate the impact of AI technologies on the Australian education system, especially classroom impacts and student learning outcomes.
He advises the international LifeSprings return sample mission to Mars, the Plants for Space Centre of Excellence and the Victorian Space Science Education Centre (VSSEC).
Brett is an Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Science at the University of New South Wales.
In June 2012 he was admitted as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to the Australian space sector.
Eugene Cha
Managing Director and CEO of CJ Foods OceaniaEugene Cha - Navarro is the managing director and head of Oceania at CJ CheilJedang, a food & biotech arm of South Korean conglomerate CJ Group operating in diverse industries including food manufacturing, foodservice, bioscience, entertainment & media, retail, and logistics. Under her leadership, she secured the company's first local manufacturing site in the Southern Hemisphere for its iconic dumpling ranges. She has also expanded local production across more food categories and successfully introduced Korean food and culture to major retailers throughout the region.
Before joining CJ, she built a distinguished marketing career with Nestlé, working with prominent brands such as KitKat and Maggi. She held various global and local leadership positions, including Global Strategy Director for the foodservice business in HQ and Marketing Director for KitKat in Japan and Korea.
She holds a Ph.D. from Keio University in Tokyo, Japan, and an MBA from IMD (International Institute for Management Development) business school in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Ji Ryang Chung
Founder and CEO of Tilda CorpAs the Founder and CEO of Tilda Corp., Ji Ryang spearheads a team committed to leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to drive unparalleled efficiency in business operations. Tilda’s strategic solutions are meticulously designed to minimize risks, reduce costs, and significantly lessen the environmental impact of traditional business practices.
With a robust background in computational neuroscience and over a decade of experience in AI R&D at leading tech firms including Samsung Mobile, Ji Ryang brings a unique perspective to the integration of AI technologies in diverse industries, from manufacturing to financial services.
Under his leadership, Tilda Corp. has emerged as a pioneer in developing AI-driven strategies that enhance decision-making and operational agility. Tilda’s commitment is to transform complex data into actionable insights, propelling businesses towards sustainable growth and profitability.
Ji Ryang’s academic work, culminating in a PhD in Computer Science from Texas A&M University, underscores his dedication to advancing the field of AI. He has authored several influential papers on the evolution of neural networks and machine learning applications, contributing to foundational advancements in AI technologies.
Ji Ryang is eager to collaborate with global partners and industry leaders to explore innovative applications of AI across sectors. His vision at Tilda Corp. is not only to innovate but to revolutionize how businesses interact with technology, creating smarter, more efficient, and more responsive enterprises.
Darryl Cuzzubbo
Managing Director and CEO of Arafura Rare EarthsDarryl Cuzzubbo is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Arafura Rare Earths.
Darryl has more than 30 years’ of experience in the global resources industry, including as President of Olympic Dam, one of BHP’s most strategic assets in Australia, and Group Executive and President of Auspac Asia at Orica, one of the world’s leading mining and infrastructure solutions provider. Throughout his extensive career he has been focused on delivering complex technical projects to commercial production and organisation-wide transformational change programs.
Darryl has a degree in Mechanical Engineering, two Masters degrees and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Jodie Draper
Managing Director of HifraserJodie Draper is the Managing Director of the Australian owned HIFraser Group of companies including HIFraser, Aquip Systems, PAC, Eastern Automation and Tidal Fluid Services. These companies provide a diverse range of complex engineering solutions and highly specialised products and services to several national critical industries including Defence, Mining, Oil & Gas, Transport, Construction and Hydrogen.
Over 20+ years Jodie has experienced all business aspects of the HIFraser Group operation and was appointed its leader in 2022. She brings a wealth of knowledge in company culture, growth strategy and nurturing global commercial relationships.
Jenny Kang
Project Manager at Australia-Korea Business CouncilJenny joined the Australia-Korea Business Council as a Project Manager, after dedicating over ten years of her career to working at KOTRA Melbourne (Korea Trade and Investment Promotion Agency).
During her tenure at KOTRA, Jenny managed research and marketing activities, with a particular focus on facilitating business collaborations between Korean SMEs and Australian companies. Her responsibilities included writing articles and reports for corporate members, policymakers, and the general public, covering various aspects of the Australia-Korea bilateral relationship. These pieces encompassed trends, statistics, market barriers and regulations identification, as well as assessments of opportunities and challenges across diverse industries.
Her work has earned recognition as the Best Article of the Year and Best Researcher of the Year for two consecutive years, awarded by KOTRA’s headquarters in Seoul. She delved into in-depth analyses of key sectors such as food and agriculture, energy, and critical minerals to promote opportunities for both Australia and Korea.
Jenny holds a Bachelor’s degree in Korean Language and Media Communication from Sookmyung Women’s University in Seoul, Korea. Additionally, she pursued postgraduate studies and earned a Master’s degree in International Business from Monash University.
Gordon Flake
CEO of Perth USAsia CentreProfessor Gordon Flake is the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Perth USAsia Centre at The University of Western Australia.
Professor Flake is one of the world’s leading authorities on strategic developments in the Indo-Pacific. Having spent twenty-five years in the US foreign policy community focused on the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia and now nine years in Australia’s Indian Ocean capital he is an expert on key strategic relationships in the broader Indo-Pacific. He has authored many scholarly and policy studies on security developments in the region, and their policy implications for the US and its regional partners.
Since establishing the Centre in 2014, Professor Flake has worked to build stronger international relationships between Australia, the US and the broader Indo-Pacific. He has led the growth of several major international conferences in Australia and the region; and established a range of high-level diplomatic and policy dialogues on issues of shared concern for the Indo-Pacific.
Professor Flake is a sought-after media commentator, particularly on strategic developments in the Indo-Pacific and change order issues to do with US politics and foreign policy. His work has appeared in many leading international outlets, including the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, as well as across the Australian media landscape.
Professor Flake holds a number of strategic leadership roles. He is a Governor of the American Chamber of Commerce in Australia (AmCham) and serves on the board of the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. He is a member of the Australian “Friends of Vietnam” group and a member of the international advisory board of the David M. Kennedy Centre at Brigham Young University.
Prior to joining the Centre, he was the Executive Director of the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation, an Associate Director of the Program on Conflict Resolution at The Atlantic Council of the United States, and Director for Research and Academic Affairs at the Korea Economic Institute of America.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Korean) and Master of Arts (International and Area Studies) from Brigham Young University. He speaks both fluent Korean and Laotian.
Goran Galic
Partner at A&O ShearmanGoran is Partner of Allen Overy Shearman Sterling in Perth. He is an energy, resources and projects specialist and brings market-leading experience advising across the ‘pit to port’ spectrum of the energy and mining sectors, including on project acquisitions, joint ventures, developments and operations. Goran has significant experience advising Korean project sponsors and investors in Australia and regionally. He is involved in amongst the largest and most complex mining and energy projects in Australia and globally.
Goran brings leading market experience and expertise across the broader energy transition space. He has led on several market-first hydrogen and CCS mandates in Australia, and supported Korean investment and offtake arrangements in the critical mineral space.
Liz Griffin
Chief Executive Officer at Australia-Korea Business CouncilLiz has been leading the Australia-Korea Business Council as CEO since December 2015, leveraging her extensive background with Asialink Business and KPMG to spearhead initiatives that enhance bilateral trade and investment between Australia and Korea. Her command of the Korean language is both deep and nuanced, evidenced by her completion of a Diploma of Languages (Korean) at Monash University, alongside her studies at Seoul National University. Liz's academic journey also took her to Yonsei University and Sogang University, further enriching her understanding of Korean culture and business practices.
In 2017, Liz's efforts in promoting economic collaboration between Korea and Australia were formally recognised by the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Sydney with an appreciation plaque. Her dedication to leadership and excellence in governance was underscored in 2021 upon graduating from the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course.
Liz is passionate about unveiling the dynamic opportunities that exist between Australia and Korea, particularly in sectors critical to the future, such as energy transition, critical minerals, food and agriculture, and financial services. She is dedicated to educating Australian audiences about the strategic importance of our third-largest trading market, driven by a mission to ensure Australian businesses thrive in Korea, and likewise, Korean businesses find success in Australia. This commitment not only showcases her dedication to strengthening bilateral ties but also highlights her role as a pivotal advocate for cross-cultural business success.
Holly Havers
Senior Strategic Communications Director of GS E&C AustraliaHolly Havers, Strategic Communications Director for GS E&C Australia, has almost 25 years of experience in engaging stakeholders and communities and helping companies, governments and projects communicate strategically.
Before joining GS E&C Australia's Melbourne head office team in her national role, she served as Director of Communications and Engagement for Victoria's $11.1b North East Link Tunnels project with the design and construction consortium of which GS E&C is part.
Bell (Jongwoong) Kim
Founder and CEO of i-ESGBell (Jongwoong) Kim is the founder and CEO of i-ESG, a corporate venture under POSCO Group, a Fortune 500 company. Upon witnessing the importance and urgency of immediate action for ESG, Bell has started his position at i-ESG.
i-ESG offers a cutting-edge, cloud-based ESG management platform, leveraging proprietary AI and Big Data technologies to facilitate precise and actionable ESG data collection and management, helping companies meet increasingly stringent regulatory requirements. Recognized as a certified Social Venture by the Korean government and a proud member of the UN Global Compact, i-ESG is at the forefront of advancing ESG practices globally.
With over 15 years of expertise in strategic planning, business development, and investments, Bell has a strong background in managing and developing sustainable projects across 35 countries. His comprehensive experience includes early-stage development, project structuring, business negotiations, financing arrangements, and implementation.
Bell holds a Master’s degree from MIT Sloan School of Business and is an active member of the MIT Sustainability Community and KAIST ESG Executive leaders club. He also serves as a Climate Ambassador at Climate Interactive (US) and possesses advanced certifications, including Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Public-Private Partnership Professional (CP3P-F).
In addition, he serves as an adjunct professor at Korea University and is renowned for his extensive engagements delivering ESG-related insights to public and private organizations.
Jandi Kim
Director of Export-Import Bank of KoreaJandi Kim is the Director in the Supply Chain Resilience Fund Operation Department at the Export-Import Bank of Korea.
With 20 years of experience in the field of ECA finance, she has worked extensively in areas such as structured finance and conventional corporate financing. She also has a keen interest in development finance and has represented Economic Development Cooperation Fund in the Korean Delegation to the OECD, focusing on the official development cooperation sector.
Jandi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Seoul National University and a Master’s degree in Development Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London.
Jun Hyung Kim
Senior Executive Vice President at POSCO HoldingsMr. Jun Hyung Kim is the Chief Battery Materials Business Officer of POSCO Holdings.
Since joining POSCO in 1986, Mr. Kim has had an extensive career in battery materials industry, including several CEO and executive positions within POSCO Group.
As Chief Battery Materials Business Officer, he is responsible for overseeing the strategic development and implementation of innovative battery materials solutions, driving the company’s growth in this critical market segment.
Prior to his current role, Jun Hyung was the CEO and President of Posco FutureM from January 2023 to February 2024, where he led the company towards significant advancements.
Mr. Kim holds an MBA degree from the Golden Gate University and BA degree in metallurgical engineering from Sungkyunkwan University.
Steve Kim
CEO & Managing Director of GreenPlus AustraliaSteve Kim is the CEO & Managing Director of GreenPlus Australia, where he is spearheading efforts to establish and develop commercial projects across the country. He holds an MBA from the University of Queensland (UQ) and has a strong background in project management, procurement, brand strategy, and marketing.
With over 28 years of experience, GreenPlus Co. Ltd, where Steve plays a pivotal role, has become a global leader in turn-key smart farm solutions. The company, publicly listed on KOSDAQ since 2019, operates two major manufacturing facilities capable of producing up to 100 hectares of smart farms annually.
Steve and his team are dedicated to investing in and fostering collaboration within the Australia-Korea agricultural and clean energy sectors, aiming to create sustainable smart farm facilities that contribute to a circular economy. He works closely with both Australian and Korean governments and industries to ensure that innovation drives this rapidly emerging sector, leveraging Korea’s technical efficiency and Australia’s strong R&D capabilities to benefit both nations. Steve also actively promotes bilateral cooperation as a board member of the Food and Agriculture Sub-committee at the Australia Korea Business Council.
Daniel Nohkyum Kyeong
CEO & Founder of Animal Industry Data Korea (AIDKR)Daniel Nohkyum Kyeong is the CEO of Animal Industry Data Korea (AIDKR), leading the development of AI-driven health management systems for livestock, including pigs, cattle, poultry, and horses. Through the Farmsplan® platform, he has successfully reduced antibiotic usage, improved animal welfare and overall farm productivity, and contributed to the realization of the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnected health of humans, animals, and the environment.
Daniel brings over a decade of experience to his current role. Before founding AIDKR, he accumulated significant experience in AI and big data analytics across various industries, including finance and healthcare. He served as CEO of AI company funded by government research institution, where he developed AI-based personalized recommendation systems. Prior to this, he was a Senior Researcher at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), focusing on AI-driven projects. His career began at Allianz Global Investors, where he specialized in investment research and financial product planning.
In addition to his work at AIDKR, Daniel is the President of the Animal Tech Korea Association and his participation in presidential committees further allows him to influence policy decisions that support technological advancements in this field. His academic background includes a degree in AI and Big Data analysis from KAIST and advanced studies in bioinformatics at Seoul National University, which support his efforts to advance the One Health concept through innovative applications of AI and biotechnology in animal digital healthcare.
Beyond his contributions to animal healthcare, Daniel has a broader vision of transforming the primary industry through innovative technology. His work continues to shape the future of animal industry, making a lasting impact on global stages.
Jay Lee
Executive Director of GS E&CDr. Jay Lee, Executive Director of Operations Support at GS E&C Australia, brings over 30 years of experience in engineering and construction. He has successfully managed major projects across Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and North America, leveraging his engineering expertise and leadership skills. Dr. Lee has worked closely with clients, consultants, and contractors on various building and infrastructure projects, including airports, marine works, roads, railways, and underground structures.
Dedicated to delivering optimal project outcomes, Dr. Lee emphasises strong leadership and fosters productive relationships with all stakeholders. He is a registered professional engineer (geotechnical) with the Engineering Council of South Korea, Engineers Australia, and the State of Washington in the U.S., and is a member of the Society of Construction Law Australia.
Kyu Hong Lee
Chief Strategy Officer at Elecseed Lab IncKyu is a hard-working individual who possesses a strong desire for achievements of right things with a humble approach to his working life and an advocate of sustainability and passionate about clean technology. Following years of managing experience in multi-million dollar cross-border investment projects, he opened an office of Elecseed in Brisbane and has been developing the Kumbarilla Renewable Energy Park (K-REP) project in cooperation with the Korea Midland Power in Southeast Queensland since 2019, and recently commenced a green hydrogen project with the Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power in South Australia.
He is also serving as an Executive Committee Member of the Korean Federation of Environmental Movements – Seongnam as well as the General Auditor of the Seongnam Citizen’s Solar Farm Coop because he likes to make contribution to local community.
Heejung Cecilia Lim
Partner, ESG Resilience Risk at Eastpoint PartnersHeejung Cecilia Lim is a first generation immigrant who solely arrived in Australia after high school to study at The University of Melbourne.
Heejung Cecilia is a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years experience in the financial services. Her expertise includes non-financial risk management covering ESG risk management, operational resilience, and technology governance. Heejung Cecilia has a diverse portfolio of corporate experience in enterprise risk management (HSBC Australia, Westpac, Challenger), tax advisory (Deloitte), technology consulting (Accenture, APRA), infrastructure funds (Macquarie Bank), regulatory compliance (BNP Paribas, ING Australia) and as a board member on Dawn Foundation (diversity & inclusion not-for-profit founded by Dai Le MP). In the early 2000s Heejung Cecilia was part of the establishment team of Macquarie Shinhan Macquarie Korea Infrastructure Fund. Currently, Heejung Cecilia is on the AKBC Financial Services sub-committee and an advisor at Eastpoint Partners Limited.
Brad Lingo
Chairman & Managing Director of Pilot Energy LimitedBrad has extensive experience in developing and implementing business strategy to create and maximize value in the Australian and International oil, gas, energy and energy infrastructure markets – from the energy resource through to the point of energy utilization. Throughout his 30- year career, Brad has held a number of Board and senior executive roles namely at Drillsearch, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Sunshine Gas and Epic Energy – all focused on developing and implementing targeted business development strategies aimed at growing and delivering shareholder value through the delivery of cost competitive energy resource solutions. In his time at Drillsearch, Brad received industry recognition including winning the SMH/East Coles S&P/ASX 200 Energy Best CEO 2014.
Rebecca Ostergaard
Chief Digital Officer at CSIRORebecca is a digital and technology leader with a career spanning more than 25 years. Her passion lies in collaborating with people and leveraging the potential of digital technologies and data to drive positive outcomes.
Beginning her career as a software engineer in the late 1990s, Rebecca has had the opportunity to work across various industries, including telecommunications, higher education, and government. Throughout her journey, she has played integral roles in transformative projects, influencing organisational digital strategies and shaping new ways of working.
In her current role as the Chief Digital Officer at CSIRO, Rebecca provides strategic leadership in the digital and data domain, with a focus on leveraging digital technology and capability towards the organisation’s goals, solving Australia’s greatest challenges. Rebecca holds an MBA and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Albert Taeyoung Park
Senior Vice President at Hyosung Heavy IndustriesAlbert Park has 30 years experience in the global power industry including power equipment manufacturing and factory automation after he studied Electrical Engineering at Yonsei University.
Albert was appointed the Senior Vice President of Hyosung Heavy Industries in 2022 and is responsible for the global businesses including Australia. He has held executive roles since 2010, and also served as the General Manager of the Saudi Arabia Office and later as the President of the India manufacturing plant.
Over the years, Albert has been leading the global business operations including the Americas, Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe and Oceania. Under his leadership, Hyosung began its operations in Sydney, Australia in 2021. Since then, the company has been supporting the leaders of the National Electricity Market (NEM) by providing solutions to address the uncertainties caused by the global supply chain and geopolitical risks.
Bill Paterson PSM
Director of AKBCAmbassador Paterson has held positions at the most senior levels in the Australian Government with responsibility for counter-terrorism, international strategic and security policy, politico-military affairs, intelligence, trade and regional issues.
From 2013 to 2016, he was Australian Ambassador to the Republic of Korea (ROK), dually accredited also to North Korea and Mongolia. Mr Paterson was Australia’s representative on the United Nations Command (UNC) for Korea and worked closely with US Forces Korea (USFK), positioning Australia as a key security partner to both the US and ROK.
Prior to that, he served as Australian Ambassador for Counter Terrorism and Head both of the International Security Division and the Southeast Asia Divisions in Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Mr Paterson was earlier Australian Ambassador to Thailand (2004-2008), and led Australia’s disaster response to the 2004 Asian tsunami.
As Ambassador to both Thailand and Korea, he focussed intensively on trade and investment promotion, including (in both countries) the initial implementation of bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs). He worked closely with major Australian and multinational energy and resource companies, including on critical access issues.
He has served as Chief of Staff and Principal Adviser to the Foreign Minister and as Assistant Secretary (Asia) in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, advising the Prime Minister on APEC, trade policy and regional issues.
Following the events of September 11, 2001, Mr Paterson was appointed Head of the Australian Government’s Anti-Terrorism Task Force and, subsequently, Head of the government’s Iraq Task Force (2002-03).
Mr Paterson served as Minister in the Australian Embassy in Tokyo from 2005-2007.
He has worked on global intelligence issues for the Office of National Assessments (ONA) and was ONA’s representative to the US intelligence community in Washington.
Mr Paterson has had long-term overseas postings in Dhaka, Baghdad, Vienna, Washington, Tokyo, Bangkok and Seoul.
In 2003, he was awarded the Public Service Medal and in 2005 the Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal. He is a Senior Fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI).
Clare Pope
Partner, Gilbert + Tobin ; Treasurer, Chair of the AKBC Critical Minerals sub-committee at Australia-Korea Business CouncilClare Pope joined Gilbert + Tobin as a Partner in the Energy + Resources team in 2023. She was a partner in the legal team at PwC, leading the practice in Western Australia.
She specialises in M&A, joint ventures and project development in the mining, energy, power/renewables and infrastructure sectors. Clare is the AKBC Treasurer and Chair of the AKBC Critical Minerals Sub-committee.
Clare holds a Masters of Law from the University of Melbourne, and a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Australia. Clare has held non-executive director roles on the ASX listed oil & gas company Entek Energy Limited, as well as roles on other not-for-profit organisations. Clare has also been recognised in various legal directories, including Best Lawyers, Doyles Guide and Asia Pacific Legal 500.
Alan Stuart-Grant
Executive Vice President - Santos Energy Solutions at Santos LtdAlan joined Santos in August 2023 as Executive Vice President, Santos Energy Solutions. He is accountable for Santos Energy Solutions global portfolio management and strategy.
Alan has more than 20 years’ experience in the energy and industrials sectors. He previously held senior positions at Ampol Limited and in the oil and gas department of Glencore plc, which followed extensive experience in private equity and investment banking in Sydney, London and Singapore.
He is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program.
Nick Van der woude
Regional Manager Western Australia at Qantas Airways LimitedAs the Regional Manager in the state of Western Australia, Nick oversees and maintains key local relationships across Business, Government, Tourism and Regional markets on behalf of Qantas Airways. The role is critical in providing local focus and advocacy in achieving broad commercial objectives.
Nick joined Qantas in 2008 and held a number of national commercial roles prior to relocating to Western Australia in 2019 to take on the current position.
He has over 20 years global experience in the tourism and hospitality sector with organisations including Singapore Airlines, Langham Hotels and Cunard.
Gerhard Veldsman
Chief Executive Officer at Hancock OperationsGerhard Veldsman is Chief Executive Officer, Operations at Hancock Prospecting, with responsibility for the two iron ore producing businesses Roy Hill and Atlas Iron.
Gerhard has extensive mining industry experience spanning various commodities and operations in Australia and South Africa, including more than a decade in iron ore.
He has managed mine, port, and rail operations in the Pilbara, overseen major capital projects, and led organisation wide strategic planning and implementation.
Gerhard initially joined Roy Hill as Chief Operating Officer in August 2019 and was named Chief Operating Officer of the Year in 2020 by CEO Magazine.
He has previously held senior management positions at Fortescue Metals Group, BHP, and BIS Industries.
Hon. Reece Whitby MLA
Minister for Energy; Environment; Climate ActionHon. Reece Whitby MLA is the Western Australian Minister for Energy; Environment; Climate Action, and Member for Baldivis.
He has overseen government departments responsible for protecting Western Australia’s environment since December 2021 and regained the Racing and Gaming portfolio in December 2022.
Reece is coordinating the State’s response to climate change while establishing a whole-of-government approach to reduce emissions.
He is Western Australia’s first Minister to attend a United Nations Climate Change Conference, addressing audiences at COP27 and meeting Ministerial counterparts from across the globe.
Reece is tasked with implementing WA’s nation-leading Plan for Plastics and the McGowan Government’s historic decision to end native logging from 2024.
As the Minister for Environment, he is responsible for delivering Plan for Our Parks. Five million hectares of national and marine parks and reserves are being created, increasing the State’s conservation estate by 20 per cent.
He will also oversee reforms in response to the Perth Casino Royal Commission and the review of WA’s liquor laws.
Reece was first appointed to Cabinet in the McGowan Labor Government in 2021, as the Minister for Emergency Services; Racing and Gaming; Small Business; and Volunteering.
He became the first local member for the new electorate of Baldivis in March 2017.
Prior to his election, Reece had a long-standing career in journalism, working at Seven News for two decades. He started as a cadet reporter at a country newspaper before joining the ABC, followed by a stint at Channel Nine. He often reported on battlers standing up for a fair go, which sparked his interest in politics.
Reece grew up on the outskirts of Perth, working in the family business from a young age. He has a passion for creating better, fairer communities and understands the importance of quality schools, transport, hospitals, and facilities for all Western Australians.
Reece and wife Natalie have four children – Faith, Sam, Luke and Hope.
Tom White
Former CEO of Uber KoreaTom was appointed CEO of a joint venture between Uber and the SK Group at its establishment in early 2021. He spent three years building a new team and ridesharing business, leveraging technology from both Uber and SK’s TMAP platform.
His journey with Uber began as the company's first local General Manager in Perth as well as Adelaide, and later included executive roles internationally, including as the General Manager of Vietnam and three years in Tokyo as the General Manager of Japan.
Tom has an economics degree from UWA, an MBA from the University of Chicago and in his spare time is now completing a second master's degree in the ethics of artificial intelligence at Cambridge University. In February he was chosen by the Liberal Party to be its candidate for the federal seat of Curtin at the next federal election.
Blair Williams
Korean TV Personality; Copywriter at Cheil AustraliaHaving lived, studied, and worked in Korea for more than ten years, Blair Williams is an Australian who proudly calls Seoul and Korea his second home. His time in Seoul fuelled his curiosity for language and culture, launched his advertising career, and kickstarted an unexpected yet fulfilling adventure in Korean TV & media.
This includes welcoming Korean TV viewers on a televised tour of Australian shores in ‘Where Is My Friend’s Home’, and highlighting Aussie family dynamics in the program ‘Welcome First Time in Korea’.
Now back in Australia, Blair still works closely with Korea, leveraging his experience as a member of the Cheil Australia team in Sydney. At all other times, you might find him quietly enjoying a cup of his favourite Hadong green tea.
Kwon-Sik Woo
Director of marketing & sales, Naval & special ship Business unit at HD Hyundai heavy industries(HHI)Kwon-Sik Woo is the Director of Marketing & Sales for the Naval & Special Ship Business Unit at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries(HHI).
With 30 years of global shipbuilding experience, he specializes in commercial and naval special ships. He excels in international business development and strategic market analysis.