Conference Speakers

An experienced conference MC, facilitator, and presenter with 40 years in film, television, theatre, and live events, known for engaging audiences and smoothly guiding major New Zealand conferences with energy and professionalism.

Paul, former Pro Vice-Chancellor at Massey University (2013–2019).
Paul is a Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand, researcher, and prolific author focusing on demographics, diversity, and radical right movements.

Rocco Fiorentino, President and CEO of Benetrends Financial, is a franchising leader with 30+ years’ experience, serving on industry boards and advancing franchise growth through innovative funding and leadership.

CMO of Jim’s Group and leads marketing for 5,700+ franchisees. Named 2024’s top Franchise Executive, he’s recognised for trust-based marketing strategies driving franchise growth and stronger franchisee recruitment.

Greg Nathan, business psychologist and Franchise Relationships Institute founder, offers 40 years’ expertise helping franchisees and franchisors succeed, authoring bestselling books, creating influential models, and earning global franchising awards.

Helen Alfa, Head of Membership & Partnerships at the Franchise Council of Australia, combines franchise ownership and management experience, excelling at connections, partnerships, and community engagement, known for her approachable, selfie-ready style.

Jason, founder of the Franchise Advisory Centre, has 30+ years in franchising as leader, educator, advisor, and writer, mentoring CEOs, shaping global franchise education, and contributing extensively to industry boards and publications.

Pete delivers franchise-focused workshops on media, crisis, and difficult conversations, helping leaders stay calm, credible, and strategic. Former journalist and press secretary, he combines practical de-escalation skills with proven communication frameworks.

Sacha Coburn, COO of Coffee Culture, leads 20 cafés with 300+ staff, fostering connection, culture, and purpose. Harvard-educated, lawyer-trained, she drives high-performing, people-focused, agile, and future-ready leadership.

Callum, franchise specialist with nearly 30 years’ experience, leads Franchize Consultants, guiding franchisors on leadership, governance, and system performance with practical, research-backed strategies, particularly during complexity and economic turbulence.

Katriona investigations Manager at the Labour Inspectorate, leads Northern Region and retail/franchising oversight, tackling high-risk compliance and systemic non-compliance while promoting ethical, sustainable business practices in NZ.

Abhay, Principal Advisor at Employment NZ, leverages 37+ years in hospitality and retail to help leaders build fair workplace systems. Focusing on worker protection, compliance, and ethical practices across sectors.

Commercial lawyer in Auckland specialising in franchising, licensing, commercial law, and business sales. With 38+ years’ experience, Stewart advises franchisors and franchisees globally and is recognised among the world’s leading franchising lawyers.

Partner in Jackson Russell’s Business Law Team with 20+ years’ experience advising on commercial transactions. Specialises in franchising, contract negotiations, mergers and acquisitions, securities, and delivering practical commercial solutions.

Khushbu is admitted as a Barrister & Solicitor in Auckland in 2010 & in Melbourne 2011.

She is experienced in the sale and purchase of property and of businesses. She also has expertise in franchising & licensing & drafting commercial contracts.

Felipe Dos Santos is General Manager of Harrisons Flooring, leading strategy and franchise performance. With finance qualifications, entrepreneurial experience, and industry leadership, he combines technical, commercial, and customer-focused expertise.