Conference Speakers

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.

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.

The Minister for Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing, and Associate Minister of Immigration. MP for Upper Harbour since 2023, Cameron brings extensive experience across business, communications and local government.

Matthew Maurice Doocey is a New Zealand politician who was elected to the New Zealand Parliament at the 2014 general election as a representative of the New Zealand National Party. He was re-elected in 2017 with a majority increase of over 10,000 which was a significant increase from a majority of 2,500 in 2014

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.

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 is the 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.

Jason Hill is General Manager of Hire A Hubby and Green Acres, leading franchise networks across New Zealand. Passionate about coaching and mentorship, he focuses on people-led growth, franchise success, and future-proofing the sector.

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 was admitted as a Barrister & Solicitor in Auckland in 2010 and Melbourne in 2011. She specialises in property and business transactions, with expertise in franchising, licensing, and commercial contract drafting.

Sam Pollock is General Manager at Cookie Time Group, overseeing a nationwide franchise sales network and five consumer brands. She brings extensive expertise in franchise strategy, operations, leadership and commercial performance.

Driven entrepreneur and CEO of Pets in the City, specialising in strategy, growth, and franchise development. Passionate about empowering teams, building high-performing businesses, creating opportunities for young New Zealanders’ success.

Jennie Ekigbo is an Auckland-based entrepreneur and advocate, co-owning Peak Clean. With a background in banking, development, and advocacy, she champions racial, gender, and economic justice, and is a mother of three.

Richard Goodman, CEO since February 2022, previously led Heinemann Australia/New Zealand, securing major retail leases. Formerly 16 years at David Jones, he also chaired the Australian Duty Free Association.

Leading Leaders at BNI New Zealand | TEDx Speaker | Founder | Franchise Executive | Assoc. Cert Coach & Team Coach

Adem transforms operational complexity into practical, scalable solutions. Combining corporate expertise with entrepreneurial agility, he streamlines processes, improves team performance, reduces friction, and helps growing businesses operate more efficiently and effectively.

Darryn is CEO of FRANdata New Zealand and Australia, bringing 30 years’ banking and finance experience. A former NAB executive, he specialises in franchising strategy, risk management, research, and industry reporting.

Commercial finance specialist with over a decade of experience across franchise funding, business lending, and hospitality finance, combining strong financial expertise with senior operational leadership to deliver practical, growth-focused solutions for business owners.

Highly experienced advisor at Nexia New Zealand with more than 25 years in accounting, tax, and franchise advisory, supporting franchisors with structuring, compliance, cross-border tax, and business transactions including valuations and due diligence.

Franchise banking leader at Westpac New Zealand with more than 25 years’ experience in finance and deep franchise sector expertise, bringing hands-on business ownership insight, industry leadership, and a strong commitment to mentoring franchise operators.

Brent Dunshea brings more than 25 years of experience with MTF Finance, overseeing franchise sales and purchases nationwide. He is passionate about supporting franchisees to build successful, sustainable, locally owned businesses.

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.

An experienced leader with expertise in business management, marketing, and governance, Katrina is CEO of FANZ. She has a strong background in corporate and nonprofit and holds a Master of Commerce. She is passionate about community impact and singing.

Brad Jacobs is Director of The Coffee Club and Chair of the FANZ Board. A strategic leader passionate about franchising and retail. Drives The Coffee Club’s growth to 65+ sites through expansion, site acquisition, and franchise recruitment.