GrainGrowers' Team

Annabel is the Policy Manager, Trade and Supply Chains at GrainGrowers. Previously, Annabel worked at the Victorian Farmers Federation in grain, transport and infrastructure policy. She has completed a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Political Science from the University of Melbourne, as well as post graduate studies in European and International Studies from Monash University.

With nearly 20 years of exposure to the grains industry and significant experience in office management, Carolyn is the backbone of the company.
As a member of the Senior Management Team, Carolyn supports both the CEO and Board of GrainGrowers. Carolyn ensures the office runs smoothly and cost effectively, whilst also managing and implementing HR processes to improve company culture and productivity. Carolyn also coordinates the WHS activities across the company and contributes to the development and implementation of plans regarding key health and safety strategies.

Constantine assists the policy team at GrainGrowers. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Sydney, focusing on Entomology and Horticulture. Through his studies, Constantine was given the opportunity to travel throughout Australia and learn about Australian agriculture first-hand. He is also an amateur beekeeper, backyard gardener and has worked on family and friends’ farms in rural Greece, where he was raised.

In her role, Courtney coordinates GrainGrowers’ events and conferences. Courtney joins GrainGrowers with an extensive background in both social and corporate event management. Courtney holds a Bachelor of Business in events and leisure from UTS and is an avid home baker.

Desmond has been with GrainGrowers since 2009.
His role covers all areas within the finance operations of the company and ensures that the finance department is run in an effective and efficient manner.
Desmond has extensive experience gained while working for large to medium sized companies across a broad range of industries.
Desmond is a Fellow of the Institute of Public Accountants and a Justice of the Peace.

Helen ensures the efficient operation of GrainGrowers’ financial division and for responsibly managing GrainGrowers’ capital base.
As Company Secretary, Helen also assists the GrainGrowers Board of Directors to continue to operate under strong contemporary governance principles.
Helen has a Masters Degree in Accounting and Finance and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia, a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a graduate of the Governance Institute of Australia.

Jonathan is located in Young NSW and is responsible for overseeing the Grower Engagement team across the country to drive membership connection and growth. He has had an extensive career in large corporations and small businesses in senior roles before joining NSW Farmers where he was appointed to lead membership which grew 6 straight years in a row. A graduate member of the AICD with over 20 years board experience with not for profits and charities, Jonathan is passionate about the success of member based for purpose organisations.

As the General Manager of Major Projects, Kaitlin is responsible for providing strategic oversight and leadership for a portfolio of major projects. With a Bachelor's degree in Politics and Economics and a deep understanding of the agricultural industry, she feels priveledged to work closely with growers across Australia and contribute to building a profitable and sustainable industry for the future. Kaitlin remains actively involved with her family's farming operation in southern NSW, further deepening her understanding and connection to the sector.

Bec is the Policy Officer, Sustainability and Natural Resource Management at GrainGrowers. Bec has a Bachelor of Environmental Management in Sustainable Development and a Masters in Conservation and Natural Resource Management from the University of Queensland. Previously, Bec has worked as a researcher in agricultural biology, consulted as an environmental scientist and more recently was an in-house sustainability specialist in Ireland. Bec is passionate about driving positive change and fostering a sustainable and profitable agricultural industry.

Roma is an award-winning communications executive whose work spans across a variety of industries including technology, professional associations and government-backed non-profits. Roma is a strategic leader with a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing and Entrepreneurship) from Curtin University and has studied international business in Europe. Having grown up in country West Australia, Roma is passionate about ensuring the voices of regional Australia are heard.

Sam has over 20 years experience working with agricultural and natural resource industries. He began his career working for the GRDC after completing his PhD and Agricultural Science degree. He has a diverse background working in a number of technical and policy roles, including the management of research programs in Australia and New Zealand along with policy and advocacy work with the National Farmers Federation.

Sarah has worked in manufacturing, technical research, innovation, market research and sustainability over the course of her career in the Australian food and agriculture industry. Before coming to GrainGrowers, Sarah led the development, launch and management of the world-first Sheep Sustainability Framework. Sarah has qualifications in Applied Chemistry, Cereal Chemistry and Sustainability.

Sean has previously held executive roles focused on (but not limited to) grower advocacy, trading, export, manufacturing & supply chain. Having been CEO of CCW Co-operative Limited and spending the vast balance of his career in various trading and management roles within the grains sector, for various small, medium and large organisations, Sean is well-informed and passionate about working to help Australian Grain Growers prosper. Sean originally hails from South Australia and holds a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Adelaide. Sean also holds a GAICD qualification from the Australia Institute of Company Directors and has served actively on industry Boards and committees during his career

Shadeh is the Administration Officer for GrainGrowers, supporting our Corporate Services Manager and Grower Engagement Officers with member data updates, travel bookings, office procedures and general enquiries. She has a background in administration, customer service, sales & graphic design. Shadeh is fluent in English, Farsi and conversational French. Having travelled & lived in various countries has enabled her to develop a passion for humanitarian services, environmental benefits, and a strong interest in agriculture & grain farming in Australia.

As the Major Projects Manager, Vince is responsible for the development and implementation of critical major projects delivering tangible outcomes for Australian growers. Following a career journey as a political staffer across State and Federal Parliaments, he felt a strong desire to return to the industry he was raised in, agriculture. Vince has joined GrainGrowers having previously worked as the Grains Manager at the Victorian Farmers Federation. He brings with him a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with a focus on sustainability and is in the process of completing his Master of International Business.

Zach manages GrainGrowers’ policy and advocacy efforts working to ensure the right policy settings for Australia’s grain growers. Previously, Zach has worked for the Department of Agriculture and most recently was the Grains Policy Director at AgForce Queensland Farmers. He has qualifications in International Relations and Public Policy and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Zach is from Merriwa in rural New South Wales, where his family remains involved in agriculture.