MENTEM - Key Persons


Andrew Truman

Job Titles:
  • Full Stack Engineer
Andrew joined the Mentem team at the start of 2023. He's an experienced full-stack engineer who has worked across development and systems admin roles in a range of start-ups and sectors. Outside of Mentem, Andrew is a dog person and has worked with foster animals.

Arvind Sampath - CEO

Job Titles:
  • CEO
Arv has over 25 years of experience in managing large teams and delivering technology programs in the Higher Education, Publishing, Construction and Engineering industries. He has been with UNSW for over 10 years, helping to develop and implement the university's 2025 strategy and now as CEO of Mentem, has taken on a leadership role in driving and implementing UNSW's lifelong learning strategy. Outside of work, Arv is passionate about cricket, rugby league, politics and cooking.

David Pope

Job Titles:
  • Client Relationship Manager
David has over 8 years' experience in the education and training sectors; bringing a deep understanding of organisational strategy and an interest in personal life-long learning. He has a knack for developing enduring relationships with clients across any industry; having partnered ASX100 clients and government on every level. Intrinsically purpose driven, David thrives on contributing towards organisational and societal impact. When he's not injured, David is a keen martial arts practitioner.

Eva Zhang

Job Titles:
  • Project and Production Coordinator
Eva is a project management professional focused on delivering excellence to all her projects and collaborations. She embraces the ethos of lifelong learning and development, a belief that drives her to constantly refine her skills and expertise while staying up-to-date with new learning and industry trends. When she's not immersed in project management, Eva indulges in her passion for scuba diving, exploring the depths of the ocean and the wonders it holds.

Garth Crossley

Job Titles:
  • Client Relationship Director
Garth has 15 years experience in Talent mobility, diagonistics and Implementing large scale upskilling programs. Some of the projects he's most proud of include developing a framework and solution for a global telecommunication client to be able to identify the level of digital acumen of the entire workforce and; working with Suncorp to build a talent academy to protect the knowledge of hundreds of employees and help them develop skills for the future. He love's a challenge no matter how big.

Jenny Shao

Job Titles:
  • Customer Experience ( CX ) Designer
Meet Jenny, a seasoned CX/UX designer with over 9 years of experience across diverse industries, including education, architecture, and finance. Her passion for design is matched only by her love for collaborating with others and working in agile environments. Jenny's creative and analytical approach to problem-solving has helped her bring fresh perspectives to every project she's worked on, resulting in outstanding outcomes for her clients. Outside of work, Jenny enjoys exploring architecture, hiking, photography, sketching, and cooking

Jo Anne Tay

Job Titles:
  • Learning Designer
Jo is a highly skilled learning designer with over a decade of experience in digital and video production. She specialises in developing bespoke learning materials for K12, higher education, and adult learners using face-to-face, blended, and video formats. Jo prioritises user-centered learning and works collaboratively with clients to achieve exceptional outcomes. She is a tech enthusiast, martial arts practitioner, and nature lover who enjoys music and art in her free time.

Key Hui

Job Titles:
  • Architect
  • Senior Software Engineer
Key is a highly experienced full-stack software engineer with over 16 years of experience in implementing software solutions that meet the needs of businesses and organizations across a wide range of industries. He is proficient in a variety of programming languages and serverless frameworks on AWS. In his leisure time Key enjoys running and playing soccer.

Liz Smith

Job Titles:
  • Learning Director
Liz has more than 25 years' experience in learning design and the student experience in higher education. She has designed some of Australia's most innovative and highly regarded learning programs and received national recognition for her work. Liz developed the Mentem learning model and FIRST principles and leads the learning design team who ensure Mentem programs meet client and learner needs. In her spare time, Liz is a keen cyclist, hiker and café and coffee research assistant.

Meet Jenny

Job Titles:
  • CX / UX Designer

Natasha Krüger

Job Titles:
  • Client Success Manager
Natasha Krüger is highly regarded for her exceptional communication skills, attention to detail, and extensive knowledge. She has a talent for quickly understanding and conveying complex ideas with clarity. Natasha consistently goes above and beyond to support her team and clients, demonstrating a proactive approach in identifying and addressing potential issues. Her commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in her continuous pursuit of knowledge and staying up-to-date with industry trends. Natasha is a valued collaborator who sets clear expectations and excels under pressure, consistently delivering outstanding results.

Neil Barnett

Job Titles:
  • Senior Learning Designer
Along with a background in graphic design and design thinking methodology, Neil brings over 20 years of learning and teaching experience to his role as Senior Learning Designer at Mentem. He has written visual communication degree programs delivered in face to face and blended modes, as well as video-based, speech pathology courses, and online bootcamp style programs for adult learners in design thinking and UX design.

Philip Ip

Job Titles:
  • Tech Lead
Philip has a proven track record of delivering award-winning, cutting-edge solutions to prestigious clients in government, banking, and universities. He also founded an EdTech startup backed by a global venture capital firm. With more than 18 years of professional experience in the IT industry, his expertise covers frontend/backend/mobile development, data engineering, data science, and infrastructure management. Philip is driven by a strong commitment to innovation and aims to create impactful solutions that drive societal transformation.

Samantha Cornall

Job Titles:
  • Client Success Manager
Samantha Cornall is a dedicated professional with expertise in project and events management, business development, consulting, and account management. With a diverse background in higher education, sports, hospitality, cultural development, and recruitment, she has built strong relationships and stays updated on new concepts and offerings. Samantha thrives on challenges and making a difference, working effectively as a self-motivated team player. Committed to ongoing learning and development, she believes in bringing her best self to work each day, contributing to the success of her colleagues and the organization.

Steve Crooks

Job Titles:
  • Head of Product
Steve has over 15 years' experience in education and digital product management, having built edtech teams and innovative programs across a variety of sectors worldwide. At Mentem Steve leads a team responsible for the research, design, development and evolution of our digital platforms and tools. In his free time he runs marathons and the occasional ultra.