NATIONAL RETAIL - Key Persons
Alice Barbery has spent the past 11.5 years with Universal Store in various roles and took the helm as CEO in 2017. Since that time she has a management buyout in 2018 from the original family start-up and in November of 2020, in the midst of a pandemic, lead the way to a successful ASX float. Universal Store has continued to go from strength to strength and currently operates 67 stores including online.
Alysha provides support to the policy department by researching, developing and drafting policy materials, including position statements, membership facing information and managing internal documents.
Alysha has completed a double degree in business and international relations with a broad skill set gained from both coursework and industry experience. Alysha's career interests are also driven by her passion for helping others and making the community a safer, happier place. This fuels her ambition to make a difference and add value to whatever she does in an enthusiastic and meaningful way.
Job Titles:
- Senior Workplace Relations Consultant
Amy Lynes is a Senior Workplace Relations Consultant with the National Retail Association, a not-for-profit organisation that represents the interests of retailers and quick service restaurants across Australia.
Amy is passionate about authentic leadership, and empowering others to reach their potential and achieve their goals. As an experienced people leader, Amy has spent over decade leading Human Resources teams and managing complex business projects. Amy's broad range of expertise spans the entire people experience; from recruitment to learning and development, strategic planning to industrial relations, work health and safety to employee engagement, Amy is dedicated to helping organisations leverage their people to drive them to success.
Serving the surfing community of the NSW Mid-North Coast, "Saltwater Wine" was founded in 1975 by local surfboard shaper Bob Brown. Similarly for the Tasmanian surf community, "Red Herring" was founded in 1971 by surfer Bill Thwaites while Wilson and his team developed the Stormriders brand for regional NSW in 2010. Headquartered in Port Macquarie NSW, each retail banner is deeply ingrained locally.
Anthony is passionate about business being a vehicle for good within the community and environment.
Anthony's retail and business career kicked off in 1989 as a wet behind-the-ears 22-year-old fresh out of an apprenticeship...
Anthony's retail and business career kicked off in 1989 as a wet behind-the-ears 22-year-old fresh out of an apprenticeship with BHP. Today Anthony's business encompasses fifteen retail surf, skate, and lifestyle stores across three unique retail banners in regional NSW and Tasmania, employing over 150 people. Serving the surfing community of...
Prior to The Lottery Corporation, Antony was previously the General Manager of Lotteries Retail at Tabcorp. He joined Tatts...
Prior to The Lottery Corporation, Antony was previously the General Manager of Lotteries Retail at Tabcorp. He joined Tatts Group in 2011 as the Head of Retail, responsible for optimising the operational and strategic performance of the Lotteries' retail distribution network. Antony has more than 25 years' of experience in...
Prior to The Lottery Corporation, Antony was previously the General Manager of Lotteries Retail at Tabcorp. He joined Tatts Group in 2011 as the Head of Retail, responsible for optimising the operational and strategic performance of the Lotteries' retail distribution network.
Antony has more than 25 years' of experience in senior retail operations, including roles with Retail Adventures, Rebel Group, Coles Liquor, Coles Supermarkets, and Big W.
He is also a Director of the National Retail Association, is a FCA-certified Franchise Executive, is a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and was named in Franchise Executives Top 30 list in 2021.
He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics and Accounting).
Job Titles:
- Administration Officer
- Administrator
Azer is a versatile administrator who supports the Policy Team at National Retail Association. Primarily working behind the scenes, he applies his skills gained from his experiences in document control and administration roles to maintain the internal and external databases. Azer has an educational background in Business Administration, Justice Studies...
Job Titles:
- Product Safety Committee Chairperson
Involved in standards development since 2015, Barbara has made a mark as a dedicated and motivated committee member. Barbara...
Involved in standards development since 2015, Barbara has made a mark as a dedicated and motivated committee member. Barbara is a participating member on a range of committees, including being chairperson of the National Retail Product Safety Committee, the industry working group on button battery safety and sitting on...
Before joining the team, Bonnie served 12 years in the Australian Federal Parliament as a Chief of Staff, campaign lead, policy adviser and media and communications manager.
She has provided advice on key legislative areas including advanced manufacturing, energy policy, STEM and education, international relations, regional job creation, agriculture and dairy and social issues such as homelessness and women's safety.
Her work has seen her establishing a Manufacturing Taskforce, and providing policy feedback in areas such as advanced manufacturing, energy and critical supply chains as well as advising on policies relating to Net Zero emissions, clean energy, medical technology and preventative health.
Bonnie travelled with a Parliamentary delegation to Western Australia and worked closely with the Chair of a bipartisan committee on issues impacting Indigenous Australians. She also travelled to the United Nations in New York representing her employer and has been privileged to work with international embassies and consulates.
Currently, alongside her invaluable work for the NRA Bonnie is undertaking a Bachelor of Science, mentoring with Country to Canberra and volunteering with Raise Foundation and Zoe's Organisation.
Job Titles:
- National Relationships Manager
- Well - Respected Membership Executive
Colin Fruk is an accomplished and well-respected membership executive with a track record of strengthening associations and profit-for-purpose businesses, including the American Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Qld (CCIQ).
Most notably, he played a central part in CCIQ's growth, doubling membership and revenue over eight years, and representing the small business sector through the emergency response phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over the course of his career, Colin has built a reputation as a positive, energetic and collaborative leader, something he chalks up to being raised in a small business family.
Job Titles:
- Director of the Policy
- Director Policy
As Director of the Policy team, David (he/him) draws on more than 32 years' direct retail industry experience, including in key management positions, to understand the challenges confronting retailers and clients to help them develop solutions.
David is a highly-respected senior executive across a wide range of retail sectors including corporate affairs, operations, customer insights, finance, procurement, risk and regulation, stakeholder engagement, community and supply chain. He is favourably regarded as a bipartisan and ethical operative in best practice across retail and corporate industry, regional and urban councils, local and state governments, and is currently involved in multiple advisory groups / committees.
David has a track record of providing a bridge between our members and politicians or bureaucrats - facilitating meetings and the exchange of ideas and information in an environment that would pose difficulties if it involved an individual business.
As Director of the Policy team, David (he/him) draws on more than 32 years' direct retail industry experience, including...
As Director of the Policy team, David (he/him) draws on more than 32 years' direct retail industry experience, including in key management positions, to understand the challenges confronting retailers and clients to help them develop solutions. David is a highly-respected senior executive across a wide range of retail sectors including...
Job Titles:
- Health and Nutrition Advisor
Dr Alan Barclay is a practicing dietician, nutritionist and chef, with close to 30 years' experience, and also serves as a media spokesperson for the Dietitians Association of Australia. Dr Barclay is a trusted voice in nutrition and supports evidence-based health policy.
During his career, Dr Barclay has specialised in public health, nutrition and diabetes and is now bringing this knowledge to the National Retail Association across health and nutrition policy as well as food regulation standards.
Dr Barclay works with retailers, Commonwealth, State and Territory health officials to help achieve evidence-based public health policy outcomes that work in the Australian retail context, while supporting consumer choice and dietary guidelines.
Dr Annison has held a number of senior roles in the food and grocery sector, most recently with the Australian...
Dr Annison has held a number of senior roles in the food and grocery sector, most recently with the Australian Food and Grocery Council. Dr Annison will be an invaluable voice for industry to help government understand the commercial realities of supply chain partners and support industry to identify and move...
Ebony is an experienced sustainability & design professional, supporting the policy team to coordinate and deliver projects that enable the retail sector to adapt to new legislation, and innovate in order to meet state and national sustainability targets. Previously as a consultant, Ebony worked with leadership teams across many sectors using Human-Centred Design (HCD) methodologies to develop Environmental Social Governance (ESG) strategies, impact initiatives, and engage senior leadership and key stakeholders in the process. Ebony is undertaking post-graduate studies in environmental management at the University of Queensland to compliment an undergraduate degree in architecture.
Job Titles:
- As Project Manager in the Policy Team, Ebony Brings a Strong Background across the Retail, Textile, and Hospitality Sectors.
- Project Manager, Policy
As Project Manager in the Policy team, Ebony brings a strong background across the retail, textile, and hospitality sectors in project management, stakeholder relations, marketing and communications. Ebony provides project management expertise to multiple projects, including sustainability, product safety, retail crime and committees.
As Project Manager in the Policy team, Ebony brings a strong background across the retail, textile, and hospitality sectors in project management, stakeholder relations, marketing and communications. Ebony brings her professional communication and problem-solving skills to all projects delivering consistently high-level results.
Ebony is currently representing retailers on multiple taskforces and committees as well as working on multiple projects within the Policy team, including the NRA's bag ban retailer engagement programs, sustainability, technical standards and loss prevention projects.
Job Titles:
- Financial Controller
- Financial Controller / Membership & Marketing
Flor Merza is the Financial Controller of the National Retail Association, bringing a wealth of knowledge from the not-for-profit space. Prior to her appointment as Financial Controller in 2022, Flor was the Head of Finance at the Leukemia Foundation. Flor graduated from the Queensland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Business, Accounting, and is a proud member of CPA Australia.
In her spare time, Flor enjoys delving into true crime novels and nature walks. Flor is also an avid traveller, with a well worn passport and a love for experiencing international culture.
Job Titles:
- Deputy Chair of the Board
- Member of the Board
Ian was the CFO of the Wallace Bishop Jewellery Group for 27 years up until 2013. Prior to that he was the Commercial Manager for James Hardy Industries Packaging Division. He has had extensive financial and general management experience in the retail, manufacturing, construction, hotel, property leasing and pastoral industries.
He is currently Deputy Chair of the National Retail Association where he has been a director for 12 years. Ian was also a non-executive director of WorkCover Queensland for 5 years.
Ian holds a Master of Business Economics Degree (Hon) UQ 2011, Bachelor of Economics UQ 1989 and a Dip. in Accounting QIT 1974.
He lives with his wife in Melbourne and is an ongoing supporter of the Brisbane Lions.
Ian Winterburn currently operates a Management Consultancy business, specializing in providing guidance to the Retail Sector in the areas of Business Performance Analysis, Structural Change and IT Project Management. Ian was the CFO of the Wallace Bishop Jewellery Group for 27 years up until 2013. Prior to that he was...
Ingrid is proud to advocate for government policy that supports the best interests of our members across Australia's retail...
Ingrid is proud to advocate for government policy that supports the best interests of our members across Australia's retail industry. Ingrid draws on over 15 years of public service experience providing public policy advice and analysis. Her advice has been used to support regional, trade, small business, industry, and arts...
Ingrid is proud to advocate for government policy that supports the best interests of our members across Australia's retail industry.
Ingrid draws on over 15 years of public service experience providing public policy advice and analysis. Her advice has been used to support regional, trade, small business, industry, and arts development; all to promote Australian business interests and assist them navigate structural adjustment.
Her work has seen her establish new Strategic Plans and Grants programs for Queensland and Victorian Arts, Science and Technology commercialisation, and Queensland Marine Industries; impact bi-lateral and multi-lateral Free Trade Agreements; guide significant projects through their Environmental Impact management; and write policy, legislation and guidelines to promote business, industry and regional growth.
Jo Ann Andres is the Accounts Officer of the National Retail Association.
Jo Ann is a highly organised, detail-oriented and experienced team member providing accounting support to the Financial Controller. Her role is vital to the Finance team in achieving their goal of producing financial reports on a timely manner.
Prior to joining NRA, Jo Ann worked as a Bookkeeper in various industries such as hospitality, construction and manufacturing firm here and in the Philippines. She started her journey in Australia in 2008 when she was granted with a 457 working visa.
Jordan is dedicated to driving sustainability initiatives and fostering strong client relationships. With a passion for sustainability, he excels in engaging with retailers in the field, understanding their concerns and aligning them with government sustainability initiatives.
Jordan has a Bachelor's degree in International Business and Electronic Media and a Master's degree in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Combining his expertise in business and sustainability, he strives to create innovative solutions that address environmental challenges while nurturing long-term partnerships with clients.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- CEO and Owner of Snuggle Hunny
- Founder of Flora & Fauna
Julie Mathers is the CEO and Owner of Snuggle Hunny, a fast growing Australian baby brand. Julie is also the...
Julie Mathers is the CEO and Owner of Snuggle Hunny, a fast growing Australian baby brand. Julie is also the founder of Flora & Fauna, an online store specialising in vegan and eco-friendly products and 2018 Telstra New South Wales Small and Succeeding Business Award winner. Julie has over 30 years experience...
Julie Mathers is the CEO and Owner of Snuggle Hunny, a fast growing Australian baby brand. Julie is also the founder of Flora & Fauna, an online store specialising in vegan and eco-friendly products and 2018 Telstra New South Wales Small and Succeeding Business Award winner.
Julie has over 30 years experience in retail and has worked across medium and large retailers before starting her entrepreneurial journey.
Julie founded Flora & Fauna in 2014 with a clear vision to be the most responsible retailer possible with the best customer service. Flora & Fauna was named Best Small Online Retailer at the 2018 ORIAs and won Telstra Small Business of the Year for NSW in 2018. Flora & Fauna is also a proud BCorp. Julie sold Flora & Fauna to an ASX listed company in 2021 and exited in Feb 2022. In Feb 2022 she also acquired Snuggle Hunny and is now taking this business on its next growth phase.
Julie has a strong personal desire to create change for the better and frequently mentors and speaks about responsible retailing and small business. Julie was named Number 1 in the 2021 and 2019 "Top 50 People in Australian eCommerce" and Industry Person of the Year at the 2021 Online Retail Industry Awards and 2022 Retail Fest.
Prior to founding Flora & Fauna, Julie has worked in the UK, Europe, Asia and now Australia for the last thirteen years. She has worked in consulting, private equity and with many retailers, including senior leadership roles in Woolworths, Coles and APG & Co
Having graduated from Bond University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Laws, Kezia has academically specialised in Corporate and Commercial Law. Kezia takes pride in her unrelenting commitment to research, organisation, and attention to detail to deliver exceptional legal support to the NRA Legal team.
Prior to joining the team, she was a dedicated volunteer at community legal centres, developing a passion for supporting clients through challenging legal matters
Lauren provides administrative support to the policy department by ensuring data integrity and assisting the team with the strategic...
Lauren provides administrative support to the policy department by ensuring data integrity and assisting the team with the strategic integration of project data to achieve high level objectives.
Lauren provides administrative support to the policy department by ensuring data integrity and assisting the team with the strategic integration of project data to achieve high level objectives.
Lauren has completed a business degree at UQ with a broad skill set gained from both coursework and industry experience. Lauren's career interests are also driven by her creative and artistic passion, fueling her ambition to add value to whatever she does in fresh and exciting ways.
Job Titles:
- Policy Officer
- Senior Policy Officer
Lily Charlton is an experienced policy officer who provides a high level of professionalism and organisation. Lily's remit oversees...
Lily Charlton is an experienced policy officer who provides a high level of professionalism and organisation. Lily's remit oversees the delivery of policy submissions to government, industry committees, industrial commission trading hour applications and supporting government relations. Lily ensures the policy team consistently meets or exceeds key deliverables on...
Job Titles:
- Interim Chief Executive Officer and Legal Practice Director
- Relations Specialist
As the Deputy CEO and Legal Practice Director at the National Retail Association, Lindsay (she/her) oversees one of the largest in-house team of workplace relations advisors and lawyers orientated to the retail and quick services industries. Lindsay is a leading workplace relations specialist and regularly provides advice on the full spectrum of workplace relations and work health and safety in Australia.
Compliance with workplace laws can be challenging but with an unwavering focus on delivering practical support to NRA's members and clients, Lindsay's team consistently achieves solid outcomes for the retail industry. Lindsay is also an experienced work health and safety lawyer with experience in work health and safety management system review, incident response and management and in defending criminal prosecutions arising from safety incidents.
Lindsay started her legal career with global law firm, Norton Rose Fulbright and prior to joining the NRA, was a trusted advisor to the mining, oil and gas, and construction sectors in an employer association to the resources industry.
Lindsay is a leading workplace relations specialist and regularly provides employment law advice, support and representation to clients across...
Lindsay is a leading workplace relations specialist and regularly provides employment law advice, support and representation to clients across all sectors of the retail and quick service industries.
Matt is an avid retail expert with a diverse professional background, including 15 years of experience in retail management. As a specialist in retail, business and operations management, Matt is passionate about fostering centre relationships and engaging in solutions to represent the interests of retailers through excellent communication skills, working collaboratively with the dynamic needs of each business and coordinating best match engagement officers to match these requirements. Matt is adept at developing and maintaining complex scheduling, coaching stakeholders on all aspects of retail operations, change management and data analysis. Matt brings a diverse skill set that enhances his ability to engage with centres through his strong business acumen and analytical skills.
Job Titles:
- Workplace Relations Advisor
Before joining the NRA Legal team, Remy was an Employment Relations Advisor who assisted small and medium-sized businesses, from...
Before joining the NRA Legal team, Remy was an Employment Relations Advisor who assisted small and medium-sized businesses, from a variety of industries, to navigate the complexities of employment law. This experience has equipped her with the skills required to deliver practical advice on workplace compliance and employee management...
Rhys Reynolds has had a successful career working across communications, marketing and Public Relations in Singapore, United Kingdom, Europe...
Rhys Reynolds has had a successful career working across communications, marketing and Public Relations in Singapore, United Kingdom, Europe and Australia. Currently, Rhys is the National Communications Manager, Corporate Affairs at Lendlease. Previous to this, Rhys was the Communications Manager at Subway Australia and New Zealand. Prior, he served as...
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- Co Chief Executive Officer and Board Member
- Director and Head of Operations in Australia
Rob is the Director and Head of Operations in Australia and is responsible for day-to-day commercial operations and performance, as well as...
Rob is the Director and Head of Operations in Australia and is responsible for day-to-day commercial operations and performance, as well as growing the Lovehoney brand in Australia & NZ. Rob's role at Lovehoney is diverse and encompasses creating, developing and implementing a multi-level business plan and strategy to ensure the successful operations of Lovehoney Australia, while accelerating its year-on-year growth. Rob...
Job Titles:
- Sustainability Consultant / Operations
Job Titles:
- Chairman of the Board
- President for Coco Republic
A well established and proven leader, Tim is the President for Coco Republic, Australia and New Zealand. He understands...
A well established and proven leader, Tim is the President for Coco Republic, Australia and New Zealand. He understands commercial and private enterprise exceptionally well having served as Principal Consultant at Lewisham Consulting, and establishing his own start-up, Fitchies, bringing a new concept of fast-food to market. In addition,...
Job Titles:
- Industry Workforce Advisor
Victoria has been delivering excellent customer service in the membership team as Member Engagement Manager since May 2019. She...
Victoria has been delivering excellent customer service in the membership team as Member Engagement Manager since May 2019. She now oversees all membership administration and retention activity.