Michael leads Zoom’s team across Asia Pacific, starting as the region’s first employee in 2017 and overseeing the company’s growth strategy and operations across all customer segments.

He has built and led teams in high growth technology companies over the last 15+ years across Australia and Asia, including establishing operations in this region for a number of these.

Michael is passionate about helping customers be more successful and productive through technology, especially when it enables and improves public access to education, health and social services.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Business from University of Technology (UTS), and is a CA

What drives your passion for the Bears?

I grew up on the North Shore, did all my schooling in the area and reside there today with my wife Karen and our two boys.

After returning to Australia 15 years ago after time overseas and having seen the demise of the ill-fated JV with arch rivals Manly, it was disappointing that a league heartland like Sydney did not have a team at the top level covering a big part of Sydney, north of the Harbour Bridge.

Though at the same time, seeing the raw passion and energy of true suburban rugby league, and supporting the Bears in NSW Cup, rekindled my passion for what rugby league is all about – the importance of connection to the local North Sydney community, and harnessing their support – as well as the existing Bears fans – in keeping the heritage and traditions of the Bears alive.

I am a big believer that rugby league is a great leveler socially and in business. Not enough has been done to harness this, even at NRL level – but not having the Bears represented is a big hole I’d like to personally advocate for knowing what it means so much to so many – and an opportunity to attract new fans and corporate support also.

How will you contribute to the growth of the North Sydney Bears?

I have led successful teams in the technology industry across Australia, Asia and UK/Europe. I’d like to share my experience gained across sales, business development, operations and finance disciplines, specialising in:

– High growth go to market strategy and execution (market entry & turnaround)

– Developing new business opportunities and partnerships

– Driving fiscal responsibility and accountability

– Leading digital transformation projects, leveraging technology platforms

I am passionate about both rugby league and digital/technology innovation, which can be key part of the club’s business strategies and differentiation. I’ll provide advice and guidance for the club to be a leader in adopting and using technology to increase engagement and access to the club, as well as enhancing and increasing reach to supporters and partners across Australia and beyond.

I also have built an extensive network in Australia, Asia and US and hope this will help when advocating and harnessing support for the Bears.