The BHA team fosters a culture of innovation and excellence founded on the premise that effectively applying research to real-world situations is the pinnacle of success. With cross-functional expertise in commerce, engagement, research, development and manufacturing each member brings a depth and breadth of skills – not to mention a sense of purpose that goes beyond the bottom line. Above all the BHA team embraces diversity, encourages opportunity and strives for solutions. Peter Riikonen 
Managing Director / CEO Board Member Experience: Peter has 30-plus years in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, with a particular interest in investing in innovative ideas for biotechnological applications. For the past 20 years Peter has held various executive roles in sizeable pharmaceutical organisations, managing all aspects of the product lifecycle from inception, through to development, operations and distribution to the customer. Qualifications: Bachelor of Science (Chemical Engineering). Belief: By tapping into the knowledge of dedicated team players and clients we make smart – and right – decisions. Aspiration: To transform a number of innovative biological research outcomes into industrial agricultural solutions of lasting benefit.
Dr Vic Galea
Head of Science and Development Board Member Experience: With more than 30 years’ national and international experience in research and lecturing, Vic has specialised in beneficial fungi and diseases of vegetables, fruit, field crops and native plants. Vic’s interest and enterprise in plant pathology have led to numerous research projects and discoveries in the fields of horticultural crops, the management of plant disease using biological methods through to his current large-scale research into the development of effective bioherbicide weed control. Qualifications: Bachelor of Science in Plant Pathology Doctor of Philosophy Belief: Sustainable and environmentally effective solutions in nature will enhance agricultural productivity and by sharing these research outcomes with those that benefit is a key driver for success. Aspiration: To create extraordinary opportunities for BHA and our clients through partnering, networking, shared goals and ground-breaking results.
Ian Chant Board Chair Experience: Ian has held numerous senior positions in public and private organisations since 1987 and has made considerable contributions to industry advancement with the Queensland Government. He has been part of the Complementary Medicines Industry for 20 years and is now the President of its Industry Association, Complementary Medicines Australia. Throughout his career he has held positions in laboratories, production management, sales and marketing, business development, general management and a number of Board positions. Qualifications: Bachelor of Applied Science Post Graduate Qualifications in Applied Science and Business Administration Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management Chapter Leader of the International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers Diploma Member of the Institute of Brewing (Master Brewer) Belief: When broad technical knowledge and innovative strategy design come together, regardless of the size of the organisation, visions become reality. Aspiration: To develop novel herbicidal solutions that not only work but benefit all stakeholders.
Stephen Denaro
Company Secretary Experience: A pivotal player in national and international mergers and acquisitions, business valuations, accountancy and financial services, Stephen understands the intricate operations required for successful ASX listed and unlisted companies. His particular expertise in Corporate Governance has given him insight into realising commercial opportunities well beyond the technical applications. Qualifications: Bachelor of Business (Accountancy) Graduate Diploma in Applied Corporate Governance. Belief: That the complex, and often obscure, details when woven together result in outcomes far bigger than envisaged and become a model for success. Aspiration: To build a strong financial base and diverse market penetration to guarantee BHA continued viability and growth.
Dr Ken Goulter
Head of Product Development and Operations Experience: Growing up on a farm, Ken has developed a deep knowledge of the life of plants – from diseases of the sunflower through to engineering crops for disease resistance and sugarcane biotechnology. He has particular expertise in microbiological applications, protein biochemistry, molecular methodologies for isolating encoding genes and, more recently, in the area of bioherbicides for agricultural pest management. Qualifications: Bachelor of Environmental Resource Management Masters of Science and Biopharmaceuticals Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Pathology. Belief: Harnessing the natural ability of microorganisms can transform the way we deliver better solutions for agricultural management. Aspiration: To develop practical solutions and delivery mechanisms for safer, smarter and more sustainable management practices for the agricultural industry.
Christine Borthwick
Head of Communications and Stakeholder Management Experience: More than 25 years in communications, engagement and public affairs, Christine brings a practical and focussed approach in building long-term, positive relationships with clients and industry. Qualifications: Registered Nurse Bachelor of Business Communications. Belief: Effective and honest communications underpin sustainable stakeholder relationships, build trust and lead the way for mutually beneficial outcomes for all parties. Aspiration: To communicate the real benefits of this growing technology to the entire agricultural industry.