Our People

Senior Manager Strategic Projects and Engagement. Kathy is a leader in investment attraction, strategic projects and stakeholder engagement for the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct. She plays a key role in positioning the precinct as a leading Asia-Pacific innovation hub, with a vision to be internationally recognised for transforming lives through healthcare innovation, new knowledge and next-generation technologies.

Millo Hosseini is Project Manager of the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee. With a background in economic development, business, and event management, he brings a results-driven approach to solving regional workforce challenges. Millo holds a Business Management and Marketing degree and has extensive experience delivering major events and projects.

Peter McGuinness is Principal Industry and Economic Development Officer at Invest Gold Coast and founder of the YOU CHOOSE programs. He leads business and industry engagement, focusing on sustainable economic growth, talent attraction and retention, local supply chain connections, and fostering innovation, investment, and diversity across the Gold Coast economy.

Estella Rodighiero is Director of RDA Gold Coast, supporting initiatives that drive innovation, jobs, and investment. Her career began with Trade 2018 during the Commonwealth Games, and she now champions sectors like Industry 4.0, biomedical supply, and the Health and Knowledge Precinct through strategic connections and regional economic development.

Adam Chanter is the Maritime Industry Workforce Advisor with Marine Jobs, addressing national marine industry skills shortages. With experience in custom boat building and vocational education, he supports skills and employment initiatives aligned with Queensland’s Superyacht Strategy, promoting marine careers and workforce solutions through strong regional and industry collaboration.

Carmen Auer coordinates the Gold Coast Youth Employment Body and brings extensive experience in youth advocacy, education, and career development. With a background in policy, partnerships, and national youth programs, she is passionate about amplifying young people’s voices and creating meaningful pathways into education, employment, and community engagement.

Joshua Lumley is Founder and Managing Director of prmpt., an R&D tax advisory firm. With a strong passion for innovation and emerging technologies, Josh helps Australian start-ups and businesses access funding through strategic consulting and government incentives, supporting growth and advancement in the innovation ecosystem.

Rachel Bowman is a people experience and talent specialist focused on workforce attraction, development, and retention. She designs evidence-based talent programs for national organisations, with expertise in strategy, project delivery, and partnerships. Rachel values wellbeing and brings past experience as a business owner and personal trainer to her work.

Simon Hislop is Director of Business Development and Commercial Operations at TAFE Queensland. An executive leader with an MBA and AAICD credentials, Simon brings extensive experience across education, digital analytics, marketing, and stakeholder engagement, driving strategic growth and partnerships across a diverse range of industries.

Dr Samantha Kilmartin is a program manager and researcher specialising in inclusive, evidence-based workforce development and regional growth. With a PhD on graduate employment barriers, she leads initiatives connecting diverse talent to opportunities through strategic design, stakeholder engagement, and social impact research, driven by equity and regional capacity building.

Jody Mcaully manages the Gold Coast Manufacturing Hub, part of Queensland’s Department of Regional Development. She works closely with universities, schools, TAFE, businesses, unions, and local governments to develop a skilled workforce in science, technology, engineering, and maths, supporting the region’s manufacturing growth and innovation.

​Experienced HR executive with 20+ years leading people strategy for organisations of up to 9,000 staff. Passionate about leadership development, performance, and building capability, with a strong record across Australia and Asia Pacific. Known for aligning people strategy with business goals to drive growth in dynamic, complex environments.

Rebecca Hyssett is Industry Engagement Manager at Construction Skills Queensland for the Gold Coast. With a background in education and business development, she supports workforce capability by helping businesses and individuals grow skills, develop careers, and navigate training opportunities across the construction sector.

Rowena Ryan is Regional Manager for Gold Coast QLD and Northern Rivers NSW with AusIndustry’s Business Outreach Network. She offers trusted guidance to local businesses, helping them navigate government support, build connections, and foster partnerships that drive innovation, competitiveness, and regional growth.