Stephen Durkin is CEO of AusIMM, the peak body for professionals working in the resources sector. Founded in 1893 and operating under Royal Charter, AusIMM represents 15,000 members all over the world. Since being appointed CEO in 2017, AusIMM has embarked on a significant change program to be a more contemporary organisation with a stronger external focus. AusIMM now delivers an expanded range of professional development and plays a more influential role in upholding professional standards and shaping some of our most important industry conversations. Stephen has extensive experience in association management, including five years as CEO of Engineers Australia and previously over 15 years experience at National Australia Bank in several executive roles.

Gerard Barron became involved in the early strategic development and financing of DeepGreen during its formation in 2011 and stepped into the role of DeepGreen’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 2018. From July 2013 until becoming Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 2017, Mr. Barron served as a strategic advisor to DeepGreen Board and shareholders. Mr. Barron is a seasoned entrepreneur with a track record of building global companies in battery technology, media and future-oriented resource development both as a chief executive officer and strategic investor. In 2001, Mr. Barron founded Adstream, a global advertising technology and services provider, and served as the company’s Chief Executive Officer until December 2013. During that time, Adstream grew from a single office in Sydney to over 40 offices in 30 countries around the world and over $100 million in global revenue per year. Mr. Barron has also been a first money investor in industry-leading companies including Nautilus Minerals and Sirtex Medical.

Melissa Harris PSM is the Chief Executive Officer of Geoscience Australia, our national geoscience agency delivering trusted information and services that support a strong economy, resilient society and sustainable environment. Its activities are extensive and include the 35-year $3.4 billion Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity initiative that will find the critical minerals and strategic materials vital to our future and the transition to net zero. It also includes the $200 million partnership with the United States on Earth observation through the Landsat Next program as well as the provision of satellite positioning, through the Positioning Australia initiative. Melissa is an experienced chief executive who has worked in government for over 30 years leading change and innovation programs in land administration and planning. Melissa received the Public Service Medal in the 2023 Kings Birthday Honours for outstanding public service to state and local government, and transformation in the areas of geospatial, planning and land administration in Victoria.