Get inspired and network with fellow entrepreneurial thinkers! Bernie Brookes AM, industry-leading expert in the Australian retail sector and current owner and Executive Chairman of Colette by Colette Hayman, will be our guest speaker for this year's Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship's (AGSE) Annual Oration.

Bernie Brookes is a renowned leader in the retail sector with over thirty years of experience. He has run the largest non-food retailer in Africa, established the largest electrical retailer in India and has extensive experience in China. He is Patron of the Joe Berry Retail Award, runs the World retail Congress University challenge and holds the United Nations “he-for-she” award. He is Chairman of Innovations at TVSN and Chairman of the CEO Institute.

Join us for an evening of inspiration and learning as Bernie Brookes shares his journey, experiences, insights into the entrepreneurial mindset and strategies that have driven his successful career. This event is an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and students to gain valuable knowledge from a retail industry expert.

Program:

5.15pm | Arrivals: Guests are welcomed to the event
5.30pm | Formalities commence: Introduction by Carla Ferraro, Associate Professor in Marketing followed by Bernie Brookes' address and fireside Q&A
7.00pm | Formalities conclude: Networking session begins. Enjoy drinks, a grazing table, and canapes while connecting with fellow attendees

Register now and make the most of this valuable opportunity to gain insights and form new connections!

About the Speaker

Bernie Brookes AM is an experienced Australian Executive, chief executive and chair with substantial expertise in retail, supply chain management, wholesale operations and IT systems. He has more than four decades of business management experience.

As the Executive Chairman of Colette by Colette Hayman, he steers one of Australia's most iconic fashion accessory brands. In 2020, Brookes acquired Colette by Colette Hayman out of administration and subsequently established Marquee Retail Group to manage the brands. Under his leadership, the group also acquired The Daily Edited following its liquidation in October 2022.

Brookes was a senior executive at Woolworths, chief executive of Myer Holdings for nine years and Edcon South Africa for three years. His extensive experience and strategic insights have made him a highly respected leader and visionary in the retail sector.

In 2013, Brookes was inducted into the Australian Retailers Association Hall of Fame. In 2016, he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia and the United Nations 'He for She' South African Award, and was CEO of the Year Sub Sahara in 2017.