For the first 13 years of his career, David worked in the aerospace industry for Boeing, Airbus and Pilatus Aircraft, covering a variety of technical and leadership roles in engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance. Following a career change motivated by his passion for more sustainable and innovative food systems, David left Boeing and helped launch Food Frontier. He then became COO of Hemple, an Australian hemp foods startup, and subsequently the APAC Regional Manager for Hungry Planet, a U.S. premium plant based meat company. In mid-2019, he founded Change Foods which is producing dairy products using precision fermentation, and whose mission is to develop sustainable, healthier, and more ethical food supplies for the future.

Jessica Freitag

Policy & Advocacy Coordinator
Jess brings knowledge of social policy and communications to her role as Policy & Advocacy Coordinator.

Dr. Sam Perkins

Chief Executive Officer
CAA is a tight-knit and committed team led by Dr. Sam Perkins, who has a diverse background spanning engineering and humanitarian sectors.

Hamish Toohey

Operations Coordinator
Hamish brings a people-first approach from his background in social enterprise, nonprofits and international development.

Hannah Andersen

Executive Director, Operations & People
Hannah brings two decades of experience in international development, agribusiness & systems change.

Dr. Anne-Sophie Dielen

Head of Policy & Government Relations
Anne-Sophie is a former researcher who transitioned into science strategy, regulation, and advocacy after over a decade in academia.

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Paul Oosting

Director
Paul is well-versed in climate and environmental impact, having spent the last 15+ years working in impact for justice, nature, and climate solutions.

Dr. Bianca Le

Founder (Former Director)
In August 2020, cell biologist Bianca, took a massive leap of faith and founded CAA mid Melbourne lockdown.

Dr. Carin Basirun

Secretary (Administration)
Carin holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering and over five years of experience in tissue engineering.

Elaine Siu

Director
Elaine is a veteran in the alternative proteins space, having served in multiple roles in pioneering organisations including The Good Food Institute.

Chloe Dempsey

Acting Chair
Chloe brings a range of experience in strategy, policy, and green technology to her role as Acting Chair.

Dr. James Ryall

Advisor
James Ryall is a distinguished biotech consultant with over twenty years of expertise in cell biology, biomanufacturing, and regenerative medicine.

Glen Neal

Advisor
Glen has more than 20 years of experience in food regulation and biosecurity, which has developed his expertise in crisis and risk management.

Dr. Anna Barlow

Advisor
Anna is a seasoned expert in the food and agritech sectors, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to our advisory committee.

Dr. Anna Barlow

Advisor
Anna is a seasoned expert in the food and agritech sectors, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to our advisory committee.

Dr. James Ryall

Advisor
James Ryall is a distinguished biotech consultant with over twenty years of expertise in cell biology, biomanufacturing, and regenerative medicine.

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