International Expansion & Value Creation Award: The 2025 nominees

Romain Bertin is a Partner & Director at CYLAD Australia, a management consulting firm, and the President of the French Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FACCI), South Australia chapter.

Founded in 2007 in France, CYLAD supports technology-driven companies in shaping growth strategies, enhancing performance, and leading business transformations. From its origins as a boutique firm, CYLAD has evolved into a global consultancy of 150 professionals and nine offices across Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Recognised by Forbes as one of the World’s Best Management Consulting Firms for four consecutive years (2022–2025), CYLAD continues to strengthen its global reputation for excellence.

Under Romain’s leadership, CYLAD successfully established sustainable operations in Australia. Romain began his career as an engineer at the European Space Agency in the Netherlands before joining CYLAD in France in 2013, where he worked with clients across Europe. In 2019, he was part of a pioneering team of three consultants deployed to Australia to support a major Defence program. When the program was unexpectedly terminated, Romain played a pivotal role in steering CYLAD through what could have marked the end of its presence in the country. Demonstrating resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial acumen, he rebuilt the practice project by project—delivering exceptional value to clients and laying a strong foundation for the firm’s long-term success in Australia.

CYLAD Australia has played a key role in supporting the international expansion of both French and Australian companies. Romain’s team has helped foreign companies successfully enter the Australian market—establishing bi-national program management teams for a new defence program, conducting market assessments for a rail infrastructure provider, and advising on offer strategies, bid preparation, and project delivery. In parallel, the team has also supported Australian companies in expanding globally. This includes developing APAC market entry strategies for a defence client and creating export plans for small and medium-sized enterprises across sectors such as healthcare, education, agri-tech, construction, and software.

Romain also actively contributes to the French-Australian business, cultural and social ecosystems through his engagement with the French Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FACCI), French Assist, and HEC Paris alumni network.

Pierre Briand is a French-Australian dealmaker, founder and Managing Partner of SCD Advisory, an independent boutique advisory firm specialising in mid-market M&A transactions in the business-services sector. Pierre holds a degree from the Business School of Troyes in France, a postgraduate qualification in Corporate Finance from the University of Caen, is a certified Financial Analyst, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). With over 25 years of experience advising entrepreneurs, his background spans corporate finance, private banking, wealth management, IPOs, mergers & acquisitions, consulting executions, and international dealmaking. He began his career in Australia, later relocating to France, where he worked with prominent business figures including François Pinault at Artemis on M&A deals. In Paris he founded BC&D, a small-cap M&A firm, and held senior roles at DeGroof (Belgian Family Office) and JP Morgan, leading the high net-worth segment. Pierre returned to Australia in 2015, following which he established the ANZ arm of a UK-headquartered M&A firm, executing multiple transactions, before launching SCD Advisory in 2019. Under his leadership, SCD Advisory has completed 35-plus transactions (some cross-border) and been awarded multiple international M&A honors from 2021 through 2024. Fluent in both French and English, Pierre combines his Franco-Australian identity with a personal passion for international travel, gastronomy, sailing, and golf. ([SCD Advisory][1]) Known for his trusted guidance, technical expertise, and deep understanding of both local and international business cultures, he continues to help entrepreneurs prepare for, negotiate, and execute complex transactions, ensuring value realisation and impact for all stakeholders.

Cynthia Dearin is an international business strategist, keynote speaker, author, and the founder of Dearin & Associates and the International Business Accelerator. With over two decades of experience spanning diplomacy, management consulting, and entrepreneurship, she has dedicated her career to helping companies seize global opportunities and scale internationally. She is also the host of the "Business Beyond Borders" podcast and the author of two books: the Amazon best-seller "Camels, Sheikhs and Billionaires" and "Business Beyond Borders: Take Your Company Global". Her work is driven by the conviction that we live in a globally interconnected economy where even small and medium-sized enterprises can reach international markets in ways that were once unimaginable. The rise of new economies has created billions of consumers with increasing buying power, dreams, and ambitions—clients and competitors at the same time. For Cynthia, international expansion is not just an opportunity but a necessity: companies that operate globally earn more, innovate more, and create better workplaces than those confined to a single market. Recognising the hurdles business owners face, Cynthia founded the International Business Accelerator to address three main challenges: creating effective strategies to enter international markets, generating the momentum to implement them, and accessing the capital to scale. Through this program, she empowers companies to amplify their strategy, momentum, and revenue, enabling them to make a lasting impact worldwide. Passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration, Cynthia continues to inspire and support business leaders in navigating the risks and rewards of global markets. Her mission is to equip ambitious companies with the tools and confidence to expand beyond borders, change their industries, and contribute to shaping the future of the global economy.

Lucie Juhel is a distinguished French-Australian executive who has significantly contributed to the luxury retail industry in Australia. As the Managing Director of Chanel Australia and Chanel APAC, she leads the brand's operations across Australia and New Zealand, overseeing strategic direction, brand positioning, and market expansion. Her leadership has been instrumental in enhancing Chanel's presence and reputation in the region. With a background in luxury brand management, Lucie has a deep understanding of the nuances of the Australian market and the expectations of its discerning clientele. She is known for her strategic vision, operational excellence, and commitment to maintaining the brand's heritage while adapting to the evolving retail landscape. Beyond her corporate achievements, Lucie is an active member of the French-Australian business community. She serves as a Conseiller du Commerce Extérieur (CCE), advising the French government on economic and trade matters, and contributing to strengthening bilateral relations between France and Australia. Lucie's dedication to excellence, innovation, and cultural exchange exemplifies the spirit of the French-Australian Excellence Awards.

Roland Lascombes is the CEO of Laboratoires Odost, a French company that embodies entrepreneurial spirit and is actively engaged in the Australian market. Under his leadership, the company has brought its two flagship brands, Buccotherm and Castéra, to Australia, reinforcing the economic and commercial ties between France and Australia. Buccotherm is a pioneer in oral care, offering innovative products formulated with the unique properties of Castéra-Verduzan thermal spring water. Castéra, meanwhile, provides skincare solutions that highlight the strengths of French dermatological expertise, particularly for sensitive skin. By introducing these brands to Australia, Roland has helped showcase French innovation and excellence in health and wellness. Laboratoires Odost has chosen to approach the competitive Australian market with a strategy grounded in partnership and innovation. For Roland, success is measured not only by sales, but also by the ability to build strong, lasting relationships with both professionals and consumers. This long-term commitment has allowed the brands to stand out and earn the trust of Australian customers. The company’s investment in Australia is both strategic and sustainable. Roland has played a direct role in building partnerships and strengthening collaboration with local businesses, ensuring Buccotherm and Castéra are firmly established in the market. Their participation in the Naturally Good trade show further reflects this commitment to becoming part of Australia’s professional network. Through his leadership, Roland Lascombes demonstrates how a French enterprise can expand successfully in Australia while contributing positively to the local community. His vision and dedication highlight the value of Franco-Australian collaboration, positioning Laboratoires Odost as a benchmark for international expansion and value creation.

Charlie Page is the Country Manager for Australia & New Zealand at Pellenc ST, a French company renowned for its intelligent, connected sorting technologies designed for recycling and waste industries. He is responsible for overseeing local market strategy, customer success, and technical support across both countries. Pellenc ST produces its sorting equipment in France, with more than 2,500 machines currently operating in over 40 countries worldwide. This gives Charlie a strong link to French manufacturing heritage and the company’s leadership in sustainable technology. Under his leadership, Pellenc ST Australia has opened a new industrial test centre where customers can trial their own waste streams and benefit from expert advice on sorting strategies—an initiative Charlie has publicly supported. Charlie’s work involves balancing global standards with local needs: adapting solutions to Australian and New Zealand waste streams, navigating regulatory differences, and ensuring commercial viability. His role supports collaboration between French engineering excellence and local environmental concerns. While there’s limited public information about his personal history or French origins, his professional role as Country Manager at a France-headquartered firm anchors him firmly in the French-Australian business ecosystem. Through Charlie’s efforts, Pellenc ST ANZ continues strengthening the adoption of sustainable sorting technology in the region, promoting circular economy principles, and building stronger French-Australian industrial ties.

Bernadette Panton is currently the Partnerships Manager at Diversified Australia, located in Melbourne, Victoria. In this role she focuses on developing and maintaining strategic partnerships, identifying new business opportunities, cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders, and driving revenue growth for the company. Prior to joining Diversified, Bernadette has built a substantial career in sales and event industry engagement. She has worked as a Sales Manager within Diversified’s Flavours of the World division. Earlier, she held the position of Hosted Buyer Manager for Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Events (AIME) at Talk2 Media & Events, and she also served as Head of Industry Engagement for Delegate Connect in the APAC region. These roles have given her broad experience across events, hybrid/virtual experiences, client acquisition, and business development. In her current partnerships role, Bernadette leverages her background in event engagement, sales strategy, and market growth to strengthen Diversified Australia’s position within the exhibitions and events sector. Her work contributes to both event performance and industry collaboration. Despite limited public detail about her early life or formal training, her trajectory shows consistent skill in adapting to evolving business models—especially as the events industry shifts toward hybrid and digital formats. Bernadette’s influence in the events and exhibitions field underscores the importance of connecting people, brands, and experiences. Her commitment to building strong, mutually beneficial relationships helps ensure that events under Diversified’s umbrella remain relevant, engaging, and reflective of current industry trends.

Ryan Parkin is a seasoned executive with deep expertise in finance, corporate development, and international business. He is currently CEO & Managing Director of Infinity Lithium in Australia, and Co-Founder & Non-Executive Board Member of Viridian Lithium in France. His leadership spans both sides of the globe, bridging European industry with the Australian business environment. With over fifteen years of experience, Ryan has held senior roles in listed and unlisted companies, including positions in auditing, finance, and capital raising. His career began as a Senior Accountant at Ernst & Young, followed by corporate development & financial analyst roles. He has worked across diverse sectors such as infrastructure, resources, agribusiness, and technology. Ryan’s academic credentials reinforce his international orientation. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting & Finance from The University of Western Australia, a Graduate Diploma in Accounting from Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand, and a French language diploma (DELF) from Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour. His French studies and current leadership of a company with operations in France emphasize his connection to French culture and business. At Infinity Lithium and Viridian Lithium, Ryan is driving projects that align with both sustainability goals and global supply chain demands. His role involves guiding investment, ensuring governance, securing financing, and expanding operations to meet the growing demand for battery-grade lithium chemicals. In doing so, he exemplifies the potential of French-Australian collaboration in shaping cleaner energy futures across continents.

Since arriving in Australia in 2008, Emile Rastoll has pursued a vision that brands, when built with purpose and precision, can transform business, people, and communities into engines of cultural connection and commercial success. With early experience in Europe, notably within the McCann Group, Emile gained a strong understanding of how strategic branding drives growth across borders. In 2014, Emile joined TOAST Creative as Business Partner alongside founder Nick Sammut. Together, they have grown TOAST into a trusted strategic and creative partner for companies expanding into new markets. His work with French-led companies such as Polyglot, Anavo, and Smart Mango has been instrumental in building their brands, strengthening positioning, and securing greater market share, clear proof of the value of brand-led expansion. From high-growth ventures to established corporates including the global English pet food leader Applaws, Emile has guided brands to scale with impact, ensuring their stories resonate commercially while respecting cultural nuance. An active member of the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FACCI), Emile regularly leads conferences and workshops that support French businesses entering and thriving in the Australian market. Beyond business growth, Emile is passionate about using branding as a force for good. In 2024, he co-founded and designed the brand for Climate Action Work Sydney (CAW SYD) with the support of the City of Sydney and Greenhouse, creating a collaborative platform for businesses to co-innovate around climate solutions. He has also partnered with WWF Australia to promote renewable energy and position Australia as a future energy superpower. His earlier contributions include leading the branding of the 2024 and 2025 global Earth Hour campaigns (now present in more than 200 countries) and developing Epson’s first international program for energy saving. Today, Emile’s work reflects a distinctly Franco-Australian vision: strategic, creative, and human-centred. His journey demonstrates that when business ambition is paired with cultural insight and social responsibility, brands become catalysts for growth, innovation, and positive change. Emile French’s touch: A unique blend of strategy and purpose.

Janie Wittey is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB) in Australia, a role she has held since 2015. Based in Sydney, she oversees Natixis' operations in Australia, leading a team that provides advisory, investment solutions, financing, and capital markets services to corporations, financial institutions, and sovereign organisations. Under Janie's leadership, Natixis CIB Australia has strengthened its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, building sustainable relationships with clients and expanding its market share. Her strategic vision and commitment to excellence have been key drivers of the company's success in a competitive financial landscape. Prior to her tenure at Natixis, Janie held senior roles at Westpac and Bank of America, bringing a wealth of experience in banking and finance to her current position. Her extensive background in the industry has equipped her with a deep understanding of the financial sector and the complexities of global markets. Janie is also a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She actively mentors young professionals and is committed to fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, integrity, and a client-centric approach, making her a respected figure in the Australian financial community.

Biologi est une marque australienne qui a redéfini les standards de la « clean beauty » à l'échelle mondiale, s'alignant sur la rigueur scientifique, la simplicité des ingrédients et le respect de l'environnement, des valeurs hautement prisées par le marché français. Audrey Gater, en tant que Directrice Générale, est la force motrice qui mène cette innovation skincare vers le marché français.

Le succès de Biologi repose sur une approche radicalement différente des soins de la peau, offrant des résultats inédits. L'innovation clé réside dans l'extraction de phyto-actifs (ingrédients actifs de plantes) 100 % purs, sans aucune dilution, modification chimique ou ajout d'additifs nocifs.

Ces sérums sont suralimentés en actifs phyto et micro-nutriments, ainsi qu'en minéraux, rendant chaque goutte plus efficace pour nourrir et protéger les cellules. Biologi nourrit ainsi les cellules en profondeur, positionnant la marque non seulement comme un succès commercial, mais comme un pionnier de la dermo-cosmétique axée sur la transparenceet la performance scientifique. Ce niveau de rigueur a rapidement conquis le marché australien, séduit par l'engagement de l'entreprise envers la pureté et l'efficacité produit.

L’ambition de Biologi, dirigée par Audrey Gater, a naturellement mené la marque vers la France. Le marché français, mondialement reconnu pour son exigence en matière de cosmétiques et ses standards pharmaceutiques, fait écho aux valeurs fondamentales de Biologi.

L'entrée de Biologi en France est une preuve tangible de la volonté de l'entreprise de renforcer les liens commerciaux et culturels entre nos deux nations. En obtenant la confiance des consommateurs français, Biologi démontre que l'innovation australienne, lorsqu'elle est basée sur une science irréprochable, peut non seulement rivaliser, mais exceller face aux marques européennes établies.

Biologi s’engage fermement à renforcer sa présence sur le territoire français. L'entreprise prévoit notamment de participer à des salons professionnels français majeurs dans le secteur de la beauté et du bien-être pour étendre l'empreinte de la marque en France. Cette approche proactive souligne la détermination d'Audrey Gater et de Biologi à créer une connexion durable entre l'innovation australienne et le marché français.

En reconnaissant Audrey Gater pour son leadership dans son expansion en France de Biologi, nous honorons une entreprise engagée à renforcer les liens bilatéraux. Biologi est, par sa réussite, un ambassadeur concret de cette alliance Franco-Australienne, incarnant la promesse de partenariats futurs et le renforcement des liens fondés sur la science, l'innovation et un engagement commun envers la qualité.