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Our Team
In any business its all about the people
The competitive advantage of New Guardian lies in leveraging the diverse and experienced knowledge of its board and investment committee, whose backgrounds span startups, banking, finance, and global top 10 multinationals. Their ability to work as an agile and cohesive team enables the building of a portfolio of businesses that create wealth for all stakeholders.
Michael Schoch
Director - Chairman
Michael Schoch is an experienced energy industry professional with a distinguished career, having led the development of key energy infrastructure projects, start-up operations, and major commercial contracts.
His expertise encompasses the entire energy value chain, showcasing a thorough understanding of the industry. His experience includes:
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Acquiring retail entities in central and eastern Europe as part of Shell’s expansion into new markets shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall
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Leading the development of Shell V-Power, a new petrol product from the Geelong refinery that became the world’s leading retail fuel brand
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Marketing LNG to Japanese utilities on behalf of the six joint venture participants of the North West Shelf project
Most recently he's served as;​
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Vice President at LNG Canada
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Vice-President Production & General Manager Development for Shell Australia
Currently, he holds roles as:
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Non-Executive Director at Carers WA
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Advisory Board at ESG+F
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Advisor at Allington Advisory (family office)
Additionally, Michael was honored as the National Gender Diversity Champion at the 2017 Women in Resources Awards for his advocacy and support of gender diversity within the industry.
Michael is known for maintaining a cool head in high-pressure situations, offering considered and balanced advice.
Sean Johnstone
Director - Strategy & Performance
Sean Johnstone is experienced in all facets of business from SME’s to multinationals across many industries, sectors and regions. With solid foundations in Finance and Corporate Advisory, Sean has spent the past 15 years in hands-on active Director roles within growing and emerging companies. He is passionate about strategy, transformational growth, performance and business investments.
Most recently he's served as:
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Executive Manager – National Australia Bank
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Director - Price Waterhouse Coopers
Currently he holds roles as:
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Director – Oxygen Group
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Director – Swivelpole
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Director – BullAnt Security
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Director – Nexx Group
Sean is a critical thinker with a practical mindset and a hunger for business.
Daniel Rarp
Director - Business Transformation
Daniel is an experienced CEO having led businesses across a number of industries, following an initial career in corporate finance; specialising in M&A, debt advisory, valuation and due diligence engagements. He is passionate about working with teams to transform and grow businesses.
Most recently he's served as:
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CEO across private healthcare and disability services
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General Manager in a global manufacturing, sales and distribution business
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Corporate Finance Manager
Currently he holds roles as:
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Non-Executive Director - Spa Electrics
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Managing Director – Lighthouse Strategic Consulting
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Advisor – Oxygen Group
Daniel is a safe pair of hands and has a talent for identifying areas within a business that can be leveraged for growth.
Scott Douglas
Director - Executive General Manager
Scott Douglas is an experienced founder and CEO with experience across multiple industries from lifestyle brands to ASX listed mining and resources.
Most recently he's served as:
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Founder / MD - Running with Thieves
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Founder CEO / Chairman – Resource Generation Limited (ASX)
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Founder CEO / Chairman – Balkans Gold Limited (ASX)
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Founder / Director – Iron Clad Mining Limited (ASX)
Currently he holds roles as:
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Chairman – Satomi
Scott has significant experience across a diverse range of industries and knows how to get things done.
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