Our People

Mark Stone AM runs a business advisory company, and is a Non-Executive Director/Chairman. Mark was Chief Executive of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for over eight years, the peak body for business in Victoria. During this time, Mark developed a reputation as a leader in the Australian business community and was regularly consulted for business-related advice and commentary.

Previously, Mark was Chief Executive of Parks Victoria for 12 years. During this period, Mark identified, negotiated and secured large-scale tourism development opportunities for the State of Victoria, as well as highly successful major events, at the same time ensuring the protection of the natural environment. Mark lead and developed Parks Victoria from a State-based and State-focused entity to one with national and international stature. The complexity and diversity of this organisation required strong leadership and management of multi-disciplinary staff, including 800 professional bush firefighters. He has extensive knowledge of regional issues, having lived and worked in many parts of the State.

Mark was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2016 for "significant service to commerce and industry through leadership roles, to the environment and tourism sectors, and to the community."

His other roles included Member of the Premier’s Jobs and Investment Panel, Co-Chair of the Victorian Aboriginal Economic Board, Board Member of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, CEO of Tourism Victoria, and Board Member of Tourism Australia.

Mark is currently Chairman of SCT Logistics, Chairman of Goulburn Valley Water, a member of the Premier’s Special Advisory Council for Bushfire Recovery Victoria, and is an Advisory Board Member of Delaware North (Australia).

Melissa has worked in the philanthropic sector for the last 12 years. She is Chair of her parents Foundation which was started over a decade ago. In her role as Chair, Melissa has been developing strategic vision and mission for the Foundation as well as building close, collaborative, and transparent relationships with For Purpose organisations who share the Legacy’s vision.

Melissa is passionate about contributing to social change with a focus on homelessness and food security, youth empowerment and Indigenous advancement. In addition to her role as Chair Melissa runs her own family Foundation with her husband and two children which focuses on early intervention support for disadvantaged youth and the issues of climate change with a strong focus on advocacy and policy change.

Aside from her work in philanthropy Melissa has a background in Marketing and was Marketing Director for Iconic fashion brands. She is currently a Member of Philanthropy Australia and Australian Environmental Grantmakers Network and has a Bachelor Business (Marketing) and Bachelor Arts (Psychology).

Lisa Barron OAM is one of Australia's most respected fashion designers, having built the Lisa Barron label into a nationally recognised Australian fashion brand while remaining committed to local manufacturing and supporting the Australian fashion industry.

A passionate advocate for mentoring and developing emerging talent, Lisa has created opportunities for young creatives through internships, industry partnerships and ongoing mentorship. She strongly believes in the power of early intervention, guidance and opportunity to help young people reach their full potential.

Lisa's leadership extends across government, industry and not-for-profit sectors. She has served on numerous advisory boards and committees, including Creative Victoria's Creative Industries Advisory Group, the Victorian Manufacturing Council, The Premiers Business Council and the Federal Minister for Women's Advisory Panel. She is also a founding member of the International Women's Forum Australia and has supported charitable organisations focused on improving outcomes for women and families.

In 2022, Lisa was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her services to the fashion industry. Lisa is proud to support Youth Activating Youth and its mission to empower disadvantaged young people through connection, mentorship and positive pathways for the future.

Ali Ahmed is a qualified counsellor with a Bachelor of Counselling (psychotherapy) from the Australian College of Applied Psychology. He has significant experience within the public sector with a special focus on supporting and advocating for disadvantaged youth across some of Melbourne’s most marginalised communities.

Ali believes there is a lack of opportunity for multicultural youth to access education, employment opportunities and services due to cultural differences which undoubtedly hampers their ability to integrate into mainstream society. Ali is committed to giving a voice to young people who do not feel heard.

Peter is a recognised leader with broad experience across government and public sectors, retail and consumer markets, infrastructure, and technology.

Peter works closely with clients to drive growth and identify market opportunities, bringing a highly collaborative approach to complex problem solving and value creation.

Peter currently serves on the boards of Entertainment Assist and Committee for Melbourne.