Our Speakers

Presentation: Keynote Presentation

Dr. Dickinson will deliver the opening keynote presentation for the summit.

Dr. Michelle Dickinson MNZM is a pioneering engineer and technology strategist whose career bridges science, engineering, and emerging technologies. Driven by a mission to make complex ideas accessible and engaging, she has become a global leader in translating cutting-edge innovation into concepts that inspire action.

Raised with a curiosity for how things work, Michelle went on to earn a PhD in Biomedical and Materials Engineering, specialising in advanced nanomechanical techniques. Her academic research spanned materials science and biomedical engineering, producing an extensive body of published work.

Michelle's career has seen her advising some of the world's largest technology companies on nanotechnology and guiding them through the rapidly evolving landscapes of AI, quantum computing, and sustainable technology. She has held influential roles across academia and industry, including her ongoing position as an honorary academic in engineering at the University of Auckland.

As co-founder of Nanogirl Labs, she built innovative STEM education programmes that reached global audiences, before founding Matter Workshop, where she continues to champion creative approaches to STEM learning and corporate technology training. She also serves as an Honorary Wing Commander in the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

Beyond her technical expertise, Michelle is an accomplished author of bestselling science books, a creator and host of award-winning television series, and the voice behind top-charting science podcasts. Her ability to connect science to everyday life has made her a familiar presence in media and a trusted voice in public science communication.

Michelle's contributions have been recognised with numerous awards, including the Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to science communication, the Sir Peter Blake Leadership Award, the Prime Minister's Science Media Communication Prize, and the Women of Influence Award for Science & Innovation.

Presentation: Predator Free New Zealand 2050 - What have we Learned over the Past Decade?

My talk will be a candid overview of a decade of research in the ambitious Predator Free New Zealand 2050 programme. I will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly, with some glimmers of hope and shaky predictions regarding what comes next.

My research (over the past 20 years) has focused on the sustained control of introduced mammalian pests in New Zealand. At Lincoln University, I am currently a Professor of Wildlife Management and a Co-Director of the Centre of Wildlife Management and Conservation. I am also the coordinator for the Master of Bioprotection and the Master of International Nature Conservation programmes. Outside Lincoln University, I was the “Improved Toxins and New Devices” champion in the National Science Challenge (Biological Heritage). I am currently on the Taranaki Mounga, Zero Invasive Predators, and Pest Free Banks Peninsula Technical Advisory Groups.

Presentation: It Matters What and How Dinner is Served

It Matters What and How Dinner is Served - Bait and Bait Presentation

Partho Dhang, earned his Ph.D. from university of Madras in India. He is a zoologist, entomologist, consultant, editor, author and entrepreneur. He is a prolific writer in scientific world and also a regular speaker in international conferences around the world. He has written and edited six (6) books, all published with CABI. He also serves as an adjudicator for award of the degree of doctorate for number of universities. Presently he lives in the Philippines and India.

Presentation: Next Generation Pest Trapping and Surveillance

An overview of some of the emerging tools and technologies being developed for real-time remote pest detection and control.

Helen holds a PhD in Environmental Science and has over 25 years' experience in the ecology and biosecurity sectors, with a focus on the development of new pest control and surveillance tools. Helen is the co-founder and research lead of the tech start-up Critter Solutions Ltd, which is focused on bringing new tools and technologies from inception through to commercialisation.

Helen has extensive experience leading teams of experts in engineering, creative design, animal behaviour, toxicology and ecology to create innovative technologies. Over the last ten years a primary focus of this research has been in the development of ‘edge' AI pest surveillance and control systems (including species specific resetting traps), long-lasting lures and attractants, lure delivery systems and communications technologies. She currently leads multiple research projects funded by the New Zealand government, international universities and multi-national pest control companies.

Presentation 1: Mosquitoes – Considerations for Control

Presentation 2: Stick to the Basics: Biology and Behaviour First

Gene will look at IPM strategies from projects he has worked and how he has built-up award-winning programs by using natural biology and behaviour against the target species. He will provide a proven strategy for determining the likelihood of success on an eradication and may just show some failures that others have used.

Dr Gene Browne is a medical entomologist with a primary focus on mosquitoes. Gene has run various teams nationally and internationally either undertaking biosecurity research, large scale surveillance programs, or technically challenging control and eradication programs. From mosquito beginnings he has also branched out into chironomid midge control, ant surveillance and control, helped develop the international award-winning Sea Container Hygiene System, and has even been roped in on resolving applied chemical research when biosecurity agencies have come calling. Having moved from academia to working at the coal face at Flybusters, he now focuses on core programmes for his own company Bioscientific Solutions Ltd.

Presentation 1: Bed Bugs - What we have Learnt

Looking back at our experience with bed bugs over the last 25 years.

Presentation 2: Interesting Pests Emerging Trends

Highlights of some recent pest issues and trends that were a little out of the ordinary.

David Lilly is a Staff Scientist with Ecolab Pest Elimination - Global RD&E, and is based out of Australia. In this role he is responsible for providing strategic direction to new pest management innovations and solutions across the Asia Pacific and Greater China regions. He has over 20 years' experience in urban pest management, including both in the auditing and development of commercial pest management solutions, and providing qualified technical support to high-needs customers. David has extensive experience with many aspects of commercial pest management, including specialized knowledge in the field of filth and fermentation flies, ants, rodents, stored product insects, bed bugs, insecticides, and insecticide resistance. David holds a PhD from the University of Sydney, a Master of Entomology from the University of Queensland, and a Bachelor of Science (Hons) from the University of NSW.

Presentation 1: Ant Biology – When the Exceptions Rule

Exploring the weird, wonderful, and wildly inconsistent world of ant biology, behaviour and bait effectiveness.

Presentation 2: Itching for Answers: When the Pests Aren't Really There

A light-hearted but serious dive into “Illusions of Parasitosis”, one of pest control's trickiest “non-infestations” where the evidence is missing, but the itch is very real!

Paul has extensive experience in commercial, residential, and environmental pest management, having worked with the Auckland Regional Council, Department of Conservation, Flybusters/Antiants and Rentokil Initial over the past 20 years.

Paul has held operational management roles for over 8 years managing a team of pest control technicians, providing technical support and training and was the scientific specialist for a range of biosecurity and large-scale pest control projects in New Zealand and the Pacific region, including ants, mosquitoes, flies and other pests.

Presentation: When Heat Meets Chemistry: Temperature-Driven Shifts in Ceiling-Spray Efficacy Against Musca domestica

"From cool rooms to hot sheds, temperature can make or break a spray's performance. This talk explores an experiment testing how different temperatures change the speed and effectiveness of ceiling-applied insecticides against adult houseflies.”

India is an R&D scientist at Renovo Technologies in Taranaki, New Zealand, where she conducts research developing products tailored for the New Zealand and Australian pest control markets. Her work focuses on efficacy testing, residue assessments, and evaluating adverse effects on off-target organisms. India has been key in the development of several commercial pest control products, comprising of several industry-first chemistries in Australasia.

Presentation: Somersaults, Suicide and The Unpleasant Smell of Success: Developing a Pheromone Tool for the Eradication of Redback Spiders in New Zealand

Australian redback spiders are in New Zealand, they're causing problems and can get worse, but their interesting biology might be the key to controlling them.

Cor's research primarily focuses on spiders and their evolution and diversity. He specialises in the systematics and taxonomy of the New Zealand fauna; the description of new species and examining their relationships using molecular methods. Cor also conducts research on spider ecology (in natural environments and agroecosystems), the conservation of New Zealand terrestrial arthropods and invasive species ecology. He is especially interested in the origin of New Zealand's large, endemic spider and insect fauna and is the currently the President of the Entomological society of New Zealand.

Presentation: Coaching and Mentoring the Client to Future Proof Pest Control

Using various techniques and methods to help your client 'think' pest control and assist you in managing their pest control.

Stephen's formative years were completing post graduate environmental studies and working in analytical laboratories for the Irish Dairy Industry. He moved to New Zealand in 1994. Commencing with laboratory work for Tegal, he progressed to leading roles in verification of laboratories, fumigations, export/import biosecurity compliance and food safety. This included a test certification delegated role under the HSNO Act. Stephen is a co-founder of IVS which is a leading MPI approved independent verification agency. For the last 10 years, Stephen has been with Quality Auditing Specialists as a registered Verifier under the Food and Wine Acts. A significant function of this role is coaching and mentoring.

Presentation: Hotter, Wetter, Buggier: New Horizons

"A concise overview of how climate, environmental, and societal shifts are driving rapid change in the pest control industry— creating new challenges, expanding pest ranges, and opening fresh opportunities for growth and adaptation.”

Steve Broadbent holds an Honours degree in Applied Biology, majoring in Ecology and Biocide Science. He began his career as a Research Scientist with the British Government, working first with nematodes and cestodes before moving up the evolutionary ladder to insects.

Not content with just wrangling invertebrates, Steve later completed graduate studies in Marketing at the University of Technology - Sydney and a Management Diploma at the University of Melbourne. These qualifications have helped him navigate a career spanning more than 45 years, leading to his current role as Ensystex's Regional Director for Australia, Southeast Asia, Southern Africa, and the Arabian Gulf Region.

Along the way, he's authored peer-reviewed scientific papers, contributed to technical books, and provided consultancy on projects ranging from rodent control in the Galapagos Islands, to termite management at the Sydney Olympic Village and Temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and turtle conservation in Malaysia — proof that good science, driven by curiosity, can lead to some of the most rewarding experiences.

A regular speaker at industry conferences across five continents, Steve combines technical expertise with practical insight — and occasionally turns his hand to other pursuits, including authoring the best-selling book Your Sacred Path and indulging his passions for wildlife photography and horse-riding.

Presentation: Modes Of Action: What Makes Insecticides Work Individually and Together

A visual and easily understood explanation of modes of action that won't rely on cryptic terms such as “Uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation via disruption of proton gradient”.

Mark is the founder and Managing Director for Renovo Technologies Ltd, a chemical R&D and manufacturing company that specialises in developing custom high performing products for specific industries, with a focus on increasing sustainable content and reducing hazards where possible.

Mark holds a BSc(hons) in Chemistry from the University of Canterbury with his honours thesis on potential cytotoxic compounds from marine organisms. He has over 30 years' experience as an analytical and formulations chemist in dairy, paints, agricultural chemicals and professional pest control industries. Mark has developed and commercialised more than 50 formulations throughout his career and still continues to develop formulations alongside managing Renovo Technologies. A number of his formulations are considered class leading in the industry and have generated a wide following amongst professionals in New Zealand and Australia.

Presentation: Digital Innovations in Pest Management (TBC)

Further details about this presentation will be announced soon.

Mr Junichiro Katayama is a president of Semco Co., Ltd., the leading distributor of professional pest management products. Semco has been concentrating on the innovating an artificial intelligence-based pest monitoring system which will potentially change the way of pest management strategy. He graduated from Kyoto University (BA in Law) in Japan and the University of Cambridge (MPhil in Economics) in UK. He is an Honorary President of Federation of Asia and Oceania Pest Managers Association (FAOPMA) and served as a Board of Director for more than 10 years.

Presentation: The Future of Bird Control

"The Future of Bird Control” explores innovative, welfare-conscious approaches to urban bird management, reviewing the latest deterrent and exclusion technologies for sensitive sites while addressing the ongoing challenges of sustainable, long-term population control.

Peter McCarthy is the Company Director and founder of PestIT Pty Ltd, an Australian innovator in humane bird and pest management technologies. With over 35 years of industry leadership, Peter has been instrumental in developing and introducing advanced deterrent and exclusion systems through PestIT's AvePro, Viper and Magnet Trap brands. His work bridges the gap between urban bird management and animal welfare, focusing on solutions that are effective, ethical, and sustainable. His focus on bird management training spans over two decades with the provision of “on-site” training of bird management professionals throughout Australasia demonstrating and leading installations with Australia's and New Zealand's leading bird management companies.

An advocate for integrated pest management and technology-driven solutions, Peter's experience spans architectural, commercial, and heritage applications, providing expertise to sectors including government, construction, food production, facilities maintenance, and utilities. Under his direction, PestIT has become a trusted partner to professional pest managers and facility operators across Australia and New Zealand, delivering innovative systems for long-term nuisance bird control.

Peter is a frequent speaker at international pest management conferences, sharing insights into the future of bird control, the balance between control and welfare, and the role of emerging technologies in shaping urban bird management.

Presentation: Wasps

Presentation abstract coming soon.

David Priddy is an internationally recognised business strategist and chemical industry specialist with more than 36 years of experience across Australia and overseas markets. He is a highly sought-after speaker known for his practical insights into Strategic Marketing, Customer Relationship Management, Integrated Marketing, Brand Stewardship, Benchmarking, and Innovation Modelling.

David holds a Bachelor of Commerce with a double major in Marketing and Information Systems from Griffith University (1989). His career began in senior management within the electrical wholesale sector, where he revitalised underperforming outlets through dynamic sales strategies and the strategic development of new business models.

In the mid-1990s David transitioned into the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector with global leader SC Johnson & Son. There he delivered transformative insights into sales processes and merchandising, driving substantial uplift in previously untapped revenue streams.

By the late 1990s, David joined Bayer—one of the world's largest life-science companies—to further his marketing career. He developed and executed strategies across key segments including Crop Protection, Consumer Home Garden, Rural Hygiene, Intensive Farming, and Professional Pest Management. His work drew on both Australian and international business models and contributed significantly to gains in market share and profitability.

David is also one of a select group of Australian business managers trained in Smart Innova Systems through Systematic Inventive Thinking (SIT) in Lyon, France. He later achieved accreditation in the Solve Your Impossible Problem Program from Gordian Business, strengthening his expertise in structured innovation and problem-solving methodologies.

In 2009, David founded Sundew Solutions, now a leading research and development company developing world-class pest management technologies. Since 2011, Sundew has supplied innovative solutions to professional pest managers across Australia and international markets.

David is a regular contributor to the Australian Professional Pest Manager magazine and the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association eNewsletter. He presents widely on marketing strategy, business development, and advanced formulation technologies for the global pest management industry.

Presentation: Smarter Pest Management for a Warmer World. Low-Footprint Practices and Sustainable System Design for Daily Operations

Climate change is reshaping pest activity across Asia-Pacific, creating longer pressure periods, faster rebounds, and more unpredictable outbreaks. This session examines what these shifts mean on the ground and how pest management teams can redesign daily operations using low-footprint methods and sustainable system design to achieve stronger, more consistent control.
The session will look at how to read early pressure signals, time interventions around climate triggers, and choose cleaner tools that reduce chemical load, minimize rework, and cut operational costs. It also shows how simple AI-supported insights and sustainability discipline can streamline routes, reduce waste, and improve field efficiency.
A practical, field-ready roadmap for building service models that perform better, cost less, and maintain operational quality despite today’s challenges.

Sathes Raamachandran is the CEO of Pesterminators Pvt Ltd - Maldives and Pesterminator Ceylon Pvt Ltd – Sri Lanka, leading the region’s most sustainability focused pest management organization. He serves on the Executive Board of the Global Pest Management Coalition (GPMC) and as a Special Expert member in the board of FAOPMA, contributing to international initiatives on public health, climate adaptation, and professional standards.

With more than decade of operational and leadership experience across Asia, and Middle East, Sathes works closely with government agencies, public health authorities, academic researchers, and global partners to design climate aware pest and vector management systems. His expertise spans biological control strategies, climate driven pest behavior, predictive risk modelling, digital monitoring approaches, and the integration of sustainability and carbon discipline into daily operations.

Sathes has trained over 1,000 pest management professionals across multiple countries and frequently speaks at global industry platforms including FAOPMA, and various regional associations. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of Madras and an MBA from the University of Wales, UK. He is also a BRCGS Certified Lead Auditor, which strengthens his work in risk management, process development, and compliance. This combination of scientific training, management experience, and field practice guides his approach to building practical systems that work in real operating conditions.