Our People
Konica Minolta Business Solutions Australia's managment team bring a wealth of printing industry experience to the successful stewardship of a dynamic, high achieving organisation. Together they provide the knowledge, vision and drive to shape the changing face of Konica Minolta and cement its position as a leader in the Australian printing industry.
Senior Managers
National Management Group
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Philip Archibald - National Alliance Manager
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Chaya Buhari - Information Systems Manager
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Shane Blandford - National Manager for National Accounts
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Eric Holtsmark - National Dealer Manager
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Diane Ingold - National Credit Manager
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Martin Keetels - National Commercial Counsel and National Bid Manager
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Anne Phibbs - National Manager for Government and Education Accounts
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David Vogt - Sales Manager, IT Channel
State Managers
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Michael Adair - South Australian State Manager
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Nanette Bak - Australia Capital Territory Manager
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Paul Dutch - New South Wales State Manager
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George Fryer - West Australian State Manager
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Derek MacMinn - Queensland State Manager
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John O'Sullivan - Victorian State Manager
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Hiro Kaji - Managing Director
As Managing Director, Hiro’s mission is to ensure that Konica Minolta Australia delivers innovative products and outstanding service to customers.
He first embarked on this challenge in 1980, when he joined Minolta in Japan having completed an economics degree at Waseda University in Tokyo. Hiro has since held various positions including manager of the OEM Department in Tokyo and Vice President of Canada.
Hiro joined Konica Minolta Australian three years ago. His approach to running the company is an emphasis on the abilities of his staff. “We are only as strong as our people, and we are very fortunate to have some extremely talented employees,” he says. “Working with experienced staff who are motivated to deliver excellent service is essential for creating customer satisfaction.”
Central to Hiro’s management style is a focus on innovation; one of Konica Minolta’s core values. “Perhaps the most important part of my role is keeping abreast of broader economic and industry trends; looking at issues affecting our clients and how we can deliver solutions.”
During the weekends Hiro pursues his personal passions including playing golf, sampling Australia’s wealth of international cuisine and perfecting Eric Clapton songs on his electric guitar.
David Cooke – Executive General Manager
Working for various organisations in the printing industry over the past 25 years has given David a clear perspective on what factors contribute to success.
In his view Konica Minolta’s strength lies in the company being “big enough to deliver, yet small enough to care”; a standpoint that drives his approach to business. “The more you look a customer in the eye, the more likely you are to care about that customer,” David says.
His key responsibilities at Konica Minolta are overseeing the sales and direct and dealer operations of the organisation.
For David the most enjoyable parts of this role are looking for growth opportunities and influencing change in a positive manner. “As an example, selling software forces us to become increasingly mature and sophisticated in the way we engage with our clients, and develop a far deeper level of understanding of their businesses. Software is not a solution unless you know what the problem is.”
This is a passion that drives him on a daily basis: “Becoming a tier one player in our industry is what gets me out of bed in the morning.”
Following his thesis, one of his published articles entitled Building Social Capital through Corporate Social Investment has been awarded the global Social Impact Award for 2011.
On the weekends he regularly visits his two children in Byron Bay.
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Tsubasa Fuji - Strategic Planning Manager
Tsubasa has over eleven years industry experience and worked for Konica Minolta Head Quarters in Japan until he relocated to Australia in 2008. Whilst based in Japan he was in charge of Sales Marketing Support for Korea and China.
In his current role, Tsubasa has responsibility for business planning at Konica Minolta, including budgeting, stock management and inbound process.
Tsubasa credits Konica Minolta’s advanced technology for its ability to stand out amongst its competitors: “We are committed to providing solutions and building relationships, whether with suppliers or partners, that enable us to deliver innovative products for our customers,” he says.
One of the aspects of his role that Tsubasa enjoys most is supporting new product launches; a key focus within his role. Over the next two years he aims to harness the company’s innovation to ensure that Konica Minolta continues to grow and achieve profitability.
When not planning the company’s future growth, Tsubasa enjoys the Australian pastime of watching AFL with a cold beer in hand. He also likes to play baseball.
David Procter – General Manager - Production Printing
With over 20 years industry experience David provides strong leadership and renewed energy to Konica Minolta’s senior management group.
Following a six year career with the firm, David now holds the role of General Manager Production Printing. As General Manager Production Printing, David provides partners and associates with direction and support as well as driving company growth in this key segment of our business.
Prior to this position, David held National Marketing Manager, product management and production specialist roles with Konica Minolta and is proud to be furthering his career with such a strong contender in the marketplace: “I have worked in this industry since 1986 and am pleased to be where I am now with Konica Minolta. We currently sit in the top four industry leaders due to our ability to be creative and flexible as a smaller organisation.”
Above all, David takes pleasure in turning ideas into reality, embracing new opportunities and change: “I am lucky to be part of such an exciting team. We witness innovation and growth on a daily basis and it is a great opportunity to be part of this.”
In his free time, David enjoys spending time with his family and renovating his home as well as continuing a strong interest in rugby union.
Martin Bowen – Human Resources Manager
Martin has more than twenty years human resources experience and has worked in a variety of industries, from shipping and industrial equipment, to IT services and government.
Since his appointment in 2006, Martin has been responsible for implementing organisational development programs aligned to the business objectives, with a particular focus on building the capability of Konica Minolta’s people.
“As Human Resources Manager, I’m tasked with recruiting the right people for the business and then developing them,” says Martin. “One of the most rewarding elements of my job is working closely with managers to review their workforce plans and ensure we have a strong organisational structure. Being a small department, we aren’t confined in what we do, and are constantly looking at how we can better support the business.”
One of the biggest challenges of Martin’s role is managing change: “Konica Minolta is agile. In an established marketplace we are still developing and this allows us some latitude to change. Despite market and economic ups and downs, organic growth has been one of the defining features of my time at the company. It is gratifying to see people progress in their roles and there are many success stories in that sense.”
In the next two years Martin aims to further establish Konica Minolta as a sought-after employer, and to continue to support its growth and evolution.
When not at work Martin’s priority is spending time with his wife and two daughters, though he tries to find some time to keep fit, as well as indulging his interest in rugby and cricket.
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Ivan Chang – General Manager - Finance
Ivan has almost 30 years of professional experience providing finance, treasury, tax and accounting support.
Joining the former company Minolta in 1994, Ivan saw both brands through the merger in 2003 and has been Financial Controller for Konica Minolta Australia for 15 years.
Though his responsibilities deal in ensuring annual growth, Ivan believes Konica Minolta’s strong focus on professional partnership is what drives him to continually deliver in his everyday work.
“Even after 30 years of dedicated work, the vision of Konica Minolta still inspires me. Our strong focus on building strategic business partnerships with like-minded brands such as Kodak ensures we are continuing to grow in the marketplace.” he says.
Ivan’s commitment to partnership is also evident in his passion for leadership; “The most enjoyable part of my job is supporting my staff to reach their full potential. It’s great to see people realise their goals.”
Outside of work Ivan has a passion for Japanese culture. “The embodiment of simplicity and complexity is what’s so impressive about this unique country.”
Ivan also enjoys Australian sports, the humble barbeque and food from his native Malaysia.
Michael Holroyd – General Manager - Service
Michael has been employed at Konica Minolta since 2000, and has held the position of National Service Manager since Dec 2006 and General Manager Service since April 2011.
Michael has a firm belief in Konica Minolta’s ability to “stand out amongst competitors, have an appealing product line and an ability to relate to customers.”
Michael is inspired by the innovative products Konica Minolta offers customers. “We are constantly designing new products and it is exciting to experience the leveraging of new technologies, and, the rapid rate at which both the technology and our products are progressing.”
Translating product innovations into an equally inspired level of service motivates Michael on a day-to-day basis: “I have a passion to deliver the best service possible. We are always seeking ways in which we can do things differently, and to adapt our service and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the evolution of technology,” he says.
Michael’s goal is to match and exceed the market leader in the next two years: “We operate in a mature industry, but our corporate market share is expanding. I am always eager to convert customers to Konica Minolta and increase our presence in the market.”
Michael enjoys playing golf and tennis, whilst also finding the time as a member to attend games of the Canterbury Bulldogs rugby league team.
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Graham Spoard – General Manager - Operations
Graham has over 20 years industry experience and has worked in a wide range of managerial roles throughout Europe, Russia, the Middle East, Africa and now Australia.
In his current position, which he has held since 2008, Graham is tasked with delivering process improvements to Konica Minolta operations. He is responsible for a wide range of business areas including customer administration, the Konica Minolta vendor finance programmes, Information Technology, logistics and facilities.
Graham’s drive is in making the company increasingly customer focused and productive: “What we have done well in the last 18 months is deliver an ever-improving ‘customer first’ mindset throughout the team which is fantastic.” Moving forward he has a particular focus on the opportunities offered by integrating digital technologies. “The excitement for me is harnessing the digital world at Konica Minolta and translating that potential into customer solutions,” he says.
On a day-to-day basis Graham is motivated by the variety of his job: “I love working with people and never get bored. Making documents ‘talk’ and getting more value out of them – that is what’s exciting about the industry.”
When not at work, Graham pursues his passion for international travel, and enjoys music and cooking for his family.
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Chaya Buhari - Information Systems Manager
Chaya has 15 years experience in IT and is responsible for technology within Konica Minolta. The scope of her role includes directing research on technology and implementing technological solutions to help Konica Minolta meet its business goals.
During her last three years at the company Chaya has overseen a range of innovative IT projects aimed at improving business processes, lowering operating costs and delivering performance improvements.
Chaya’s passionate approach to her role is inspired by her view that “Konica Minolta fosters bold thinking. We are encouraged to take on new projects that are exciting and challenging.”
Looking forward, Chaya believes that Konica Minolta’s focus on innovation is central to growth: “We are a technology company and we have to push the industry where we believe the future is heading. We are constantly innovating to sharpen up our competitive edge. My priority is to ensure that the company embraces technology today that will put us in a good position for the technological advances of tomorrow.”
Chaya’s personal interests include travelling the world, spending time with her family and socialising with friends.
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Shane Blandford – National Manager for National Accounts
Shane began his career by luck when he applied for a job as a photocopier engineer over 30 years ago. His passion for the industry has never been more evident since he joined Konica Minolta in 2009.
He is currently responsible for the sales development and growth of major accounts.
According to Shane what sets Konica Minolta apart is “the company’s commitment to delivering on client needs. If we don’t have the solution currently, we will make it our business to create it. Everyone from the Managing Director down shares this vision.”
Shane’s belief in innovation drives his approach to customer relationships. “Taking the time to understand market place developments and our clients’ shifting business challenges is crucial as technology changes all the time and our role is pivotal as an enabler of business solutions for our customers.”
Of equal importance to Shane is his strong sense of partnership with his team. “As much as I enjoy achieving myself, I get greater fulfillment from mentoring the sales team I work with, and inspiring them to achieve outstanding results.”
Outside of work Shane relaxes by spending time with his family, renovating or playing cricket (still!).
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Diane Ingold - National Credit Manager
Diane originally started her credit management career with a large printing organisation, followed by a five year stint in the music industry. She then returned to the printing industry in 2000 with Konica Minolta.
Diane says: “Even though I’ve been at Konica Minolta for a decade, my role is still fresh and challenging because the company is continually evolving. There is always so much to do and I love that each individual can make a difference. Konica Minolta is very responsive to new ideas and has a ‘can do’ attitude.”
Recently, Diane directed the implementation of a new payment facility. “At Konica Minolta innovation starts with the product, but is translated right through the service that customers’ experience,” she says.
Her other responsibilities include managing the full risk credit function on a national basis and supervising a team of fifteen credit staff. “To carry out our job effectively, developing a collaborative partnership with our customers is essential, and an area that we put a lot of emphasis on.”
Diane is a full member of the Australian Institute of Credit Management and is CCE qualified.
Martin Keetels - National Commercial Counsel and National Bid Manager
Marty holds the concurrent roles of National Commercial Counsel and National Bid Manager.
As National Commercial Counsel, Marty supports the business by providing ad hoc legal advice to management and undertaking contract and service level agreement negotiations. In fulfilling this role, he works closely with customers seeking to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. Whilst managing the National Bid Team, Marty is ultimately responsible for the submission of large corporate and government tenders. He has been closely involved in numerous large wins over the past three years.
In his position, Marty is well placed to understand what sets Konica Minolta apart from competitors: “I am continually impressed by our ability to customise solutions to our customers’ requirements. We have a well deserved reputation in the industry for being responsive to our customer’s business needs.”
Marty holds Bachelors Degrees in Arts and Laws (BA/LLB) from the University of Queensland, a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the College of Law and is due to complete a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from the Macquarie Graduate School of Management in March 2012.
Outside of work (and study), Marty enjoys combining his two passions: sport and travel.
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Anne Phibbs - National Manager for Government and Education Accounts
Anne has substantial experience in successfully managing large complex sales, bids and contracts through roles predominantly in the ICT sector over the last 20+ years.
Commencing as National Bid Manager with Konica Minolta in 2005 when the need for a more professional approach to responding to tenders was recognised, Anne was responsible for setting up the bid management function. This role evolved into overseeing sales operations, and then extended to ensuring the contractual commitments were met for Konica Minolta’s largest customers.
In 2010, Anne was appointed as National Manager for the Government and Education vertical market, and is now primarily responsible for formulating and executing the national strategy for the Government sector, with the aim of ensuring Konica Minolta has a presence on all Government procurement contracts.
Anne understands how important exceptional service is in meeting the needs of customers and considers there are two elements that differentiate Konica Minolta from its competitors – “our flexibility and the customer focus of our people”.
Viewing Konica Minolta’s relationship with customers as a partnership, Anne believes in the importance of a tailored approach: “We ensure that we thoroughly understand our customers’ requirements so that we can put forward a solution that fully meets their needs. Konica Minolta’s organisational flexibility enables us to do this. The fact that we’re growing suggests we’re doing the right things from a customer perspective”.
Anne says that the most enjoyable part of her job is “the opportunity to make a difference and improve our customers’ experience. Increasingly, this is through providing managed print services (MPS), where we manage customer's print environments to agreed service levels, taking away their administrative burden.”
Anne enjoys spending her free time with her family, is a cricket fan, and passionate follower of rugby union.
David Vogt – Sales Manager, IT Channel
David is responsible for managing Konica Minolta’s IT Channel Sales Team throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Bringing with him extensive industry and sales experience, David joined the Konica Minolta team in 2009.
David believes that “the company stands out because of its strong product line up, which is extremely reliable, produces excellent output and has low running costs.”
Core to his team’s success is building customer relationships, which David approaches with passion. “We see our partners as extensions of our business, working together to achieve similar goals. No two partners are the same – we endeavour to understand their motivations and working together formulate a sustainable strategy.”
David’s focus on partnership has inspired him to develop subject specialists within his team; enabling them to better understand and service the needs of customers, for example in the graphic design industry.
As a highly motivated individual, David is driven by the challenge of always striving to be the best in a challenging market: “We are always seeking a competitive advantage, whether it is through quality, service, engaging our customers or creative marketing campaigns.”
His goals are to continue building on the success of the division and to grow the size of the team to support this.
David enjoys spending time with his friends and family, and is an avid supporter of the St George Illawarra Dragons NRL team.
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Michael Adair – South Australian State Manager
Michael joined Konica Minolta in 2006 and has over 23 years industry experience behind him. As the South Australian State Manager he is responsible for working with the team on the ground to achieve revenue targets across all areas of the business and drive growth in the region.
From his observations he believes that Konica Minolta’s strength lies in the ability to make faster decisions than competitors. “Having a flatter management structure means that we have a quicker decision making process. This has enabled us to provide faster responses and solutions for our customers – setting us apart from competitors.”
In his role, Michael particularly enjoys spending time with customers, getting to understand their challenges and how Konica Minolta can assist them. As an ambitious individual he also draws job satisfaction from working with the team to ensure that they achieve revenue targets on a monthly basis.
On a day-to-day basis Michael is inspired by technological developments at Konica Minolta and the opportunity to continually work with new and innovative products.
When not working, Michael is a keen golfer, relishes spending time with his family and friends, and traveling to interesting destinations.
Nanette Bak – ACT Branch Manager
Nanette has spent the last 14 years of her 26 year printing industry career with Konica Minolta. In her current position Nanette is responsible for managing Konica Minolta’s sales team; ensuring targets are met and driving growth and efficiencies.
Nanette places a strong emphasis on the Konica Minolta values of partnership and innovation: “The team pride themselves on the many long standing partnerships that we have developed with clients. These range from large federal government departments to small commercial clients. By working closely with all customers we are able understand their businesses and provide flexibility by implementing a range of solutions which cater to their diverse needs.”
For Nanette, the most enjoyable part of her role is “the opportunity to meet people and talk about Konica Minolta’s solutions. I do my very best to promote these throughout our community. In the Canberra market referrals are a particularly important source of business and our strong community commitment is a significant opportunity to spread the word.”
Over the next two years, Nanette’s aim is to retain the current team and to continue providing outstanding service.
Outside the workplace, Nanette likes to relax by reading a good book or watching football, and also enjoys eating out with her family and friends.
John O'Sullivan - Victorian State Manager
John joined Konica Minolta in 2008, before which he spent 13 years at Canon Australia. In his role he manages branch sales, service and operations in Victoria.
John believes that innovation is core to the company’s growth. “Innovation has been a key ingredient in Konica Minolta’s success throughout its history. We are one of the most prolific inventors of professional imaging solutions. Whatever the product, our emphasis on quality as well as original technologies has earned us the trust of customers around the world,” he says.
On a daily basis, John’s approach to driving success is a focus on the capabilities of the team. “To expand our business we need to help our customers fulfil their goals. We can only achieve this through our team making genuine connections with our customers, providing expertise and advice, and delivering a superior customer experience. Our people don't just make the difference - they are the difference.”
John draws inspiration from the people he works with, both internally and from Konica Minolta’s customers. “We have great leadership and good camaraderie. The industry is dynamic which requires different skills and an ability to adapt to the ever changing environment in which we and our customers work.”
When not at work, John enjoys time spent with his family, as well as reading and travelling.
