About Us
The role of Sampano is to establish a coordinated local value chain, providing opportunities for growers and processors to participate in the local nutraceutical value chain. To provide support and information and to create direct access to Australian and export markets.
Sampano is a participant in the Fight Food Waste CRC and is a founding member of NSIP, the Nutraceutical Science & Innovation Project, along with CSIRO and Swisse Wellness.
The Team
Adrian Spencer
Commencing in the Agriculture sector in NE Victoria in 1992, Adrian has first hand experience in growing, harvesting and processing for local and export markets, across chestnuts, berries, cherries, apples and stone fruit. Following this, Adrian worked around Australia as a Geologist and then within the Taxation advisory division of Ernst & Young for 6 years, in Melbourne, in particular, supporting Research & Development companies. Since 2006 Adrian has established multiple companies, working with Industry to secure over $500 million in funding for innovation and expansion projects all around Australia, including the Agriculture and Manufacture sectors. Having established deep value chain contacts (and clients) as well as government, research and community links, Adrian launched Sampano in late 2016.
Tony Kent
Tony Kent is one of Australia’s most experience agronomists, with over 45 years’ experience in agronomy science research, education, on farm experience, farm economics and crop variety expertise. Prior to his current role, Tony served on the Grains Research & Development Board, Director Quality Wheat CRC, GM for Long Reach Plant Breeders and AWB Research Manager. Tony assists in the practical coordination of growers, as well as advising industry on best practice for growing and the commercial approach.
Peter McLean
Peter McLean specialises in strategic alliance building and strategy formulation. Peter previously held a national Governmental role in supporting regional innovation through facilitation, strategic alliance building, organizational network analysis, community engagement and stakeholder relationship management. This led to the formation of strategic alliances in supply chains throughout Australia across a range of industry sectors including agriculture, natural resources, aged care and food producers. Peter’s strengths lie in his commitment to collaboration as the means of building new value, innovation, productivity and economic prosperity both in business and the broader community in regional areas.