We bring courage, determination, integrity and most importantly, action in the fight for a smart energy future.
John Grimes
Chief Executive
Bio
John Grimes was appointed Chief Executive in 2008, and has grown the profile and influence of the Smart Energy Council since that time.
John is a bold advocate for the smart energy industry and sits on a number of expert reference committees and boards providing advice to several state governments and the energy sector.
John started his career as an officer in the Air Force and went on to found and grow a number of companies, including a startup company he took to a successful listing on the ASX with a market capitalisation in excess of $30m.
His most recent company was in the environmental sector with operations in Australia, the US and the Middle East.
John has a passion for the solar, storage and the smart energy industry. He is regularly called upon by the media to provide relevant and independent comment in these areas.
Sharon Turner
Chief Finance Officer
Bio
Sharon is the Financial Controller and maintains all financial aspects for the Smart Energy Council.
With a diploma in Accounting, Sharon has worked over the last 20 years looking after the finances of various small businesses and has held a series of managerial jobs.
With a strong background in accounting, extensive budgeting, auditing and financial management knowledge.
Having joined the team in July 2014 she began by running our Solar 2015 Exhibition & Conference and continues to contribute to various areas of the council.
Sharon has a passion for all aspects of finance and is recognised for her fantastic organisational skills.
David McElrea
Chief Advocacy Officer
Bio
David McElrea joined the Smart Energy Council as Chief Advocacy Officer from July 2025.
David is a senior government relations and policy strategist with a strong track record in climate policy, environmental reform, and renewable energy advocacy.
As Deputy Chief of Staff to the Australian Minister for the Environment and Water, David led major policy initiatives including the regulation of federal environmental laws, implementation of nature markets, and the development of emissions and water policy.
His role involved extensive engagement with the renewable energy sector and he played a key role in navigating contentious legislation through Parliament. David has a deep understanding of the regulatory and political environment that shapes Australia’s clean energy transition.
David brings a unique blend of experience across government, industry bodies, and the not-for-profit sector.
He has held senior roles with the Australian Institute of Company Directors and United Voice, where he developed national advocacy campaigns, regulatory submissions, and stakeholder engagement strategies.
He has extensive experience managing communications across diverse constituencies, from federal agencies and state governments to industry associations, climate advocates, and the union movement.
David has worked directly with energy operators, environmental NGOs, and government departments, and understands how to coordinate coalitions, shape public debate, and influence reform.
David previously worked as a lawyer in Australia and the UK. With qualifications in law, arts, finance, and corporate governance, David combines technical proficiency with a strategic, values-driven approach. He is passionate about the renewable energy transition as the defining economic and social transformation of our time, and brings proven expertise in member-based organisations, campaign design, regulatory strategy, and media communications.
David is committed to supporting a credible, inclusive, and ambitious path to net zero—one that aligns environmental imperatives with industry innovation and community support.
Geoff Bragg
Training & Standards
Bio
As a solar industry participant for around 20 years, Geoff Bragg brings practical, technical, boots on the ground knowledge of the PV industry, together with high level PV industry representation.
As a trainer Geoff creates and delivers Continuous Professional Development training, enabling solar installers and designers to gain CPD points and remain accredited.
As a member of Standards Australia’s EL-42 renewable technology committee Geoff has have contributed to the development of recent editions of AS/NZS 4777.2 2020, and AS/NZS 5033 2021, covering Inverters connected to grid, and solar PV arrays in Australia.
Geoff also operates a small business, Sunman Solar Pty Ltd, that provides bespoke PV and energy storage systems, both on and off-grid in the Northern Tablelands district of NSW.
Will Carr
Projects & Business Development Manager - Asia-Pacific
Bio
Ivan Chelvathurai
Business Development Manager
Events
Bio
After a stint in Business Advisory at RSM, Ivan ventured into the renewables industry in 2021, and hasn’t looked back since. He specialised in renewable energy certificates, but enjoyed making connections and learning the ins and outs of the fast growing renewables sector.
Outside of work, Ivan is unfortunate enough to follow St Kilda Football Club, loves cricket and enjoys fishing and cooking.
Charlie Caruso
General Manager
Western Australia
Bio
Charlie Caruso joined the Smart Energy Council in January 2025 as the General Manager for Western Australia, bringing a forward-thinking approach and a passion for technology and positive disruption. Renowned for her ability to drive growth and foster meaningful collaboration, Charlie has consistently delivered impactful results across industries.
Charlie holds a Master of International Law and a Master of International Relations from the University of Western Australia, as well as an undergraduate degree in International Business with a minor in Chinese Business from Murdoch University. Her academic background complements her professional achievements, particularly in the renewable and clean energy sectors, where she has contributed to several high-profile projects at both state and national levels.
A strong advocate for innovation, Charlie has a history of funding and mentoring early-stage ventures, reflecting her commitment to nurturing emerging talent. She also briefly volunteered for Minderoo’s #NoPlasticWaste initiative and served as Head of Global Growth for the blockchain-based democracy platform MiVote, further demonstrating her dedication to creating meaningful change.
Charlie’s expertise in entrepreneurship, leadership, and the intersection of technology and sustainability has made her a sought-after speaker at conferences across Australia. Outside of her professional endeavors, Charlie is a devoted bibliophile with a deep appreciation for knowledge and storytelling.
Robyn Cowie
Stewardship Program Manager
Bio
Robyn has joined the Smart Energy Council to help impact sustainability at scale. With 15 years of experience in product innovation, strategy, and transformation, she has founded and led two funded SaaS analytics startups. Robyn has a strong track record in leading businesses, expanding scaleups, and achieving results in large corporate settings. She loves innovation and understanding market behaviour to drive customer actions. Her strengths include a passion for learning and change, empowering teams, and adapting to generate sustainable growth.
Outside of work, Robyn enjoys playing volleyball, kickboxing, and going on bike rides with her husband and daughter. If you chat with her, you’ll likely discuss her interests in books, food, and new experiences.
Yuan Fang
China Sales Manager
Bio
Yuan Fang is assisting Chinese companies to enter the Australian smart energy market successfully, then continue to grow market share.
Yuan brings with her several years of marketing experience in the solar and energy storage industry.
This makes her well placed to advise Chinese companies. She also has access to key reports and local industry intelligence she can share.
Yuan has a passion for the smart energy industry.
She is a dynamic and results-driven professional with a highly successful background in marketing, management, and new business development.
She remains focussed on exceeding customer service expectations, ensuring optimum brand impact.
Marcela Ferrer
Administration Officer
Bio
Marcela has been working at the company since December 2023 as an administrative assistant.
With a degree in Sociology and a master’s in Climate Change and Environmental Management, she has successfully bridged her two passions: studying society and protecting the environment.
Marcela has dedicated her efforts to the field of environmental conflicts in Argentina, where she has further cultivated her passion for environmental conservation.
She strongly believes in the transition to a more sustainable and responsible society, particularly through the use of renewable energy, underscoring her deep commitment to the cause.
Jessica Hampshire
Member Relationship Manager
Bio
Jess joins the Smart Energy Council with a wealth of experience in customer relationship management and a strong background in the health and wellness sector. With an MBA and qualifications in Entrepreneurship, she enjoys putting into practice her knowledge and skills and finding pathways for growth. Passionate about fostering sustainable practices and promoting environmental stewardship, Jess is dedicated to contributing to the advancement of smart energy solutions in Australia.
In her down time, Jess also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, watching sci-fi movies, and telling lame ‘Dad’ jokes to annoy her children.
Darren Johannesen
Executive General Manager - Sustainability
Bio
Darren Johannesen, is a senior product stewardship executive who brings a wealth of expertise to the SEC in the Circular Economy He has a background as an entrepreneur, with direct experience in Solar Cell and Module Manufacturing, and Consumer Energy (Small Scale Solar) Retail.
Backed by postgraduate studies in Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Strategic Foresight, Darren brings a down-to-earth perspective to environmental challenges, aiming for solutions that make sense for both businesses and the planet.
Husna Banu Karrur
Administration Officer
Bio
A highly organised and detail-oriented professional, Husna leverages her MBA in Finance and 10+ years of administrative experience to ensure seamless operations. Husna is customer-focused, time-efficient, and adept at collaborative problem-solving. Her expertise spans data entry, scheduling, and customer service. Husna is passionate about continental cooking and enjoys discovering new recipes.
Ria Kelleher
Event Director
Bio
Ria started at the SEC in April 2022 and has stepped into the role of Event Director.
Originally from the UK, Ria has worked in events for nearly 15 years in a multitude of different industries. Most recently Ria has worked at Gartner and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
With a keen eye for detail and a love of problem solving, Ria thrives in a customer focused environment, ensuring events run seamlessly.
In her spare time, Ria loves to go on hikes and to the beach and being a keen traveller, loves to travel overseas whenever possible.
Tim Lamacraft
Media Relations Manager
Bio
Tim has spent decades living in, and reporting from, Australia’s most intensive resource and energy producing regions.
As a producer, researcher and investigative journalist for the ABC, The Age and The Project, he’s been at the heart of debate over the nations fossil fuel legacy and new energy future.
At the Smart Energy Council, Tim is committed to helping communicate solutions on how to fix the climate crisis, from some of the nations brightest minds and creative thinkers.
Alistair McGrath-Kerr
Sales Manager
Bio
Alistair McGrath-Kerr joined the smart energy council in August 2021 as Sales Manager. With a long held passion to support Australia’s transition to renewable energy, he is moving into this role excited about the possibilities to drive industry change.
Alistair’s first experience with renewable energy was a toy solar powered car at age 7, and the switch was flicked – that excitement has driven him ever since. It led him to a Masters Degree in Engineering Management with a thesis in residential battery storage and a Design and Install Off Grid CEC Accreditation, as well as certificates in Passive House Building design.
Before the Smart Energy Council, Alistair has worked for a variety of small to medium sized solar companies, energy efficient and passive house building consultants.
An optimistic people-person, Alistair is ready to share his excitement for all things smart, efficient and digital with you. Be careful – if you ask, Alistair will chat with you about family-friendly electric bikes, his permaculture garden or perfecting sourdough baking.
Elvira Pan
Marketing Manager - Events and Operations
Bio
Elvira Pan joined the Smart Energy Council in October 2022.
Her passion for digital value and sustainability has driven her to utilise a growth mindset and marketing experience to promote the visibility and awareness of sustainable development and smart energy solutions.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, International Business and Trade, and a master’s degree in Marketing and Organisational Sustainability. She brings a sense of business operations and strength in the marketing area combined with her work and life experience in America, Australia, and China.
As a continuous learner with high consistency, responsibility, and problem-solving, whether she’s providing administrative support or executing a project, she can be counted on to deliver. She takes pride in being an honest, genuine, reliable, and compassionate individual, and receiving positive accolades from people with whom she has associated.
Mukesh Nayak
Senior Marketing & Communications
Bio
Over the years, he’s worked on pharmaceutical product launches, started India’s first physiotherapy magazine, ran his own ad agency, worked in home healthcare and medical devices, launched a global market research platform and taken on consulting projects in healthcare and life sciences.
He has delivered marketing campaigns across print, digital, radio, cinema and more. He’s also managed websites and social media, worked with the media to secure coverage and drive PR and managed everything from small community events to large-scale national and international conferences & expos. He also dabbles in video editing, nothing fancy, but good enough to get the job done when needed.
Mukesh is adept at using tools like Adobe, Canva, WordPress, CRMs & Marketing Automation tools, Google and Meta ads etc and enjoys blending creativity with practical thinking in his work.
He kicked off his learning journey with an engineering degree, followed it up with an MBA in marketing, and has recently added a Diploma in Leadership & Management to the list. Right now, he’s studying Project Management at CIT, because he reckons learning should never really stop.
When he’s not working, you’ll likely find Mukesh spending quality time with his family, travelling & exploring new places, or running around a hockey field or squash court.
Fun fact: he plays both squash and hockey every week and insists it’s his secret to staying energised, though his muscles sometimes disagree on Monday mornings.
Connor Price
Policy Officer
Bio
Connor has been working at the Smart Energy Council since January 2024 as a policy officer, after previously working as a management consultant for federal, state and territory departments.
Connor completed a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Economics and Business Law at UWA and is currently undertaking a Diploma in Project Management at CIT.
Combining his studies with experience in the agile and fast-paced world of consulting, Connor supports the Smart Energy Council’s Advocacy team by providing assistance across a broad array of matters in a surge capacity.
He is passionate about assisting industry to ensure an effective and efficient transition to clean energy solutions in Australia and globally whilst ensuring sustainable biodiversity of the environment.
Stephen Smedley
IT Officer
Bio
Stephen began working as an IT Officer with the Smart Energy Council in December 2023. Stephen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a Minor in Marketing Communications from Torrens University, in Brisbane, Australia. He also holds a Diploma of Financial Planning.
He is a self taught programmer and web-developer with a keen interest in technology and has completed numerous short courses online in programming, app development and cyber security. He has spent over a decade training in a variety of technologies and providing technical support in a variety of environments.
Stephen has a broad range of experience in the private sector in small business. He previously spent six years working for a major Australian airline and two years working in the public sector in Council. His experience includes work in environmental tourism, sales, customer and client service, and disability support.
Thom Woodroofe
Senior International Fellow
Bio
Thom most recently worked in the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade as the Principal Advisor to former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in his capacity as Ambassador to the United States, having served as his Chief of Staff during his previous tenure as the Asia Society’s President.
At the Asia Society, Thom was also a Senior Fellow and Founding Director of the China Climate Hub, where he worked on US-China climate cooperation and China’s climate diplomacy.
Prior to this, worked as a diplomatic advisor to the president and foreign minister of a Pacific Island nation, including helping them play a key role in securing the Paris Agreement and to form the High Ambition Coalition. He also worked with Rohingya politicians and refugees from Myanmar to deliver key accountability mechanisms and punitive measures, such as the establishment of a UN investigative body and the imposition of targeted sanctions.
Thom is also a Senior Advisor for Kaya Partners, a one-of-a-kind advisory firm, purpose built to help organisations identify new opportunities and mitigate risks through a deep understanding of climate policy, politics, and regulation of the energy transition.
Thom studied as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University and is also a graduate of Monash and Melbourne universities.