The state government has re-established the Small Business Ministerial Council appointing a west entrepreneur to lead the body.
Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman on Tuesday appointed a chair and members to the recently re-established council, who will advise on key issues affecting the sector, including government policies, programs and services designed for Victorian small businesses.
Dr Suji Sanjeevan has been appointed as the new council chair. Dr Sanjeevan is the founder and director of a multi-award-winning business creating boutique candles in Truganina, Light & Glo Designs. Dr Sanjeevan is also the co-founder and director of scent marketing company BrandScent.
The council members bring a mix of skills, business experience and perspectives, which will drive stronger outcomes for the sector. The other members are:
Dr Michael Akindeju – principal consulting process engineer at MKPro Engineering
Susan Benedyka – founder and managing director of The Regional Development Company
Niti Bhargava – founder and principal broker of GB Financials
John Burgess – CEO of Little Rocket and director of First Nations Network
Orianna Edmonds – dairy farmer and founder and CEO of Naturally Goat
Claire Elkin – founder of Engineering Equilibrium
Together with the Multicultural Business Ministerial Council, which advocates for the needs of culturally diverse business owners, the Small Business Ministerial Council helps ensure all Victorian small businesses have a voice.
Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman said “Having an expert council representing our small businesses is yet another way we are strengthening a sector that contributes so much to Victoria.”
“I look forward to working closely with the Small Business Ministerial Council to make sure Victoria’s small businesses continue to grow and thrive.”
