John M Forbes ADAPEM   

John is the co-founder and director of tatu, a marketing and fundraising consultancy company offering flexible, and project based resources to educational institutions, not-for-profit agencies and small to medium enterprises.

A creative and strategic thinker, John has more than 15 years experience across a broad range of industries from start- up companies to food and beverage to education. In his previous roles, John has developed business, marketing and strategic plans, provided supplier liaison (particularly within print and production), conducted contract negotiations and built strong customer relationships, alliances and networks.

Entrepreneurial and outcome focused, John has developed two businesses from start up phase, Designer Wines servicing the corporate market with high quality unique gifts and brand[it] a promotional products company offering innovative solutions to maximize brand awareness. He is currently a co-director of brand[it].

John has undertaken studies in Wine Marketing, Business Management, and Export & International Business procedures. He has a keen interest in emerging media opportunities such as online communities, social networks and Web 2.0 technologies.

His fundraising expertise resulted in significant improvements to the Annual Giving program for a leading independent school along with the establishment of new sponsorship opportunities and the forging of industry links for career advice and student mentoring programs.

John volunteers his services to numerous committees and associations, most recently as Treasurer of ADAPE (Association of Development & Alumni Professionals in Education) and both the Scotch College Old Collegians Association and Scotch Old Collegians Football Club.

Mobile: 0407 979 711

E-mail: john@tatu.net.au