Staff
Board of Directors
Advisor
Volunteer

Jessica Freitag

Advocacy & Communications Coordinator

Jess leads communications at CAA and supports advocacy efforts across various projects. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Management & Marketing) and a Master of Social Policy from the University of Melbourne, blending her dual interests in policy and communications.

During her time at university, Jess developed a passion for alternative proteins while leading marketing efforts for the Melbourne Alternative Protein Project. Her policy expertise was further honed at Whitehorse City Council, where she contributed to public health policy research and recommendations.

Jess is also deeply committed to the nonprofit sector, having been a long-term volunteer with Cambodian Kids Can. In addition to her professional pursuits, she has a special interest in coffee and spent several years as a barista.

Dr. Sam Perkins

Chief Executive Officer
CAA is a tight-knit and committed team led by Dr Sam Perkins, who has a diverse background spanning engineering and humanitarian sectors.

Dr. Kate Secombe

Newsletter Coordinator & Content Developer
Kate is a scientist with a PhD in Medicine, where she examined how the gut microbiota contributes to the development of gastrointestinal side effects.

Joanne Tunna

Chief Operating Officer
Jo is the Chief Operating Officer of CAA and brings over 15 years of experience across government, non-profit and private sectors

Joanne Tunna

Chief Operating Officer
Jo is the Chief Operating Officer of CAA and brings over 15 years of experience across government, non-profit and private sectors

Dr. Sam Perkins

Chief Executive Officer
CAA is a tight-knit and committed team led by Dr Sam Perkins, who has a diverse background spanning engineering and humanitarian sectors.

More Board Directors

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Chloe Dempsey

Director
Chloe brings a range of experience in strategy, policy, and green technology to her role as Director.

Dr. Carin Basirun

Secretary
Carin holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, with a focus on cardiac mechanotransduction and over five years of experience in tissue engineering.

Paul Oosting

Chairperson
Paul is well-versed in climate and environmental impact, having spent the last 15+ years working in impact for justice, nature, and climate solutions

Dr. Bianca Le

Founder
In August 2020, cell biologist Bianca, took a massive leap of faith and founded CAA mid Melbourne lockdown.

Elaine Siu

Director
Elaine is a veteran in the alternative proteins space, having served in multiple roles in pioneering organisations including The Good Food Institute.

Dr. Anna Barlow

Advisor
Anna is a seasoned expert in the food and agritech sectors, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to our advisory committee.

Dr. James Ryall

Advisor
James Ryall is a distinguished biotech consultant with over twenty years of expertise in cell biology, biomanufacturing, and regenerative medicine.

Glen Neal

Advisor
Glen has more than 20 years of experience in food regulation and biosecurity, which has developed his expertise in crisis and risk management.

Dr. James Ryall

Advisor
James Ryall is a distinguished biotech consultant with over twenty years of expertise in cell biology, biomanufacturing, and regenerative medicine.

Glen Neal

Advisor
Glen has more than 20 years of experience in food regulation and biosecurity, which has developed his expertise in crisis and risk management.

More Volunteers

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Lisa Musgrove

Science & Technology Lead
Lisa is a third-year PhD candidate investigating stem cell sources for cultivated crustacean meat.

Lisa Musgrove

Science & Technology Lead
Lisa is a third-year PhD candidate investigating stem cell sources for cultivated crustacean meat.
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Want to join our team?

Register your interest in paid and voluntary positions with CAA. Fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch.