Built to Endure: Inside the Playbook of Legendary Brands

Lorna Jane founder Lorna Jane Clarkson and Lowes owner Linda Penn

What separates brands that burn out from those that dominate for decades? In this session, two of Australia’s most experienced founders go deep on the commercial decisions behind their staying power—from navigating expansion and competition to protecting margins and evolving operations at scale. They’ll unpack how they’ve adapted product strategies, built teams and managed brand positioning through constant market change. This is a tactical session on long-game leadership from operators who’ve built high-volume, high-recognition brands with real staying power.

No Filter: The Truth About Building an Empire

Mimco and A-ESQUE founder Amanda Rettig and Kikki.K founder Kristina Karlsson

Scaling a business from start-up to multi-million dollar operation takes more than hustle—it takes hard calls, financial discipline and unflinching resolve. In this raw and inspirational session, two pioneering founders walk through the operational and strategic inflection points that shaped their empires. From securing capital and managing growth to leadership pivots and structural resets, they’ll share what really happens behind the scenes when ambition meets execution. For founders and executives navigating scale, this is a rare look at the realities of building—and rebuilding—as a startup.

Beyond the Viral Moment: Turning Fame into Fortune

Triangl Founder Erin Deering and Mode Sportif founder Deborah Symond O’Neil

Going viral is one thing. Building a business that lasts is another. In this session, two high-profile eComm founders break down how they turned explosive visibility into viable, long-term operations. From handling surges in demand to scaling infrastructure and keeping customers engaged beyond the buzz, they’ll unpack the practical realities of growth after hype. If you’ve ever wondered what happens after “overnight success,” this is where the story really starts.

Rebuild Mode: Breathing New Life into Iconic Brands

Marcs, David Lawrence and Sass & Bide former managing director Paula Mackenzie and Ksubi CEO Craig King

Turnaround strategies aren’t theoretical—they’re operational. In this session, hear from executives who’ve stepped into high-stakes environments to lead brand transformations from the inside out. Whether triggered by market shifts, ownership changes or a fresh creative direction, these are stories of decisive action: new teams, new product pipelines, new commercial models and a brand new repositioning strategies that delivered results. A must-attend for anyone facing a reset moment—whether by choice or necessity.

One on One: Inside the sale of the century

Founder Honey Birdette Eloise Monaghan

Want to know how Eloise Monaghan built and sold the Honey Birdette empire for $333 million? Let’s just say we’ve got a few things under wraps—this surprise session will give you the inside scoop, no holds barred.