Protect, Position, Profit: The IP Formula for Shareholder Value

Dean is an expert in commercialisation strategy, early-stage finance and business valuations. His career spans big 4 consulting, private equity and government, including serving as NZ’s Trade Commissioner in Taiwan as part of NZTE’s Greater China team. He was previously Regional Director at a leading Asia-Pacific intangible asset consultancy and held senior roles in equity analysis and strategy at top firms. Dean holds degrees in Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and International Business from Otago and Auckland universities.

Iona is a pioneering New Zealand cell biologist whose patented research spans cancer, immunology, and gut health. Her discovery that plant cell apoptosis (death) could be reversed led to application in human cancer and immune cells. She has served as CEO/CSO and Director developing oral drugs for eczema and Long Covid, breakthrough gut innovations like IBSacol, Phloe, and KiwiCrush, and collaborating with multinationals including Nestlé. Her work in regulating cell death inspired the patented Myrecil ingredient behind Atopis skincare and OTC eczema treatment, and the Myregyna® Medical Device system for the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause.

Jillian is a Patent Attorney at Davies Collison Cave, specialising in patent procurement and IP portfolio strategy. She advises on patentability, commercialisation, infringement, and validity across diverse fields including medical devices, mechanical engineering, construction, and renewable energy. Her clients range from startups to universities and industry leaders. She is committed to delivering clear, pragmatic advice tailored to each client’s goals, without unnecessary legal complexity. Jillian holds degrees in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Auckland.

Nick is a leading trade mark lawyer at Davies Collison Cave with over 25 years’ experience across New Zealand and Australia. A recognised specialist in New Zealand trade mark law, he advises clients globally and manages international trade mark portfolios for clients ranging from startups to multinationals. Nick serves on advisory groups for the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) and has been named a WIPR Leader” in 2021-2024 in New Zealand trade mark law along with recognition as a Global Elite Thought Leader for Trade Marks - New Zealand, 2025. Nick has published over 50 articles on New Zealand IP law and practice.  He has also taught New Zealand trade mark law and practice (post-graduate/Masters) at the University of Melbourne School of Law for the last 20 years.