Team Category: Management

Meet Colin, a legal trailblazer with a story that reads like a journey through the fascinating realms of intellectual property and the pulse of the music industry. Graduating from Monash University in 1976, Colin didn’t just dip his toes into the legal world; he dived headfirst into the emerging field of IP management, setting the stage for a career that would redefine the way we view intangible property.

In 1979, the world became Colin’s playground as he made his mark in London, working with Stanley Gibbons, the oldest philatelic trading house. But that was just the beginning. His next chapter unfolded in the international copyright division of Chappell Intersong (now Warner Chappell), where he played a pivotal role in developing one of the world’s earliest relational-database platforms. Picture this: a platform designed to manage the global treasure trove of music copyrights, offering Colin a unique grounding in international copyright within the entertainment business.

Returning to Australia in 1984, Colin took the helm as Corporate Counsel and Head of Legal & Business for Polygram Australia (now Universal Music). Here, he became the legal maestro, negotiating recording agreements, handling trademarks, and overseeing litigation. His legacy includes being part of the team that birthed the first co-venture with ABC Enterprises, a groundbreaking move in the world of recordings and videos.

But Colin’s journey doesn’t stop there. In 2018, he assumed the role of Executive Manager for the Hunter Angels, dedicating his expertise to venture promoters and potential investors in the startup arena. Passionate about contributing to Newcastle’s evolution into a post-carbon economy, Colin is not just a legal virtuoso; he’s a catalyst for change.

And when he’s not navigating the legal landscape, you’ll find Colin exploring the extremes of Spotify, delving into the intricacies of human cognition, devouring knowledge on English Constitutional history, physics, macroeconomics, and media theory. Oh, and did we mention he’s not a fan of Facebook? Colin is more than a critical part of the MB Creative Lab team; he’s a force that propels the company into new dimensions, where law, music, and innovation converge into a symphony of success.

Enter Kate, the powerhouse in project finance whose journey is a rollercoaster of creativity, funding triumphs, and a knack for turning opportunities into gold. Starting in the dazzling worlds of film and radio, Kate’s career took flight, and she soared into senior executive roles with not one but two federal arts agencies.

Never one to be confined by convention, Kate’s curiosity led her to the vibrant start-up scene in Australia. Here, she didn’t just dip her toes; she dived in headfirst, raising capital and weaving a web of connections that spans the international funding community. As the mastermind behind the boutique advisory company KI Media, Kate worked her magic, securing government tenders, and navigating the dynamic landscape of emerging technologies.

One of her standout victories was clinching the government tender to deliver the NSW Innovation Advisory Service, where her business consulted with a plethora of companies, leaving an indelible mark on the innovation landscape. With more than $15 million AUD worth of grants under her belt across diverse sectors, Kate is not just a financial whiz; she’s a funding virtuoso.

As the Chief Strategy Officer at MB Creative Lab, Kate’s management and communication skills are the secret sauce that keeps the company’s gears turning smoothly. Armed with formal qualifications in communications and financial planning, she brings practical experience that transcends both realms.

But Kate is not just about the numbers; she’s a maestro in building partnerships, a virtuoso in cross-sector communication, and a trailblazer in spotting opportunities and forging alliances. Steering the ship at MB Creative Lab, Kate ensures the company stays on course, with teams focused and goals crystal clear.

In a world where innovation meets finance, Kate is the navigator, charting a course that’s as clear, straight, and narrow as her unwavering focus. With a career that reads like a symphony of success, Kate is not just making waves; she’s orchestrating a financial masterpiece.

With over 40 years experience in building systems, technical infrastructure and software, Damien is the driver behind MB Creative Lab and its global success. In 2023 the company he founded back in 1994 was rebranded to MB Creative Lab to encompass more of the diverse range of services and work that the company has completed over the past 30 years.

Damien Reilly, a seasoned professional at the forefront of software and systems development, seamlessly blends his extensive expertise in the music industry with a distinguished career in information technology. With a career spanning over three decades, Damien has cultivated a unique skill set that positions him as a visionary leader and a technical innovator.

Education and Professional Memberships:

In 1987, Damien earned a Diploma in Finance, laying the groundwork for a multifaceted career that integrates financial acumen with cutting-edge technology. A proud member of the Institute of Export, his commitment to excellence extends to memberships in the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA), the Association of Independent Recording (AIR), and the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).

Global Networks and Technological Leadership: 

Damien’s far-reaching global networks in technology have positioned Blue Pie as a market leader in web-based communication systems and digital entertainment networks. His specialist skill lies in the practical application and seamless integration of these systems into business operations, providing significant market leverage to the MB Creative Lab team. As a sales-focused CEO, Damien combines technical expertise with strategic vision to drive the company’s success.

Regarded globally for his software and systems development skills:

With over 30 years of experience in both the music industry and information technology, Damien is a master in software and systems development. His technical acumen extends to the creation of great systems, ensuring the continuous growth of MB Creative Lab.

Damien’s leadership has been pivotal in landing significant projects, such as the production contract for the globally successful “DJ Central” TV show, resulting in one of the largest independent catalogues of HD video clips in the Southern Hemisphere.

Specialist Skills:

Damien’s diverse skill set encompasses:

Sales: A sales-focused CEO, Damien excels in driving revenue and market growth.
Digital Distribution: His expertise ensures MB Creative Lab’s prominence in digital entertainment networks and meta data management services landscape.
Digital Infrastructure: Damien’s technical leadership contributes to MB Creative Lab’s development of robust digital infrastructure.
Music Publishing and Copyright Management: His background as a musician and composer uniquely informs his approach to intellectual property and copyright issues for MB Creative Lab network of content management partners.
Systems Development: Damien’s hands-on involvement in systems development ensures the continual evolution of MB Creative Lab’s technological capabilities.

Board Positions and Industry Recognition:
As a leader with a global perspective, Damien holds board positions in key entities, including:

* Blue Pie Records
* DJ Central TV
* Planet Blue Pictures USA
* Ordior
* Ordior Media
* Gravity Stars

These positions underscore his commitment to driving innovation and success within the industry.

Personal Interests: 

Beyond the realm of technology and business, Damien’s personal interests include the study of eastern philosophy, including Tae Kwon Do. He balances these pursuits with a passion for producing and playing live music, reflecting a holistic approach to life and work.

Damien is a visionary technologist, a strategic leader, and a creative force in the intersection of software and systems development. His commitment to excellence, combined with a multifaceted skill set, propels MB Creative into a position of continual growth and global recognition.