Gavin Karro

I'm a senior executive with over 18 years of experience delivering outstanding results across Federal and State Government sectors, specialising in government sales, strategic partnerships, and Indigenous engagement. I’ve successfully led multimillion-dollar contracts, built trusted relationships with senior public servants and politicians, and played a key role in shaping national Indigenous Procurement policy.

As a founding contributor to Supply Nation and a long-standing advocate for economic empowerment, I combine commercial acumen with deep cultural and policy insight. I’m now seeking senior roles—such as Head of Government Sales, Account Director, or Head of Government Relations—within organisations that are purpose-driven, commercially ambitious, and committed to Reconciliation through their RAP.

Based in Sydney and experienced in commuting to Canberra, I bring energy, integrity, and a strong network to every role.

General Manager – Government
Message Stick Group | 2010–2023
Led all Government business functions for one of Australia’s most recognised Indigenous-owned ICT and professional services firms.

Built Government revenue from zero to $15 million annually, retaining major Commonwealth clients for over a decade.

Oversaw sales, account management, delivery, and financial performance across Federal and State Government portfolios.

Developed and executed Government business development strategy; managed major panels and contract vehicles.

Provided direct commercial and strategic advice to CEO and Board.

Played a key role in lobbying for Indigenous Procurement reforms and advising agencies on IPP, Exemption 17/16, and related strategies.

Managed relationships with senior executives and Ministers, and oversaw project delivery, pricing, budgeting, RFx responses, and supplier contracts.

Advocated for Indigenous economic development nationally and helped launch Indigenous trainee programs.

Director / Advisor – Indigenous Business Sector
2020–Present
Advised and supported the launch of multiple Indigenous-owned ventures in the energy sector, including First Peoples Energy.

Provided strategic and commercial advice, including funding applications, business planning, and go-to-market support.

Actively lobbied for policy settings that support Indigenous-led energy and economic initiatives.

Commercial Manager & Product Executive Roles
Macquarie Telecom | 2001–2006
Held multiple senior commercial and category roles focused on telecommunications, including Acting Director, Carrier Relations (Asia Pacific).

Key contributor to Government and enterprise sales bids, pricing, profitability modelling, and partner negotiations.

Improved gross margins and launched multiple new voice products; won several “High Achiever” awards.

Led APAC turnaround initiative, boosting gross margins in Singapore’s voice business.

European Wholesale Commercial Manager
Global Crossing (UK) | 2000–2001

Responsible for commercial oversight of European sales forecasts, product profitability, and cash assurance.

Identified $5m/month in lost revenue and achieved consistent sales targets across the region.

Assistant Financial Manager
British Telecom Syncordia Solutions (UK) | 1999–2000

Supported operational management with budgeting, financial reporting, and KPI improvements.

CPA (Certified Practising Accountant, Australia)

CA(SA) Chartered Accountant, South Africa

CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, UK) 

Bachelor of Commerce, Accounting & Information Systems, University of Cape Town (1994)

Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting

Awards: Dean’s Entrance Merit Award (1991), Amelia Schenkman Scholarship (1991, 1992)

Professional training as Articled Clerk and Audit Manager at Horwath Cape Town (1995–1998), including secondment to Horwath New York (1998)