Our Structure

The Banjo’s Board and Management Team combines the best of expertise and experience. You’ll find every  member an innovative and committed professional in their field. The Banjo's Board consists of:

Paul Cook – Chairman of the Board – Principal Paul Cook and Associates

With 25 years insolvency experience in a number of firms since 1983, Paul brings to the Banjo’s Board expertise in   a number of areas. To summarise, Paul is Principal of the Hobart Chartered Accounting firm Paul Cook & Associates, is a Registered Trustee in Bankruptcy, is an Official Liquidator, Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants and Australian Society of C.P.A’s, National President of IPAA, Committee Member IPAA Vic/Tas, Chairman of National Bankruptcy Sub Committee and is actively involved in Insolvency Law Reform, particularly bankruptcy being a member of the Bankruptcy Reform Consultative Forum.

Rod Young – Board Member – Executive Director DC Strategy

Rod brings to Banjo’s over 30 years experience in franchising, licensing and business development on a global scale. He is a recognised authority in the area of franchising and is considered Australasia’s leading franchise consultant and is a regular speaker at franchising seminars and conferences in Australia, the United States, India and Asia. Rod has also been instrumental in the development of leading edge franchise services including Franchise Program Development, Franchise Marketing, Franchise Financial Services and Franchise Personnel and HR.

Jessica Saxby— Director Liveat

Jessica commenced her career working at Banjo's Hobart in 1998. Throughout this time Jess gained knowledge of the key components that are critical to the success of running a Banjo's franchise. While employed at Banjo's, Jess completed a degree in Commerce majoring in Human Resource Management and Marketing & International Business. After completion of her degree, Jess worked as Human Resource Assistant for Banjo's Corporation. In 2006 Jessica opened her own company ‘Liveat Sandwich Bars’ which is known for its great customer service and retail experience.

Simon McNamara - Board Member

Simon is a successful entrepreneur that is highly capable in all aspects of running businesses. Simon was the Founder and Managing Director of Viva Juice. Viva was Boost's main competitor with 22 stores until Boost acquired the business in July 2004. Simon joined Boost as a director and shareholder and later took over as CEO.

Prior to Viva Juice, Simon had 9 years professional experience with Deloitte. Simon is a founding shareholder in Grill'd, a growing group of healthy gourmet hamburger restaurants. Simon also more recently invested in and is an active director of Spudbar, a specialty baked potato group with outlets in Melbourne and Perth.