How have you been involved in the Magento ecosystem?

I have been a part of the Magento ecosystem since 2008, contributing in various capacities such as a developer, consultant, and more recently, a leader in Commerce Solution Consultancy for Adobe across APAC. My journey has provided me with the opportunity to work with myriad brands, both large and small, across diverse industries. I pride myself on architecting unique solutions with Magento technology. Throughout the years, I've actively participated in the community, presenting at Meet Magento events worldwide and facilitating community sessions and enablement across the EMEA and APAC regions.

In what ways have you contributed to the Magento Association and/or other non-profit communities?

Though this will be my first formal role with a non-profit, my dedication to the Magento community is longstanding. I've consistently presented, educated, and promoted Magento, vigorously advocating it across social channels. My contributions extend to the open-source community through code contributions and documentation efforts.

What value would you add to the Board to help us advance our mission?

I offer a unique perspective as a technically-minded former developer who can bridge the gaps between business (board, C-Suite, etc.) and technology. I regularly engage in problem-solving with Magento/Adobe Commerce, aiding merchanges (small, large, enterprise) to appreciate the platform's value. Moreover, I focus on technical education, demonstrating how digital commerce solutions benefit stakeholders in the short and long term. I coach colleagues on communicating technical concepts to business audiences and collaborate closely with the product team on innovations central to community growth and success.

What are the top 3 initiatives you want to see the Board accomplish in the next 6 months?

Firstly, I wish for Magento to regain its footing as a leader in the flexible commerce market by embracing modern technological advancements, particularly AI, to enhance developer and business experiences. Secondly, establishing a strategic stance on AI that galvanises community support. Thirdly, (and a little selfishly) I will advocate for the re-establishment of Meet Magento/Magento Live event in Australia to inspire local engagement. However, these will all be starting points for larger pieces of work.

What initiatives do you want to see the Magento Association focus on in the coming years?

Innovation and adaptability are imperative. By leaning into AI and agentic technologies, the Magento Association can spearhead advancements that enrich developers, business practitioners, and end users alike. The future vision should encompass a strategy that integrates these technologies seamlessly within our community focus.

What are the biggest challenges that you think the Association has faced and how would you approach them?

The Magento Association faces the ongoing challenge of harmonising innovation with the enduring values of open-source commitment, especially as we advance SaaS models like Adobe Commerce as a Cloud Service (ACCS). The association’s recent strategies, such as enhancing documentation and fostering community engagement through volunteer-led initiatives, are commendable steps. Embracing technological advancements, particularly AI integration, while ensuring open-source remains central, is crucial to maintaining our community's vitality.

To address these challenges, empowering committees with more autonomy will bolster community involvement and ownership. Streamlining events and refining content strategies, as flagged in recent updates, can deepen engagement and align us with contemporary digital trends. My approach would emphasise transparent communication and community-driven decision-making, ensuring Magento's ecosystem thrives and continues to innovate while respecting its foundational open-source ethos.

What else would you like to share to either the Election Committee or the membership of the Magento Association as they review your application? What makes you a great candidate to join the Board of Directors?

My entire career is predicated on a deep-seated passion for Magento (I wear red, but bleed orange). I advocate regularly for both the software and the community, engaging internally within Adobe and with external stakeholders to champion our cause. Though I work for Adobe, my roots are firmly within the Magento Community. My self-taught journey from M1 highlights my commitment to fostering innovation that resonates with community needs, now and in the future.