Cremorne Connect: Behind the Deal - How Corporate Development Really Works
Join us at our fourth Cremorne Connect of the year as we dive into one of the most important (and misunderstood) parts of scaling a startup: corporate development.
Every big deal starts with a conversation. But how do you actually get that conversation started? Get an inside look at corp dev from two veterans who've shaped some of Australia’s biggest tech deals.
Vlad Gagovic (Ex-Head of Corp Dev at Car Group and Envato) and Stephanie Martin (Corp Dev Executive at REA Group) will share exactly how they spot opportunities — and what makes them pick up the phone.
You’ll get the real story on:
✅ What catches a corp dev team’s attention (and what doesn’t)
✅ How to nail that first approach
✅ The signals that separate interesting startups from the noise
✅ Building relationships that actually lead somewhere
Moderated by Alan Tsen, this session is for any founder who’s ever wondered how to turn a corp dev conversation into real momentum — whether you're chasing partnerships, investment, or exploring an exit with a large tech company.
Click above to register, and we hope you can join us at the Hub for this insightful conversation!
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About Our Speakers:
💡Stephanie Martin - Executive Manager, Corporate Development (M&A & Partnerships), REA Group
Stephanie is a seasoned corp dev leader with experience across strategy, M&A, and partnerships in some of Australia’s most dynamic sectors — from tech and real estate to live entertainment and financial services. At REA Group, she plays a key role in identifying and executing growth opportunities aligned with the company’s strategic vision. Her career includes roles at TEG, Vesparum Capital, and Lazard. A Chartered Accountant since 2016, Stephanie blends financial rigour with strategic insight — and knows exactly what it takes to get a deal over the line.
💡Vlad Gagovic – Former Head of Corporate Development, Car Group & Envato
Vlad has spent over a decade at the intersection of strategy, product, and M&A — helping some of Australia’s most well-known tech companies grow, invest, and transform. He’s led corp dev at Car Group (carsales) and Envato, where he drove acquisitions, built strategic partnerships, and helped architect major exits and early-stage investment programs. With experience across marketplaces, proptech, SaaS, and media, Vlad brings a builder’s mindset to corp dev — always focused on the customer, the roadmap, and the next opportunity to scale.
Moderated by: Alan Tsen - General Manager, Cremorne Digital Hub.
Alan is a seasoned operator, ex-founder, and startup ecosystem leader. He’s held senior roles at Chipper Cash, IAG’s corporate accelerator, and was the founding GM of Stone & Chalk Melbourne. A former chair of Fintech Australia, Alan has also advised government and regulatory bodies on digital finance and fintech innovation. He now leads Cremorne Digital Hub, a government-backed initiative accelerating enterprise innovation by connecting startups, corporates, investors, and educators to solve real-world industry challenges and drive commercial outcomes
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What is Cremorne Connect?
Cremorne Connect is a series of events designed for the wider tech ecosystem. We bring the local innovation community together to share insights, explore emerging challenges, and discuss practical strategies for the future.
Who Attends Cremorne Connect?
Cremorne Connect is for Tech Entrepreneurs, Startup Founders, Investors, and anyone keen to stay informed on the latest industry trends. Our goal is to foster a community of innovators driving impactful change in tech and business.
What Happens at Cremorne Connect?
This evening gathering includes:
Insightful panel discussions/fireside chats with industry experts.
Practical takeaways based on current trends and case studies.
Interactive Q&A sessions with the audience.
Networking opportunities with peers in the tech and VC community.
Drinks and Nibbles provided.
Please Note: Photography and videography may be taken at this event. If you would prefer to not be included in this, please let any of the CDH team know on entry to the event.