Part relationship-builder, part problem-solver, Isaac helps bring together the people who turn social procurement into real impact.
As Senior Manager Business Development at The Fair Co., Isaac spends his days connecting Indigenous businesses, social enterprises and project partners to create opportunities that deliver meaningful outcomes for communities.
With more than a decade of experience across the Indigenous economy and social enterprise sector, he brings a unique perspective to the role. Before joining The Fair Co., Isaac owned and operated an Indigenous-owned renewable energy EPC business. Following its sale during the pandemic, he worked as a consultant supporting Indigenous businesses, not-for-profits, government agencies and Tier 1 contractors, giving him firsthand insight into the opportunities and challenges that exist across all stages of a project.
For Isaac, no two days look quite the same.
“It all starts with a good strong cuppa and a catch-up with the team,” he says.
From there, the focus shifts to conversations, partnerships and helping organisations deliver on their social procurement commitments. Whether it’s supporting a major infrastructure project or helping renewable energy developers connect with local suppliers, much of the work comes back to building strong relationships and staying connected to industry.
One of the things Isaac enjoys most about his role is seeing projects progress from an idea to reality.
“Being part of that journey and advocating for more social investment and stronger community outcomes is something I really enjoy.”
A highlight of his time at The Fair Co. has been supporting international organisations entering the Australian market. Many arrive with limited understanding of Australia’s social procurement landscape and the policies designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation. Helping those organisations better understand the local context and engage more meaningfully with communities is work he finds particularly rewarding.
There’s also a side to the role that people don’t always see.
From tender submissions and procurement strategies to project documentation, Isaac spends plenty of time behind the scenes helping organisations strengthen their commitments and maximise their impact.
Looking ahead, Isaac believes there is an opportunity for greater understanding between government and industry when it comes to delivering social value.
“When projects are publicly funded, there’s a real opportunity to create positive social outcomes alongside economic outcomes. The earlier that understanding exists across a project, the stronger the results can be.”
Inspired by leaders such as Neville Bonner and Sir David Unaipon, Isaac is passionate about creating opportunities that leave a lasting legacy for communities.
And if The Fair Co. were a band?
Isaac would be the bass guitarist.
Not seeking the spotlight but providing the rhythm and foundation that helps everything else come together. It’s a fitting description for someone whose impact is often felt through the partnerships, opportunities and outcomes he helps create every day.
