Event Speakers + Agenda

Technology and innovation continue to reshape the way businesses operate. In this keynote, Gus Balbontin will challenge attendees to rethink how they approach change, disruption, and opportunity.

Rather than predicting the future, Gus focuses on helping leaders build the mindset, adaptability, and culture required to thrive in uncertain environments. Drawing on his experience working with global organisations and emerging technologies, he will share practical insights on preparing businesses for whatever comes next.

Born in Patagonia and now based in Australia, Gus Balbontin is an entrepreneur, investor, and former Executive Director and CTO of Lonely Planet.

Throughout his career he has worked with companies including Google X, Amazon, and Nokia on innovation, technology, and high-performing teams. Today he invests in ventures across robotics, AI, and climate technology, and is known globally for his engaging and thought-provoking keynote presentations.

Australian Property Institute

Economic conditions play a significant role in shaping business growth and investment decisions. At Next Level 2026, Dr Sherman Chan will provide an overview of the current macroeconomic environment and what the next 18 months may hold for Australian businesses.

Her keynote will help technology service providers understand the economic forces influencing the SMB sector and the opportunities these trends may create.

Dr Sherman Chan is an economist with over 20 years of experience across consulting, Government, and industry. She is currently Chief Economist at the Australian Property Institute, a Lecturer in Economics at UNSW, and runs her own consultancy, Sherman Chan Economics.

Her previous roles include Chief Economist at Business NSW, Senior Manager in Risk and Regulatory Consulting at MinterEllison, and technical roles within the NSW Government. Sherman specialises in translating complex economic trends into insights that help businesses identify growth opportunities.