Breakthrough Victoria
James Davern currently serves as the Director of Digital Technologies at Breakthrough Victoria, leading due diligence for investment proposals in the Digital Technologies sector and managing investment thesis development. Prior to this role, James held the position of Associate Director of Industry Research Engagement at Swinburne University of Technology, where responsibilities included developing R&D strategies and managing partnerships across digital innovation, defence, and space sectors. With extensive experience as a Senior Systems Engineer at Nova Systems and an Aerospace Engineer with the Royal Australian Air Force, James has contributed to high-profile systems and aircraft programs. Educational accomplishments include a Masters in Business focusing on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, an Executive Space Course at the International Space University, and multiple engineering and arts degrees from The University of Queensland. James is also on track to complete the Company Directors Course at the Australian Institute of Company Directors in 2024.
Breakthrough Victoria
Breakthrough Victoria is an independent investment company in Australia managing the $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund to make Victoria state a global innovation leader. These investments will support projects with strong potential to drive long-term industry growth, including the commercialisation of new innovations and technologies in Victoria. They also drive investment in research and innovation and catalyse new projects in partnership with knowledge institutes and industry stakeholders. We support people and innovations from the first spark of an idea right through to companies with ambitions for large scale growth. We bring together investors, research institutions, governments and companies to commercialise great ideas and innovations that create jobs in emerging industries and deliver prosperity for Victoria over the next decade and beyond. Please email us at contact@breakthroughvictoria.com or visit our website to find out more.