ABOUT US
We build global partnerships and bring breakthrough technologies to solve current critical environmental, health and safety issues.
OUR VALUES
The CORE of our values runs deep: through Collaboration we connect, through Opportunity we innovate, through Responsibility we deliver, and through Ethics we lead the way to 2050.
COLLABORATION – Together, we bridge continents and communities, connecting local potential with the world’s most innovative environmental solutions.
OPPORTUNITY – We see possibilities where others see problems, transforming tomorrow’s challenges into today’s sustainable solutions.
RESPONSIBILITY – We hold ourselves accountable not just to our partners and communities, but to the planet we’re working to heal for future generations.
ETHICS – Our commitment to doing what’s right guides every decision, ensuring that progress towards 2050 is built on integrity and transparency.
OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
MICHAEL SCHAEFER
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Michael is a Founder and brings deep experience in agribusiness, government relations, and innovation leadership. Raised on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, he operated a 3,800-hectare farming enterprise and has dedicated his career to advancing the grains industry.
A former Director of Grain Producers Australia, and past Chair of the Grains Council of South Australia, Michael has been a prominent voice in industry advocacy. He has served on multiple state and federal government inquiries and review panels, earning a reputation for constructive engagement with decision-makers at all levels.
Michael maintains strong networks across local, state, and federal government and leads strategic conversations with regulators, policymakers, and early-stage customers. He plays a key role in testing and scaling new ideas and technologies, ensuring SA2050 remains agile, connected, and forward-thinking.
michael@sa2050.com
DANNY MACMAHON
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
Danny Macmahon is a Founder and brings extensive experience across international business, agribusiness, sales, and marketing. Formerly CEO of a mid-sized wine company, he led its transformation from a grape-growing operation into an award winning global brand, expanding into over 15 international markets and launching multiple successful product lines.
With eight years based in Europe and a strong track record in start-ups, Danny brings a commercial focus and deep market insight. He has successfully negotiated major customer agreements, secured project funding, and driven strategic growth initiatives. Danny holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Diploma in Wine Marketing
danny@sa2050.com
DAMIAN SERONG
DIRECTOR, INNOVATION & SUPPLIER RELATIONS
Damian Serong is a Founder and brings a global perspective to innovation and supplier engagement, with over two decades of experience spanning wine, technology, and international business. Originally from Melbourne, Damian moved to the United States in 2007 to lead distribution efforts for Australian wineries and has been based in Nashville, Tennessee for the past 13 years.
Beyond wine, Damian has worked across diverse technology sectors including software development, healthcare IT, and renewable energy. He has led commercialisation efforts for a wide range of products and platforms from medical devices developed at Harvard in partnership with the US Department of Defense, to pharmaceutical software solutions and waste-to-energy technologies.
With expertise in sales, marketing, distribution, and project management, Damian brings a strong international network and proven capability in taking innovation from concept to market across North America and Europe.
damian@sa2050.com