Dean has more than 20 years’ experience in the Hospitality and Leisure industry, with over 10 years at the helm of Southport Sharks. Dean holds a business degree and notable achievements include the successful partnership with the AFL and GC SUNS, the introduction of diverse service lines and the development of a $25m ‘Mantra at Sharks’ accommodation project.
Adam Paterson
Chief Operating Officer
Adam Paterson
Chief Operating Officer
Adam has over 12 years experience in hospitality with extensive international experience, including the General Manager for a comedy club, live music venue and 1200 capacity bar.
Adam holds a Diploma of International Business and a Diploma of Leadership and Management. Adam recently completed the 2016 Club Leadership Institute program where he received the award for “Passion for the industry”.
He is a member of the CMAA for 2 years and is currently on the committee for the Gold Coast Region
Tim Lilii
Chief Financial Officer
Tim Lilii
Chief Financial Officer
Tim has an Audit background, is a Chartered Accountant and has commercial experience in the FMCG and Manufacturing Industry.
Tim's experience includes both ASX listed and medium-sized companies and he has a strong focus on streamlining processes and using data analytics to improve the bottom line.
Tim holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Law.
Paul Van Zijl
General Manager – Membership & Business Technology
Paul Van Zijl
General Manager – Membership & Business Technology
Paul has over 18 years experience in Casinos and Clubs, is multilingual, and a member of Club Managers Association Australia (CMAA). Paul holds a Diploma in Front Line Management and is experienced in Information Systems.
Jarrod Field
General Manager – Football Operations
Jarrod Field
General Manager – Football Operations
Jarrod has been with the Sharks since 2015 and previously was at the helm at Labrador FC as Senior Coach and Football Management. Jarrod also has an Event Management background with GCCC running major sports venues including Carrara Stadium.
Courtney Tahu
General Manager - Hotel
Courtney Tahu
General Manager - Hotel
Courtney has over 8 years’ experience in the hotel industry including Accor, a world leading hotel group. After previously managing the central reservations team for Mantra Head Office, Courtney joined the team at Mantra at Sharks. Due to her success in leading the team out of the pandemic, Courtney was promoted to General Manager.
Megan Lawton
General Manager - Health & Fitness Centre
Megan Lawton
General Manager - Health & Fitness Centre
Megan brings a rich background spanning 12 years in the fitness, health, and wellness industries. This time includes 7 impactful years at the renowned St Michaels Resort in the UK, along with 3 years in strength and conditioning where Megan was able to collaborate with diverse range of athletes. Beyond her fitness expertise, Megan is also a skilled surf photographer, infusing her unique creative flair into every project. Megan's broad skillset and innovative approach are invaluable assets to the future of our fitness centre.
Jane O’Connor
Executive Assistant
Jane O’Connor
Executive Assistant
With over 25 years in hospitality administration, Jane's career has included 18 years at a five-star international resort as an Executive Assistant. She has been with Southport Sharks since 2013 and works closely with the CEO, COO and Board of Directors. Jane was a key stakeholder on the Mantra at Sharks project, influencing the planning and design stage, pre-opening. and launch.
