Amy de lore
Policy and Public Affair Manager
Amy De Lore is a communications professional with extensive experience across journalism, government relations, public affairs and policy.
She has worked with leading regional organisations including The Newcastle Herald, University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Health, Lake Macquarie City Council and the Property Council. Through these roles, Amy has built a broad understanding of the region’s policy environment and developed a strong professional network across business, government, politics, and the community.
As Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Business Hunter, Amy leads the organisation’s policy and advocacy agenda, working to influence outcomes that support the sustainable growth and diversification of the regional economy. She plays a key role in shaping submissions, engaging stakeholders and ensuring the voice of business is represented in key policy discussions across the Hunter.
Amy brings a strong analytical approach to her work, underpinned by deep sector knowledge and extensive experience in communications and public affairs. She is committed to supporting a more resilient and prosperous regional economy.
BOB HAWES
Chief Executive Officer
Bob Hawes has been Chief Executive Officer of Business Hunter since January 2017, leading the organisation’s strategy, advocacy and member engagement agenda.
In his role, Bob is responsible for driving Business Hunter’s organisational direction, including its program of thought leadership, policy development and advocacy on behalf of the regional business community. He also oversees the delivery of events, networking initiatives, and member development programs that support business growth and connection across the Hunter.
Prior to joining Business Hunter, Bob was Chief Executive of the Hunter Development Corporation (HDC), where he led the organisation through a period of significant change and contributed to the revitalisation of the Newcastle CBD during a time of evolving state government priorities and investment.
He also previously led Lake Macquarie’s economic development organisation, Dantia, where he focused on driving regional growth and investment attraction.
Bob brings extensive leadership experience across economic development and regional advocacy, with a strong focus on long-term growth, collaboration and strengthening the Hunter’s economic future.
Adam luker
Business Manager - Membership & Sponsorship
As Business Manager - Membership and Sponsorship at Business Hunter, Adam works with members and partners to support engagement across the organisation and connections within the regional business community. He plays a role in facilitating relationships and supporting initiatives that help businesses access opportunities and grow within the Hunter.
Prior to joining Business Hunter, Adam built experience in business ownership and operations, leading a retail team and developing expertise in customer relationships, team leadership and commercial performance.
Adam brings a practical, people-focused approach to his work, underpinned by commercial experience and an understanding of the local business landscape.
Adam is committed to supporting members and strengthening the role Business Hunter plays in enabling business success across the region.
Sue Elvers
Regional Coordinator
Sue joined Business Hunter in 2012, bringing a background in office administration and relationship management. She initially commenced in the Member Officer role, supporting member retention, responding to enquiries and providing general administrative support.
In 2015, Sue moved into the role of Regional Coordinator, before being seconded in 2022 to Member Engagement Executive with Business NSW, where she supported membership engagement across multiple regions.
Sue rejoined Business Hunter in February 2026 as Regional Coordinator, where she supports the team across administration, events, communications and advocacy activities. She also contributes to member retention efforts across the Hunter region, supporting strong ongoing engagement with members.
Sue brings a reliable, detail-focused approach to her work and plays an important role in supporting the smooth delivery of Business Hunter’s programs and member services.
Ellie Bright
Events and Marketing Manager
As Events & Marketing Manager at Business Hunter, Ellie leads the strategy and delivery of the organisation’s events, marketing and supports sponsorship programs. She has transformed the events portfolio into one of Business Hunter’s strongest commercial drivers, delivering record results in ticket sales, profitability and partnership outcomes.
Ellie also leads an integrated marketing approach that has significantly expanded brand reach and strengthened Business Hunter’s position as the leading voice for business in the Hunter region. Her work ensures communications are highly visible and aligned to key regional priorities.
Her previous experience underpins her strategic approach to marketing and strengthens her ability to deliver high-performing events, ensuring they are effectively positioned, promoted and aligned to audience demand.
Ellie brings a collaborative working style, strategic thinking and a focus on translating ambitious goals into measurable outcomes.
Your friends at Business Hunter
CONTACT US
We love to hear from our members, the media and business owners in the area.
Phone: (02) 9466 4665 or email: info@businesshunter.com