Introducing Marc Snape to Subak Australia's Advisory Board!

We are thrilled to welcome Marc Snape to Subak Australia. He brings a wealth of expertise in politics, policy, as well as strategy consulting, and climate research. Marc is keen to leverage his background to further Subak Australia's mission of advancing climate action and sustainability.

Marc's key strengths bridge public and private sectors by emphasizing mutual understanding, trusted relationships, and strategic messaging. His commitment to protecting the planet for future generations fuels his passion for Subak's mission and its potential to drive positive change. He is eager to contribute to Subak Australia's journey towards a more sustainable future.

1.We’re thrilled to welcome you to Subak Australia’s Advisory Board! Could you share more about your background and what specifically drew you to Subak Australia?

My career has spanned a range of sectors and policy spaces, largely in politics and strategy consulting. I first came across Subak through a project I was working on focusing on Australian voter attitudes on climate change and identifying politically-viable policy pathways for action. I believe the work Subak undertakes in supporting innovation is critical to limiting the impacts of climate change on the world.

2.How do you envision applying your expertise to further Subak’s mission of advancing climate action and sustainability?

I see my experience in government, and separately in climate research and advocacy bringing a useful blend of expertise for cohort members to maximise the impact of their work – whether through government or broader strategic or engagement advice.

3.As someone who has worked with start-ups, NGOs, and large corporations, how do you approach bridging the gap between public and private sector stakeholders, especially in contentious policy areas?

Like any partnership or collaboration, in my opinion the critical starting points are mutual understanding and ideally, finding an alignment on values or objectives. Being aware of the other party’s priorities and their pain points, and more broadly how they see the world is a really strong foundation for success. From that you can build trusted relationships, and good faith. This is all particularly relevant when speaking to Government, as it will allow you to shape your messaging and choose your moment, which gives you the best shot at landing your pitch.

 4.What aspects of Subak Australia's work resonate with you personally, and how do you see yourself aligning with our values and goals?

Supporting talented and passionate people, and working towards an important shared goal resonates really strongly with me. I can also appreciate the ups and downs of starting a new business, so supporting teams on that journey is definitely something I’m passionate about.

 5.Given your commitment to protecting our planet for future generations, what makes Subak Australia uniquely positioned to drive positive change in the fight against climate change, and why do you feel compelled to support its mission?

There’s no silver bullet to the challenge we’re facing. The global effort to combat climate change is complex, with multiple “fronts”, and a huge range of potential solutions, along with plenty of barriers to overcome. Investing in early stage startups, yields significant multipliers – whether economic or otherwise.

While established players in the space are often better resourced, newer organisations tend to have less capacity for non-core activities, leading to a risk that important innovations and new ways of thinking are missed purely through lack of support, and that’s what I hope to help with through Subak Australia.

 6.Finally, as you embark on this new role, what message would you like to share with our team and stakeholders about your commitment to driving positive change through Subak Australia?

 I’m looking forward to it! My approach in climate is very results focused – delivering genuine impact over moral victories. Pragmatism over idealism. This outlook is heavily shaped through my experience in politics, where I’ve worked with advocates to achieve change, but also been on the receiving end of campaigns. Thinking back on when the best results have been achieved, it’s been through collaboration rather than conflict.