Team
We Are Sapio
Human-powered electronic security
Board
Tom Roche
Chairman
Tom is one of Australia’s most successful security industry executives, with over 35 years of experience.
As CEO and principal shareholder of SNP Security for twenty years, he led that organisation’s national expansion, focussing on aviation security and electronic security and employing over 4000 people.
In 2014 he negotiated the sale to Telstra of 51% of SNP’s electronics business to create SAPIO and in 2018 he led the sale of SNP’s Manpower business to Certis of Singapore.
In 2015 he was awarded the Australian Security Medal for his contribution to the security industry
He has served on multiple industry boards including ASIAL and CPSISC, advising on licensing, standards and industry training, as well as participating in Federal Government security reviews.
He is a Director and Board member of AWARE, a non for profit. AWARE’s focus is bridging the gap, providing and installing security equipment at no cost to domestic violence victims.
Nicholas Roche
Director
Nicholas brings experience from KPMG, where he led assurance, advisory, and internal audit work across the superannuation, insurance, and investment management sectors. He is currently a Risk and Operations Analyst at Aware Real Estate.
His experience encompasses risk management, governance, operations, information security, and infrastructure delivery. At Sapio, he advises on risk management, safety, governance and compliance.
David Horton
Director
David, a chartered accountant with 32 years of experience, operates his own practice, providing accounting, tax and consulting services across various industries and business sectors.
As a valued strategic contributor, he has advised Sapio on accounting and tax matters for 15 years and is uniquely qualified in this field. Additionally, David has significant experience in asset sales, acquisitions and business integrations and is a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia.
Gary Whelan
CEO/Director
Gary started as CEO with Sapio when it was known as Telstra SNP Monitoring in 2017. Prior to that he had national roles in operations and sales management – with both national and regional based organisations, having initially trained in accounting and financial management.
Under Gary’s leadership Sapio has evolved as a significant force through building and melding a team of industry innovators, with some of the world’s best technology partners. He is focussed on creating a high performance culture that empowers its people and is committed to building and nurturing strong relationships with clients and the wider industry to create a more secure future.
Executive
David Starkey
CFO
With a successful career in accounting and financial management, including stints with PWC and other industry leading businesses, David joined Telstra SNP, rising to the role of Sapio CFO in 2018 – with additional operational responsibility for the monitoring division.
David possesses strong analytical skills and risk management expertise, combined with a deep understanding of financial regulation and compliance – he is a strategic leader focussed on financial stability and growth. His communication and leadership qualities contribute to an environment where technological advancements and trends are integrated seamlessly into the business to drive client satisfaction and business profitability.
Sjef Klaassen
Regional General Manager
Deep security experience, combined with a pragmatic and well considered approach to business and client relationships has characterised Sjef’s success over the years, eight of which have been with Sapio.
As a seasoned manager, Sjef leads growth within his portfolio by shaping culture, underpinned by well-honed customer insights and a high degree of strategic nous – all of which has contributed to his valuable and continuing contribution to the business.
Matthew Denmeade
NSW State Manager
Matt is a multi-skilled business manager, having risen through the ranks from an electrical contracting background in the security industry – joining Sapio in 2017.
Committed to promoting continual growth and business performance, Matt’s diverse expertise encompasses business development, project management and process improvement. Passionate about coaching teams and fostering strong customer relationships, he excels in technical training and service excellence – continually focussed on enhancing business and client outcomes.
Scott Leonard
Victorian State Manager
Scott is an accomplished security professional with thirty years experience in the security industry, having held a range of diverse roles with broad responsibilities during his career.
He is experienced in leading dynamic teams with multiple levels of expertise which combines well with his solid skills in business operations, product and inventory oversight and strategic marketing. He is committed to building the Sapio business through professionalism, team work and positive client interactions.
Robert Moss
ACT Manager
As an industry specialist, Robert has worked in the security arena since leaving school. Starting out as a field service technician, he has progressed through the ranks to his role today as branch manager, having worked successfully for both SNP and Telstra SNP previously.
Through the application of team leadership, overlaid with extensive industry experience and intrepid customer insights, he is steadfast in pursuing operational success and growth through long term, strategic business relationships.
Lisa Matley
HR Manager
With 18 years of experience in the security industry and with Sapio, Lisa has contributed to the organisation’s growth and success across a wide range of roles, playing a key part in the development and implementation of business strategies, systems, and projects.
Focussed on nurturing an environment that promotes employee development, engagement, and well-being – she is committed to Sapio’s growth and development by providing high-level executive support while remaining dedicated to the delivery of results in a timely and efficient manner.
Tony Pham
Engineering Manager
An electronics engineer by profession, Tony has spent most of his career in the security industry – working initially for Wormald Security, then SNP and Sapio – his technical knowledge is arguably second to none.
With strong analytical skills and problem solving abilities, he is innovative, detail oriented and always adaptable and open to new technlogies. Excellent communication, teamwork and project management aptitude ensures that the design, testing and improvement of Sapio’s electronic systems is done efficiently, reliably and safely.
Scott Cootes
HSE Manager
A career security industry specialist, Scott has held numerous roles in SNP, Telstra SNP and Sapio – with responsibility today for health, safety and environment.
Scott is a proactive, detail focussed executive with extensive knowledge directed towards ensuring a safe workplace through training, compliance and continuous improvement. Through leadership, communication and problem solving he is steadfast in his commitement to employeee well-being and environmental sustainability.
Jakes Styrdom
WA State Manager
With over 30 years in security, law enforcement and risk management across South Africa and Australia, Jakes is a well-respected and seasoned leader. His career began in the South African Police Service after which he successfully transitioned into private security, continuing this trajectory on moving to Australia.
He joined Sapio in 2016 where is known for his passion for building and nurturing safer communities, fostering strong client relationships and delivering professional security solutions that people can trust.
Len Werber
QLD State Manager
With 40+ years in the security industry, Len has worked in manufacturing, installations, and project management across energy, federal, and commercial sectors.
Len is a results oriented business leader focussed on customer satisfaction through the design and deployment of electronic security solutions achieved via collaboration with security engineers and technology partners. Having previously developed high-level security software testifies to his technical knowledge across risk assessment and loss prevention, through to access control, CCTV and converged networks.
