Co-Founder, Joint CEO and Exec. Director
Rael Ross
Understanding the need for technology to enable financing and digital distribution as companies seek access to finance, he co-founded Butn with Walter Rapoport. With over 15 years' experience in financial services, technology and mentoring other start-ups, Rael has driven the establishment of the Butn fintech solution.
Rael has created, developed and executed technology and digital projects through several start-ups. Rael co-founded Tsikot.com, one of the leading online automotive platforms and the largest online automotive forum in the Philippines.
As a qualified accountant, Rael has worked in private practice, the Not-for-Profit sector and for Big 4 firms.Rael was awarded a full scholarship at Monash University, where he completed a Bachelor of Accounting. In 2020, Rael was awarded Australian Young Entrepreneur across multiple categories.
Co-Founder, Joint CEO and Exec. Director
Walter Rapoport
His career spans economics research and more than 25 years as the founder and CEO of a knitwear manufacturing company supplying Australia’s largest retailers, including a period as a licensee to Pierre Cardin.
Understanding the importance for small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to have access to cash flow and capital, he co-founded Butn with Rael Ross.
Walter has a proven ability to lead high performing teams throughout his career in manufacturing, finance, sales and marketing.
He has vast experience in identifying, developing, and executing innovative receivables funding solutions and adapting products to digital transformations.
Mr Rapoport serves as Chairman of the Multicultural Chambers of Commerce Group and Chairs the Grampians Regional Advisory Council.
Walter graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Economics.
Non-Exec. Chairperson
Suzanne Ewart
Previously with Fosters’ Group, NAB, Telstra, BTR, Pacific Dunlop, and Woodside PetroleumCurrently on the Board of Dexus Wholesale Funds and Chairs Bendigo Comm. Bank
Previously Chairman of .au Domain Admin., Box Hill Institute, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and director of Treasury Corp. Victoria and TT Line
Non-Exec. Director
Mike Hirst
Previously Managing Director of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, director of Colonial First State Investment Managers, Treasury Corporation of Victoria, Barwon Health, and Austraclear.
Currently Deputy Chairman of Racing Victoria and Director of GMHBA and AMCIL
Non-Exec. Director
Celesti Harmse
Celesti started her career at one of Australia’s premier law firms and has extensive experience in M&A, data, privacy, intellectual property, disputes and corporate governance.
She holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and a Bachelor of Commerce from theUniversity of Tasmania.