Keeping the AIBB on Track, A Look Inside the Secretariat
Keeping the AIBB on Track, A Look Inside the Secretariat
At the heart of the Australian Institute of Business Brokers (AIBB) is a professional Secretariat that keeps the organisation running smoothly behind the scenes. This team, comprising Secretariat members Zoe McLaren and Mel Erbsland, provides vital support to the Board and membership, overseeing everything from national conferences and education programs to compliance and communications.
While many professionals engage with the AIBB through events and training, it is Zoe and Mel who ensure the Institute’s operations stay aligned, responsive, and focused on delivering value to members across Australia.
Professional Operations, Seamlessly Delivered
Zoe McLaren has over 20 years of experience working alongside business brokers. Her professional knowledge and administrative expertise provide a strong foundation for the AIBB’s daily operations.
“We coordinate everything from membership services and education to compliance, Board and committee meetings, and our national conference,” said Zoe. “It’s about ensuring all areas of the Institute are working together efficiently and delivering on our goals.”
Mel Erbsland brings a background in marketing and communications to the Secretariat, managing event coordination, member communications, and digital engagement.
“We run multiple online events each week, edit and share recordings, and ensure members have ongoing access to learning and development opportunities,” Mel said.
Together, the Secretariat operates as a unified team ensuring that every aspect of the Institute’s operations reflects its high standards and commitment to its members.
Supporting Professional Development Through Education
Education is a core pillar of the AIBB’s mission, and the Secretariat plays a central role in coordinating training pathways for members.
“When someone joins the AIBB, we enrol them into the Best Practice course, manage the delivery, and track their progress throughout the 12 months,” Zoe explained. “We work closely with experienced presenters to deliver a comprehensive introduction to business broking best practices.”
The Institute also promotes the Certified Professional Business Broker (CPBB) designation, a key credential that sets professionals apart in the marketplace.
“Approximately half of our membership holds CPBB certification,” Zoe noted. “It’s the qualification we highlight to business owners when they’re seeking a trusted, experienced broker.”
For professionals looking to enhance their expertise further, the Registered Business Valuer (RBV) course provides specialist training in valuations.
“The RBV is an advanced program that builds on the fundamentals in CPBB,” Zoe added. “We currently have around 90 members who have completed it, which reflects the strength and depth of our professional community.”
Compliance and Industry Standards
As part of its responsibilities, the Secretariat supports compliance and regulatory engagement for AIBB members across Australia.
“Our members are subject to licensing and CPD requirements,” said Zoe. “We’ve developed training that is tailored specifically to business brokers, and have worked with Fair Trading offices to ensure it meets their approval.”
The Secretariat also supports the Institute’s governance processes and works closely with the Board to ensure effective leadership and accountability.
“We facilitate Board operations and handle policy and procedural matters, and when complaints are raised, we work with the Complaints Chair to assess and respond appropriately,” she said. “Fortunately, complaints are rare, but we take every concern seriously and follow due process.” Zoe explained.
Preparing for 2025 Conference
With the 2025 AIBB National Conference approaching, the Secretariat is busy managing preparations for one of the most important events on the Institute’s calendar.
“This year’s conference will be held at Adelaide Oval, a world-class venue that offers an ideal setting for professional development and networking,” Mel said.
The event will feature nine keynote speakers and a schedule designed to give every attendee a great learning opportunity.
“Our speaker program blends traditional business broking topics with broader professional themes like mental resilience and adaptability,” Mel explained. “The feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive, and registration numbers are already strong.”
The Gala Dinner will once again recognise excellence in the profession, with Bernie Vince, a former AFL player and SAFM presenter confirmed as this year’s host.
A Commitment to the Profession
The AIBB Secretariat plays a pivotal role in ensuring the Institute runs efficiently and continues to support its members with integrity and purpose. With complementary skill sets and a shared commitment to excellence, Zoe and Mel form the operational backbone of the AIBB.
“Our role is to create the conditions for business broking professionals to thrive,” said Zoe. “The AIBB Help Desk has become a valuable resource, and strong engagement in our training programs has fostered a genuine sense of community.”
From daily operations to national strategy, the Secretariat ensures the AIBB remains focused, future-ready, and led with professionalism at every level.
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