Kris Inkster

Founder | Director

Kris Inkster is the co-founder of Melbourne Business Mentors and a seasoned business coach Melbourne clients turn to when they’re ready to move from early success into strategic, sustainable growth.

With a background spanning science, major project management, executive leadership and board governance, Kris brings a rare blend of analytical thinking, calm leadership and real-world business experience.

Early Career & Foundations

Kris began his career in science, completing a Bachelor of Science (Geoscience) and a Master of Science (Environmental Biochemistry). This scientific grounding shaped his approach to business—analytical, data-driven, methodical and focused on understanding trends and behaviours.

Kris moved into environmental consulting with Cardno Lane Piper, quickly progressing into leadership roles. He managed teams on-site, delivered complex multi-million-dollar remediation projects for clients including large multi-national petrochemical companies, and rose to Senior Project Manager.

Start Training — CEO & Industry Leader

Kris joined Start Training in 2017 as Manager and became CEO in 2020. Achievements include:
• Year of Year Revenue growth of 40-50%
• Expansion from 1 venue to 6 across Melbourne
• Growth from 25 reviews to over 3,000 five-star reviews
• Strong regulatory relationships
• Digital transformation including e-learning and AI adoption

Fernbrook School — Board Leadership & Community Impact

Kris joined Fernbrook School shortly after its founding and later became Board Chair. He led its growth from 13 to 100+ students, secured high school expansion, relocated the campus and strengthened governance and wellbeing initiatives.

Entrepreneurship & Other Ventures

• Co-founder — Melbourne Business Mentors
• Founder — Orcadia (scaled to $250k/year)
• Developing a first-aid supply company
• Ongoing advisory/director roles

Consulting Style & Strengths

Kris specialises in helping growing businesses transition from ad-hoc operations to structured, scalable organisations.

Strengths:
• Strategy
• Leadership
• Governance
• Scaling operations
• Emerging technologies

Leadership Philosophy
Kris stays calm under pressure, believes problems are solvable and prioritises wellbeing alongside performance.

Credentials

• Bachelor of Science (Geoscience)
• Master of Science (Environmental Biochemistry)
• Diploma of Project Management
• Member — Australian Institute of Directors