We exist to improve society
Our values
Our story
In 2003, Marty and Ryan embarked on a journey fuelled by a simple vision. Starting as a modest venture, bdna has evolved into a company dedicated to transforming organisations and championing positive disruption to improve society.
With a team now exceeding 100 members, our client commitment has always been straightforward: we are easy to work with, aligned with our clients’ goals, and focused on delivering value.
Guided by our purpose, we continuously ask ourselves: “How can we best improve society?”. This drives us to carefully select our clients and partnerships that truly impact lives for the better.
The future of bdna is looking brighter than ever, and we can’t wait to continue our journey to innovate and make an even greater impact on society.
Below are some of the highlights of our journey so far:
2003
Bdna’s founders, Marty and Ryan, crossed paths while working on a major policing system implementation, igniting a partnership that would shape their future endeavours.
2007
Marty and Ryan, together with some key partners and colleagues started a company called 3inc to provide business analysis and project implementation services.
2008
There is nothing like starting a bit of adversity that forges a team together. As the GFC hit the team had to branch out to include other types of clients and expand nation-wide.
2009
The evolution from 3inc to bdna including diversifying offerings to include a suite of services, encompassing business analysis, project management, and technical support with a returned focus on work that makes a difference in society.
2009
Curious why we are called bdna? We chose "bdna" because it captures our view that every business has its own unique DNA, shaping who they are beyond the logos and ads, right down to their core value and what makes them different. The letters bdna are in our logo – can you see it?
2011
Innovation took centre stage with the development of a new venture, Vissafe, a pioneering portable IP CCTV startup. It provided invaluable lessons on overcoming technological challenges, grasping market needs, and adapting to fast-evolving industry dynamics.
2012
Bdna continued to broaden its service portfolio to include fixed-price solutions, time & materials consulting, and technical expertise.
2015
Bdna responded to client needs by providing forensic-register implementation and support services.
2018
Bdna’s Brisbane headquarters were established, including growing delivery and management teams.
2019
Bdna embarked on its first international consulting engagement!
2020
Bdna was well positioned to maintain momentum through the pandemic, with working flexibly already a norm. A significant milestone came in late 2020 with the acquisition of the forensic-register IP from Queensland Police Service, and embarked upon a refresh and expansion of its capabilities and market presence. Bdna moved into a bigger office as we continued to grow.
2022
The company experienced a remarkable 50% growth through the COVID period, affirming its position as a dynamic leader in the industry and demonstrated that it’s possible to thrive and grow while continue to improve society.
2023
The forensic-register turned 20!
2024
Bdna turned 18! We continue to grow, maintaining a strong consulting and delivery team as well as expanding from our first flagship product – the forensic-register, to a public safety suite which includes 6 products!
Our people and culture
We bring in talented individuals from diverse professional backgrounds to join us at every level, all sharing a common passion for making a positive difference.
We ensure that positive influence is also reflected in the values of how we treat each other. ‘The bdna way’ is our guiding principle which focuses on collaboration and leveraging expertise to deliver a high standard for our clients and to improve society.
Collaboration, trust, support, and respect are integral to how we operate within and across teams. We proactively share our knowledge and insights, and we can rely on each other to do what we say and to rally together to solve any challenges.
Our policies and practices are designed with a focus on enabling high performance and an outcome focus. We regularly gather and provide feedback and invest in continual improvement. We work flexibly to deliver on our commitments and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Our clients’ success is our success; we listen closely to what matters to them and the obstacles they face, and we build real partnerships to provide customised solutions to meet their needs while keeping a positive mindset and approach.
We take pride in keeping bdna in top shape – it benefits our team, our clients, and society as a whole.
Meet our leadership team
Our leadership team combines deep industry expertise with a genuine understanding of our customers. We foster an open-door culture where everyone is driven by our values to make a real impact.
Our social commitment
We are committed to creating positive and lasting change for our clients and the communities we live in.
Follow us
Ryan, CO-founder and CEO of bdna, brings over three decades of leadership experience in commercial and public sectors across Australia and globally.
Known for spearheading large-scale transformation initiatives, he actively drives bdna’s vision while fostering a culture of mentorship and innovation.
With a strategic focus on sustainable growth, Ryan collaborates across industries, including health, law enforcement, and nonprofits, to deliver impact-driven results.
Marty Wauchope
Chief Technology Officer
A founding member of bdna, Marty brings over 30 years of global consulting experience across public safety, utilities, mining, construction, eHealth, and commercial sectors.
As bdna’s Chief Technology Officer, he focusses on risk management, information security, and technology compliance to ensure bdna remains safe and resilient.
Known for delivering high-quality, transformative outcomes, Marty uses his deep industry knowledge to drive impactful solutions that help our clients navigate complex challenges with confidence.
Karyn Smith
Chief Operating Officer
With over 30 years of international, cross-industry experience, Karyn excels in strategic planning, organisational transformation, and performance improvement.
As bdna’s Chief Operating Officer, she oversees people, brand, and finances, keeping the company humming, healthy, and happy. Known for her dynamic leadership and strong communication skills, Karyn motivates and empowers teams to deliver sustainable, impactful results.
Passionate about making a difference, she focuses on not only achieving outcomes but also ensuring they’re delivered with care and respect for those involved.
Henry Vesander
Chief Product Officer
Henry combines a passion for technology with extensive experience in product management, customer success, and channel management.
Trusted to drive growth and digital transformation, he has a strong track record in developing innovative products and go-to-market strategies.
As bdna’s Chief Product Officer, Henry leads our product vision, focusing on our SaaS Public Safety Suite to ensure we meet—and exceed—the evolving needs of our clients, ensuring we deliver maximum value through strategic innovation.
Leigh Johnston
Chief Commercial Officer
With over 20 years of experience in business consulting and development across the UK and Australia, Leigh has guided clients from diverse industries in adopting best-practice tools and strategies to gain a competitive edge.
As bdna’s Chief Commercial Officer, she leads enterprise business development and customer relationship management, driving improvements in business performance and sales effectiveness.
Her approach has consistently helped clients boost market share, enhance customer satisfaction, and increase employee engagement.
An advocate for technology and innovation, Eugene has extensive experience in analysing, designing, and delivering enterprise solutions in complex environments.
With a background in State and Federal Government, he’s recognised for bridging the gap between technical and business needs, driven by a belief that anything is achievable with the right approach.
As bdna’s Chief Delivery Officer, Eugene leads delivery excellence, creating impactful solutions for a safer, healthier future.