Our people
Our team combines decades of specialised experience across the flavour and food science industries. We have flavourists with over 25 years of experience at leading global flavour houses, alongside food scientists who have managed technical teams at major retail organisations.
This background gives us a practical understanding of the challenges you face. Our team have worked through complex technical constraints, managed demanding project timelines, and successfully scaled formulations from initial concept through to full production environments.
When you partner with Sensate, you gain access to specialists who understand your industry requirements and can navigate the complexities of flavour and colour development to achieve your product goals.
Senior Leadership
Keith de Vries
Founder & Managing Director
Keith founded Sensate in 1993 and continues to lead the business with vision and resilience. With over three decades of experience in the food industry, Keith brings a deep understanding of customer needs and flavour development. His leadership has shaped Sensate’s values around integrity, responsiveness, and long-term partnerships. Keith remains focused on innovation, strategic growth, and ensuring the company evolves with the changing needs of the market.
Stuart Borgonha
General Manager - Operations
Stuart leads Sensate’s operations with a clear focus on delivering quality, consistency, and results. With extensive experience in logistics, procurement and operational management, Stuart plays a key role in aligning teams, streamlining processes, and supporting strategic decision-making. He is known for his calm leadership style, commitment to team development, and dedication to maintaining high standards across all departments.
Leah Williamson
General Manager - Technical, Risk & Compliance
With a distinguished career in FMCG across manufacturing and retail in senior leadership and executive roles, Leah is a recipient of the Ross Peters Award for Excellence in Food Safety and was a top 5 finalist in the Telstra Australian Businesswoman of the Year. As a passionate, future, vision-focused leader and mentor, Leah’s leadership drives Sensate’s journey to strive for excellence.
Nicky de Vries
Head of Sales and Marketing
Nicky is Head of Sales and Marketing for Sensate. Nicky leads the sales team as well as serving customers across NSW, QLD, and ACT along with major projects nationwide. With over two decades of experience in sales and marketing in the health and food sectors, she’s focused on growing partnerships and delivering tailored flavour solutions. Nicky brings commercial strategy, client insight, and a collaborative approach to every opportunity.
Max Kleyn
Technical Sales Manager (Flavourist)
Max brings over 25 years of expertise in flavour development and technical sales, having worked with leading flavour houses in the Netherlands, Australia and New Zealand. At Sensate, Max supports customers in crafting tailored flavour solutions across diverse applications. He is valued for his hands-on approach, deep technical knowledge, and collaborative mindset that drives innovation and product excellence.
Admin, Finance, Purchasing & HR Support
Heidi Dinh
Administration Manager (Admin, Finance & HR)
Heidi plays a critical role in strengthening the structure and efficiency of Sensate’s administration department. With expertise across accounts, payroll, HR, and administration, she has streamlined systems, driven efficiency, and implemented targeted process improvements that support business performance. Heidi is also central to team support and resource coordination, helping ensure the smooth operation of core business functions.
Hannah Marshman
Customer Service Administration Officer
Hannah Marshman plays a key role in customer service and order processing at Sensate. With a background in hospitality and office management, she brings a calm and dependable presence to back-office operations. Hannah supports the team by maintaining accurate records, assisting with customer billing, and ensuring consistent service across day-to-day activities.
Andrea Shanahan
Procurement Associate
Andrea Shanahan is responsible for procurement and sourcing at Sensate. With experience in manufacturing, supply chain, and systems management, she plays a key role in ensuring ingredient quality, supplier relationships, and cost efficiency. Andrea is known for her structured approach, problem-solving ability, and dedication to operational excellence.