Shaping the Future of Sustainable Packaging

At Varden, we are a dedicated team of innovators, engineers, and sustainability advocates committed to revolutionising packaging. Our diverse expertise drives our mission to provide high-performance, plant-based packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact and meet the evolving needs of global markets.

We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, working closely with clients to design, prototype, and commercialise packaging that not only preserves product integrity but also champions sustainability.

Stuart thrives on solving problems, particularly in replacing plastic packaging with natural fibers at Varden. Previously, he was a senior product designer for top brands, creating future-focused solutions. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling, especially challenging hill climbs.

Stuart Gordon

Co-Founder, CEO

Mark excels in organizing creative endeavors, guiding Varden’s teams effectively. A skilled communicator with a passion for the environment, he holds an Honour degree in Environmental Science from London University, and out of work can be found ocean swimming.

Mark Appleford

Co-Founder, COO

Rico leads Varden’s lab research on high-performance barriers, using Monash University’s facilities. He earned his PhD in the UK on surfactant kinetics and nanoparticle stabilization. With over 100 papers in surface and colloidal science, he enjoys bush walks with his dog Marlowe.

Professor Rico Tabor

Head of Research

Matt leads a specific stream of work on high-barrier and biodegradable paper coatings within the research team, building on his PhD in colloids and surface science. When not in the lab he is probably fishing somewhere quiet.

Dr Matthew Pottage

Senior Researcher

Liam leads our research into fibre and nanofibre across all our product lines. With a double degree in Chemisty and Engineering he has a passion for sustainability.

Liam Methven

Researcher

Jenicka is a researcher in our coatings team, with particular responsibility for executing the complicated multi-variate trials of prospective new coatings. With a double degree in Engineering and Pharmaceutical Science, she has a passion for travel and photography.

Jenicka Ly

Researcher

Holly, a researcher in our coatings team with degrees in Materials Engineering and Chemistry, translates lab research into scalable industrial processes. Passionate about sustainability and inspired by the outdoors, she ensures our products positively impact industry and the environment.

Holly Hey

Researcher

Scott is a mechanical engineer who is entrusted with keeping the pilot line at Varden running efficiently 24/7. When he is not fixing our robotic line, he is either playing sport, or cheering on the South African team (in any sport!)

Scott Austen

Maintenance Engineer

Campbell has a strong technical background built on 20 years of experience in engineering including leadership roles working in FMCG and manufacturing. When he’s not finding solutions at work, you’ll find him experimenting in the kitchen creating sweet treats with his family.

Campbell Brown

Engineering Lead

Jacqui loves walking her dog, Honey, along the beach every day, rain, hail or shine! Jacqui enjoys family time camping, travelling, gardening, reading and cooking.

Jacqui Morel

Accounts Administrator

Your next role.

At Varden, we are always looking for passionate innovators. We are keen to hear from you.
In the first instance, please contact us here.

We support the Australian Governments Anti-Modern slavery programme. You can read more details about this here.
Read our Anti-Modern Slavery statement here.