About Us

Philip Cooke (Inventor): Executive Director, Head of Operations and R&D

Philip is an engineering innovation specialist with qualifications and 40 years’ experience in heavy engineering in Australia, Singapore and Malaysia, specialising in the recycling industry. Philip is the founder of Mattrec and inventor and patent holder of several international granted patents including the current automated mattress recycling and associated process technologies. Philip and Cheryn are also the key stakeholders in Mattrec and therefore their work is their life.

Cheryn Cooke: Head of Logistics, Marketing and Communication

Cheryn wears many hats at Mattrec but none more important than coordinating our mattress pick up and facility management. As one of the founders along with her husband Phil, Cheryn has been on the Mattrec journey for a number of years from inception to today. Cheryn has a penchant for making sure the team are focused and driven to achieve our lofty goals.

Richard Sheargold: Managing Director

Richard has had 32 years in investment banking, funds management and financial services experience running his own financial services license and business for the past 20 years. Richard brings a wealth of business experience and contract negotiation to Mattrec. Richard holds a Bachelor of Finance, is a chartered accountant and holds an Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning

Steve Gibbs: Chairman

Steve has considerable experience as a non-executive director of private and public companies. He is currently non-executive chairman of Australian Ethical Investment and Netlinkz, both ASX listed companies and is a member of the audit risk and compliance committees of both companies. His prior non-executive director appointments included Hastings funds management, Westpac funds management, Boeing Australia and the Port of Melbourne Authority. Steve has a Bachelor of Economics and an MBA.