Australia’s leading speaker bureau acquired by next-gen talent and technology Company, modernising the brand, corporate and event industry

April 2025 - Launchd, the business underpinned by a powerful talent activation platform and transforming the sports, entertainment and influencer landscape, has acquired iconic Australian speaker bureau ICMI, uniting traditional keynote and event speaker expertise, with cutting-edge technology and brand campaign execution.

The acquisition cements Launchd’s position as Australia’s largest platform for sport and entertainment talent, connecting brands and corporates with over 5,000 athletes, influencers, entertainers and speakers. Launchd is solving the current pain points for brands and corporates with an end-to-end service offering delivering strategy, talent representation, campaign execution and tracking of contracted deliverables.

“This is a defining moment for our industry,” said James Begley, CEO and Founder of Launchd. “By bringing ICMI into the Launchd ecosystem, we’re bridging the old world of keynote speakers with the new world of data, speed, and digital influence. As the world accelerates toward digital engagement, the value of live, in-person experiences has never been more valuable and important. The acquisition of ICMI reinforces our commitment to being the one-stop destination for brands and corporates seeking impact across every channel.”

Founded by former AFL stars Begley and Matthew Pavlich, Launchd has rapidly expanded through a series of strategic acquisitions across talent management and keynote speaking industries. The integration of ICMI adds a trusted and respected business with immense corporate event capability and experience to Launchd’s growing portfolio.

“We’re building a single destination for impact and influence,” said Pavlich. “Whether it’s a business expert or scientist addressing a boardroom, or an Olympian fronting a digital campaign, businesses and brands want talent that moves the needle, and we’ve built the platform that makes that possible.”

The Power Behind the Deal

ICMI has delivered speakers and entertainers for Australia’s leading companies for over 35 years

Launchd supports more than 100,000 talent activations annually, including for the AFL and Cricket Australia via its SaaS technology and Pickstar market place

Influencer marketing spend is forecast to reach $43 billion dollars by 2027, with execution and measurement still the number one challenge for marketers

Launchd is backed by Altor Capital, which invested millions to fuel expansion and technology growth

The deal will see ICMI continue to operate under its well-known name, with enhanced capabilities and cross-selling ability, but under the new banner: ICMI, powered by Launchd.

A Legacy Transformed

Founder and CEO of ICMI Barry Markoff said: “Building ICMI over nearly 40 years has been one of the great privileges of my life. We’ve created a highly respected, profitable and resilient business – one that’s stood the test of time because of the exceptional people behind it and our deep expertise in the industry. 

When the Launchd team shared their vision for where influence and talent partnerships are heading, I knew it was the right fit. They’re bringing fresh energy, smart technology and a bold growth strategy that will take ICMI to the next level. I’m proud of what we’ve built – and excited to see it thrive as part of something even bigger.”

“ICMI has always been about connecting the right voice with the right audience. With Launchd, we can now offer our clients deeper insights, faster turnarounds, and integrated campaign tools, while staying true to the personal service we’re known for.”

Launchd’s model offers brands a comprehensive solution, encompassing talent sourcing, campaign planning, creative production, approvals, reporting, and now traditional keynote and MC representation at scale.

The group’s 78 staff across Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide and Auckland will support growing demand, with expansion into the UK and US on the near horizon.

“We’re not just elevating talent,” said Begley. “We’re changing the way the world works with it.”