Salus Ventures appoints Dr Shane Arnott as Senior Advisor

Salus Ventures has announced the appointment of Dr Shane Arnott to its Strategic Advisor Program.

The programme, initiated last December, includes other notable figures such as Paul Symon AO, The Hon. Arthur Sinodinos AO, and Rear Admiral Lee Goddard CSC. Salus Ventures focuses on supporting Australia's national resilience and fostering technological advancement within the country's defence sector.

Dr Arnott currently serves as Senior Vice President at Anduril Industries, where he directs programs and engineering teams. He brings extensive technical expertise and experience in deep technology and national security. His career includes significant executive roles across various sectors, particularly technology, aerospace, and defence.

Previously, Dr Arnott spent over two decades with the Boeing Group, where he distinguished himself as one of the company's top lead engineers and was recognised as the first non-American Senior Technical Fellow. His leadership in the Ghost Bat and Ghost Shark programmes has provided him with a deep understanding of air and naval technology innovation.

Based in Southern California, Dr Arnott's international and domestic experience is expected to contribute significantly to Salus Ventures' mission, which aims to create pathways for founders in emerging industries and address critical challenges faced by Australia and its allies.

Over the past year, Salus Ventures reviewed more than 1,000 companies focusing on challenges in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and defence, among other fields, and has invested in 12 startups. The fund is committed to deploying more than USD $250 million over the next five years.

Dan Bennett, Salus Ventures' General Partner and Co-Founder, commented on Dr Arnott's appointment, saying, "Shane's deep technical knowledge and extensive background in defence and national security adds immense value to our portfolio companies and investment strategies."

Mr Bennett emphasised the firm's strategy, noting, "His expertise underscores our ongoing commitment to building a uniquely equipped team that marries private sector innovation with public sector goals."

Dr Arnott remarked on his new role, stating, "It's an honour to join Salus Ventures as a Senior Advisor. I look forward to collaborating with the team to advance critical sovereign capabilities, contribute to defending democracy, and foster innovation within Australia's tech ecosystem."

The venture capital firm leverages decades of experience and has previously raised and invested more than USD $600 million into deep technology enterprises across the US, Europe, and Australia. Its network of elite advisors provides significant insights into procurement and capability requirements, maintaining strong connections with government initiatives.

Marten Peck, another General Partner and Co-Founder of Salus Ventures, noted, "Salus is focused on investments that build Australia's sovereign capabilities, ensuring long-term resilience and innovation for the nation and its allies. Shane's appointment is a continuation of our efforts to bolster Australia's position in the global technology landscape."