Our Team

Mark is an award-winning architect with diverse business interests. In partnership with Ken Loughton he developed a practice renowned Australia-wide in the aged-care field, before diversifying into property development and manufacturing. The Loughton Patterson group of companies owns and manages commercial property, develops land and operates an expanding premium aged-care business. Their investment initiatives also include mining and international finance.

Mark and Ken's Newseason Foundation is a multimillion-dollar fund that supports local church and mission initiatives particularly focused on women and children. In 2006 they established Transform Cambodia.

Mark and his wife Andrea have seven children. They serve as part of the leadership at Metro Church, Perth.

Perth Architect, businessman, entrepreneur and property developer Ken Loughton is a co-founder and director of Transform Cambodia and of the diverse Loughton Patterson Group of companies. After completing his Bachelor of Architecture at the University of WA Ken then studied at Regent College in Vancouver.

Ken and his wife Lorraine live in Sorrento, Perth and are keen members of Riverview Church. They are passionate about connecting people, encouraging growth and excellence in the Christian business community, and in building the Kingdom of God.

Paul Mergard is the Chief Executive Officer of Transform Cambodia, bringing more than 25 years of leadership and advocacy experience to the organisation. Throughout his career, Paul has dedicated himself to helping children escape the cycle of poverty and exploitation and achieve their full potential.

Before joining Transform Cambodia in October 2025, Paul served as CEO of Destiny Rescue Australia and also held leadership roles with The Salvation Army and Compassion Australia.
His work has taken him to some of the world’s most disadvantaged communities, where he has seen both the hardship of poverty and the hope that opportunity can bring.

Trained as an accountant with KPMG, Paul holds postgraduate qualifications in International Development and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He also serves on the board of Churches of Christ Qld.

Paul combines strong strategic and financial insight with deep humanitarian experience and remains committed to ensuring every child has the chance to learn, lead and thrive.

Rachel is a qualified CPA and the General Manager of Transform Cambodia. With a strong background as a financial analyst in the mining, energy and resources sector, and over 10 years of experience in the non-profit sector, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role.

Driven by her convictions on justice, freedom, and community, Rachel is passionate about helping individuals of all ages discover their God-given purpose and identity.

Rachel is married to Aaron, and together they are proud parents of Matilda and Nate.

Therese joined us in July 2016 and looks after accounts. She enjoys music, nature and being active. Praying is one of her passions. She holds an Accounting degree and loves being married to her best friend Cedric.

Lara has more than 25 years’ experience working in general insurance across a variety of underwriting, broking, risk management, sales and leadership roles. Lara’s long-time career focus on clients in the faith, education and not-for-profit sectors informs her understanding of the unique challenges facing such organisations.

In 2021, Lara joined Transform Cambodia and in her role as Partnerships Administrator, she uses her excellent people skills to support all our sponsors, partners, and team in Phnom Penh.

Lara is married to Mark and together they have two adult children and actively serve at Metro Church.