Brian Keogh

Director | Evaluator & Strategist Brian is a director, evaluator and strategist with more than 20 years’ experience helping governments and organisations understand what is working, what is not, and why—so they can invest wisely in water, environment and climate programs.

Areas of Expertise

• Program evaluation
• Systems thinking
• Mixed methods analysis
• Monitoring and evaluation framworks
• Water and environmental policy
• Environment and climate
• Adaptive management
• Strategic planning
• Cost benefit analysis
• Market and non-market pricing

Professional Profile Brian is a director, evaluator and strategist with more than 20 years’ experience helping governments and organisations make better decisions in complex policy and program environments. His work spans water, environment, climate and public policy. He applies systems thinking, mixed methods and decision-focused analysis to help clients understand what is working, what is not, and where change is needed. His approach combines analytical rigour with practical implementation to support strategy, evaluation and adaptive management.

As Director and co-founder of Cobalt59, Brian brings deep experience in evaluation and strategic advisory work, helping clients respond to complexity with clarity and purpose.

selected experience Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Audits Brian has led evaluation and audit work in the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment, supporting government efforts to assess how effectively land and water management programs are protecting catchment health and securing drinking water quality for Sydney.

Program Evaluation and Adaptive Management Brian has designed and delivered program evaluations and adaptive management frameworks across water, environment and community settings. His work helps clients understand what is working, where change is needed, and how evidence can support continuous improvement in real-world conditions.

Strategic Planning and Investment Analysis Brian has provided strategic planning, cost-benefit and investment analysis support across water, climate and infrastructure-related programs. He helps clients clarify options, test assumptions and make stronger decisions under conditions of uncertainty.

Qualifications and Memberships Academic Qualifications Master of Business Administration (MBA), University of New South Wales and University of Sydney Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), University of New South Wales Professional Roles & Memberships Chairperson, Australian Evaluation Society Systems Evaluation Special Interest Group Member, AES Professional Education Committee (NSW) Board Director, multiple not-for-profit organisations focused on strategy and governance Recognition Recipient of PRIA National and State awards for Communication with Government Centenary Medal