Strengthening board to drive towards 1.2 million jobs by 2030
CANBERRA , Australia – June 25, 2024 – The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of two exceptional leaders of the Australian tech sector to its board of directors, further strengthening its commitment to reaching 1.2 million tech workers by 2030 and advocating for Australia’s tech ecosystem.
Richard White, CEO of WiseTech Global Ltd, and Eglantine Etiemble, Group Chief Technology Officer at PEXA Group, bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to the TCA’s mission.
Mr White is a renowned leader in the tech industry and has an impressive track record of driving digital transformation across various sectors for more than 30 years. As the founder and CEO of WiseTech Global (ASX:WTC), Mr White has played a pivotal role in nurturing innovation and supporting tech ecosystems both locally and globally.
His personal passion for advancing STEM education saw WiseTech Global Ltd pledge 1% of its annual pre-tax profit to enable tech education initiatives for school-age children in addition to launching the innovative WiseTech Earn & Learn program offering Year 12 school leavers a full-time, paid job as a software developer, while supporting them through a four-year university degree in computer science.
Mr White said of his appointment “I have been passionate about the TCA since its early days. Technology will be critical in driving our nation’s economic prosperity, building on our heritage as challengers, creative problem solvers and innovators. Helping to grow Australia’s advanced technology skills will be critical to that success. Together with my fellow directors, and members, I look forward to helping to drive these goals.”
Ms Etiemble is a versatile global executive. She has delivered complex projects and led technology teams in over 20 countries across Europe, the Americas and Asia-Pacific in consulting, telco, manufacturing, retail and consumer goods. Prior to joining PEXA Group, Eglantine led Dulux Group’s IT and Digital team for over four years.
Passionate about diversity of gender and background, Eglantine has been involved as a mentor with asylum seekers and women in IT organisations.
Ms Etiemble reflected “It is an honour to be part of the Tech Council of Australia. As technology continues to be a vital pillar of our economy and society, I look forward to working with the TCA to foster innovation, and drive an equitable, diverse, and people-focused approach to technology, ensuring Australia’s leadership in the global digital landscape”
The pair’s understanding of the digital economy and their strategic vision will significantly contribute to the TCA’s efforts in shaping Australia’s technological landscape, TCA Chair Robyn Denholm said.
“We are thrilled to welcome Richard White and Eglantine Etiemble to the board of the Tech Council of Australia.”
“Their experience and leadership will be instrumental in guiding our strategic direction and enhancing our impact on the technology sector. We look forward to both of their contributions as we continue to advocate for policies and initiatives that support the growth and success of Australian technology companies,” Ms Denholm said.
Mr White and Ms Etiemble were appointed at the TCA’s annual general meeting on June 26. TCA Board Director Anthony Eisen, co-founder of Afterpay, was also reappointed. In addition, Damian Kassabgi was ratified as a director, following his appointment as CEO, and Victor Dominello was also ratified as a director.
Stepping down from the Board is inaugural director Mina Radhakrishnan. On behalf of the Board, Ms Denholm thanked Mina for her contribution.
“Mina has brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the Board, especially as an incredible entrepreneur, sharing experience of both multinational technology and scaling and growing companies. We look forward to Mina remaining closely connected to TCA,” Ms Denholm said.
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About the TCA
The Tech Council of Australia is the peak industry body for Australia’s tech sector. Providing a trusted voice for Australia’s technology industry, with over 160 members, the Tech Council comprises the full spectrum of tech companies.
We aim to advise and engage with Australian governments, businesses, and the wider community to help support the ongoing creation, development, and adoption of technology across industries. Our vision is for a prosperous Australia that thrives by harnessing the power of technology.
Media enquiries
Kate Lord
media@techcouncil.com.au
0432 448 248
