Damian Kassabgi joins the TCA to continue the mission towards 1.2 million jobs by 2030
CANBERRA, 30 April 2024 – The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) has today announced the appointment of its new CEO, Damian Kassabgi.
TCA Chair, Robyn Denholm, welcomed Damian on behalf of the Board. “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Damian Kassabgi to the role of CEO of the TCA.”
“Damian has valuable experience in our sector and is committed to helping us reach our shared goal of 1.2 million tech workers by 2030,” Ms. Denholm said.
TCA’s incoming CEO expressed his excitement about joining the organisation at such a critical time for the tech sector in the Australian economy. “I have long been an advocate for our sector and believe the Australian tech sector is one of the most dynamic and ambitious seen anywhere in the world,” Mr Kassabgi said.
“The tech industry has given me an amazing career and I hope to be a role model for people looking to enter the industry.”
“I grew up in a household where my parents spoke English as a second language, and I attended public schools. I hope to show others that a person from low-socio economic or migrant backgrounds can create a meaningful career in technology.”
“I feel honoured that the Board has entrusted me to drive the organisation forward. I am excited to begin working with the exceptional team and look forward to meeting our incredible members as soon as possible,” Mr Kassabgi said.
Damian joins the TCA having previously held senior leadership roles at Afterpay, Uber and Google. He also has extensive experience in the public sector having leadership roles in the offices of two Prime Ministers.
The Board also noted the contribution of Ryan Black, Head of Policy, who has been acting in the role of CEO for the past five months.
“Ryan has always been an asset to the TCA. His keen policy eye and ability to safely steer the TCA over the last five months has been deeply appreciated by the Board,” Ms. Denholm noted.
“We look forward to continuing to work with Ryan as he leads the organisation’s strategic policy and advocacy work,” Ms. Denholm added.
A global CEO search was conducted by executive search firm Hourigan International, who were successful in identifying an exceptional field of candidates for what was a challenging and targeted brief.
Anthony Hourigan, Chair noted that “there are few candidates in Australia like Damian Kassabgi, who understand Australian tech businesses, the future of technology, and its potential impact for Australian society the way he does.”
“Damian is uniquely qualified to grow and enrich value for the TCA’s members, and to further position the TCA as a trusted advisor to key policymakers,” said the firm’s Associate Partner, Skye Lockhart.
Damian will officially begin in the role on 11 June 2024.
– ENDS –
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
