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Angela Robinson
Country Managing Director
Publicis Sapient
Publicis Sapient
Caroline McDaid
Chief Executive Officer
WorkVentures
WorkVentures
Carrie Hu
Chief Information Officer
New Aim
New Aim
Cheng Yeo
General Manager Architecture & Strategy
Crown Resorts
Crown Resorts
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Colleen Pender
Program Director
NAB
NAB
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Dominique Barker
Chief Information Officer
Australian Institute of Family Studies
Australian Institute of Family Studies
Elena Little
General Manager of Omnichannel Product
MECCA Brands
MECCA Brands
Ellenor Cox
Executive Master Coach
GAIA Coaching
GAIA Coaching
Forough Khandan
Chief Technology Officer
EMVision Medical Devices
EMVision Medical Devices
Gaby Carney
Senior Fellow, Strategic AI, UTS Human Technology Institute
University of Technology Sydney
University of Technology Sydney
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Hayley Sheppard
Head of Digital Solutions
TasNetworks
TasNetworks
Helen Lau
General Manager – Engineering Platforms
Commonwealth Bank
Commonwealth Bank
Isabel Bray
Digital Product Manager
MECCA Brands
MECCA Brands
Jennifer Mulveny
Government Relations & Public Policy Director, Asia-Pacific
Adobe
Adobe
Karen Katz
Co-Managing Director & Co-Founder
Her Tech Circle
Her Tech Circle
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Katrina Troughton
Vice President & Managing Director
Adobe ANZ
Adobe ANZ
Lucy Poole
Deputy Chief Executive Officer – Strategy, Planning & Performance
Digital Transformation Agency
Digital Transformation Agency
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May Lam
Chief Information Officer
Australian Payments Plus
Australian Payments Plus
Miranda Ratajski
Chief Information Officer, Group Business Units
Westpac
Westpac
Mirella Robinson
Chief Technology Officer
Acenda
Acenda
Natalie Saunders
Head of Technology – Service Management
AGL
AGL
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Nicole Nixon
Chief Executive Officer
Five Faces
Five Faces
Pia Seeto
Technology Transition Lead & Head of Planning & Reporting Technology Governance
TPG Telecom
TPG Telecom
Rekha Anand
Head of Information Technology Services
MinterEllison
MinterEllison
Renece Brewster
Co-Founder & Co-Managing Director
Her Tech Circle
Her Tech Circle
Sam Love
Executive, Product & Technology
Quantium Telstra
Quantium Telstra
Sarah Carney
National Chief Technology Officer ANZ
Microsoft
Microsoft
Sarah Vale
Head of Technology Architecture
Domain
Domain
Stevie-Ann Dovico
Group Executive for Technology & Chief Information Officer
Suneetha Bodduluri
Chief Technology Officer
Service NSW
Service NSW
Susan Gibson
Head of Data Analytics & AI
University of Technology Sydney
University of Technology Sydney
Suzie Cardwell
Chief Data Product & Technology Officer
Nine
Nine
Tracey Evans
Group Chief Information & Digital Officer
Virtus Health
Virtus Health
Ellenor Cox
Executive Master CoachGAIA Coaching
Ellenor has spent over 30 years breaking barriers across industries - from becoming one of QANTAS’s youngest female executives to producing Emmy™ award-winning films. Today, she brings that same blend of creativity, strategy and leadership into her coaching practice, helping executives navigate communication, influence and negotiation with confidence.
A certified Master Coach and leadership facilitator, Ellenor is known for unlocking the “zone of genius” in leaders facing high-stakes decisions and complex change. Her sessions combine brain-based tools with real-world experience, equipping professionals to lead with clarity, impact and resilience.
At Women in Tech Fest 2026, Ellenor will guide participants through practical strategies to sharpen their communication, strengthen negotiation skills, and expand their leadership presence with confidence, empowering them to future-proof their careers and create a lasting impact in a fast-changing tech landscape.
A certified Master Coach and leadership facilitator, Ellenor is known for unlocking the “zone of genius” in leaders facing high-stakes decisions and complex change. Her sessions combine brain-based tools with real-world experience, equipping professionals to lead with clarity, impact and resilience.
At Women in Tech Fest 2026, Ellenor will guide participants through practical strategies to sharpen their communication, strengthen negotiation skills, and expand their leadership presence with confidence, empowering them to future-proof their careers and create a lasting impact in a fast-changing tech landscape.
Speaking at
Masterclass
09:00
Masterclass: Leadership, Communication & Negotiation for Women in Tech
Speaker
Speakers
Ellenor Cox,
Renece Brewster
Co-Founder & Co-Managing DirectorHer Tech Circle
I'm a strong advocate for empowerment, especially for women in their careers. I believe it's essential for all of us to have the confidence to articulate our value and bravely ask for what we want. This conviction drives my work as Co-Founder and Partner of March Collective, where we support women-led scale-up businesses with bespoke advisory services, community support, and growth opportunities. Our mission is to dismantle barriers and foster inclusive business growth.
Using technology to achieve amazing things is another area close to my heart. As Co-Founder and Co-MD of Her Tech Circle, I'm dedicated to fostering connections and growth for women in tech. My experience as Co-Founder of GoList and COO of Workinitiatives also highlights my belief in leveraging innovative solutions to drive success.
My commitment to innovation and impact has been recognised through honours such as being an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Finalist and a Telstra Business Awards Finalist. I often have the privilege of sharing insights on these themes – connection, business growth, supporting women, and the power of technology and networks – at various events.
Speaking at
08:50
Opening remarks from the chair: Who really wins at work?
Speaker
Speakers
Renece Brewster,
Panel Discussion
10:10
Panel discussion: Triumphs, failures & lessons learned on the path to diversity & career success
Speaker
Speakers
Renece Brewster,
Tracey Evans,
Pia Seeto,
Mirella Robinson,
Angela Robinson,
08:50
Opening remarks from the chair
Speaker
Speakers
Renece Brewster,
Sarah Carney
National Chief Technology Officer ANZMicrosoft
From the Australian Army to Microsoft’s tech frontier, Sarah Carney’s journey is anything but ordinary. As the National Technology Officer for Microsoft in Australia and New Zealand, Sarah is the go-to for spotting emerging tech trends and helping the biggest enterprise and government customers navigate the future. She’s also the Responsible AI lead and a proud member of Microsoft’s regional AI product Red Team.
Sarah’s career has taken her across continents and industries—from think tanks in Europe to marketing in the Middle East, and even a stint attending ballet for a living!
Named the 4th most powerful woman in tech in Australia by B&T in 2025 and winner of ARN’s Rising Star award for 2024, Sarah brings a unique, adventurous lens to innovation and the power of technology.
Sarah’s career has taken her across continents and industries—from think tanks in Europe to marketing in the Middle East, and even a stint attending ballet for a living!
Named the 4th most powerful woman in tech in Australia by B&T in 2025 and winner of ARN’s Rising Star award for 2024, Sarah brings a unique, adventurous lens to innovation and the power of technology.
Speaking at
09:10
Career playgrounds not paths - lessons in growth, rejection and resilience
Speaker
Speakers
Sarah Carney,
Colleen Pender
Program DirectorNAB
Colleen is a technology leader with over 20 years working in various industries including IT, Finance, Logistics and Local/State Government. She has significant experience leading technology transformations large‑scale releases and projects. Colleen is currently working at the National Australia Bank on a large transformation and uplift program.
Colleen has worked with senior client and vendor stakeholders spanning over multiple international locations. She has a strong delivery focus and excels at finding solutions to challenges. Her strong communication and negotiation skills help her to operate effectively in complex environments and achieve the best outcomes for organisations and customers. She is a passionate leader and coach who empowers individuals and inspires teams to drive change and continuous improvement.
Colleen has a love of learning, with a Masters of Business Administration, a Masters of Information Systems Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Systems. She also holds multiple project management, technology and cloud certifications, with her latest accomplishment being a Diploma of Building and Construction.
Colleen has worked with senior client and vendor stakeholders spanning over multiple international locations. She has a strong delivery focus and excels at finding solutions to challenges. Her strong communication and negotiation skills help her to operate effectively in complex environments and achieve the best outcomes for organisations and customers. She is a passionate leader and coach who empowers individuals and inspires teams to drive change and continuous improvement.
Colleen has a love of learning, with a Masters of Business Administration, a Masters of Information Systems Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Systems. She also holds multiple project management, technology and cloud certifications, with her latest accomplishment being a Diploma of Building and Construction.
Speaking at
09:40
Concrete strategies to elevate women in tech: leveraging processes, programs and action to move from awareness to results
Speaker
Speakers
Colleen Pender,
Roundtables
Roundtable 6: Strategies to develop strategic and critical thinking
Speaker
Speakers
Colleen Pender,
Tracey Evans
Group Chief Information & Digital OfficerVirtus Health
Tracey Evans is a visionary CIO at the forefront of digital transformation, known for driving large-scale change across complex, matrixed organizations. At the intersection of strategy and innovation, she harnesses disruptive and enabling technologies — such as AWS, Salesforce, SAP, Workday, Splunk, and Microsoft — to enhance business agility and deliver measurable outcomes.
With a ‘culture first’ leadership style, Tracey empowers teams through right-sized technology frameworks that fuel innovation, close capability gaps, and unlock new growth opportunities. She brings extensive experience engaging with Boards and executive teams to translate strategic vision into operational reality. Drawing on a broad industry background - including digital services, financial services, professional services, and Not-For-Profit.
Tracey offers an ‘outside-in’ perspective that’s uniquely suited to today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape. Tenacious, collaborative, and always future-focused, she’s a catalyst for meaningful and sustainable transformation.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
10:10
Panel discussion: Triumphs, failures & lessons learned on the path to diversity & career success
Speaker
Speakers
Renece Brewster,
Tracey Evans,
Pia Seeto,
Mirella Robinson,
Angela Robinson,
Roundtables
Roundtable 7: Thriving in the AI age by leveraging the technology as an opportunity & not a challenge
Speaker
Speakers
Tracey Evans,
Pia Seeto
Technology Transition Lead & Head of Planning & Reporting Technology GovernanceTPG Telecom
Pia Seeto is the Head of Planning and Reporting Technology at TPG Telecom. TPG Telecom’s ambition is to be Australia’s best telco, and Pia helps it achieves this by working with executive technology leaders to plan, structure and articulate the technology services that support TPG Telecom services to the community.
She is Alumni of UNSW Computer Engineering and currently chairs the Industry Advisory Board for the School of Computer Science and Engineering. Pia was awarded the UNSW Engineering, Dr Judy Raper Women in Leadership award in 2014 and has been an active advocate for the school and the work it does to further student careers and build a stronger industry.
Pia is an IT & Telecommunications Professional who loves enabling impact through technology. She is an active learner, passionate about "keeping it real" leadership and thought diversity. She enjoys working with high performing teams and people who are not afraid to try.
She is Alumni of UNSW Computer Engineering and currently chairs the Industry Advisory Board for the School of Computer Science and Engineering. Pia was awarded the UNSW Engineering, Dr Judy Raper Women in Leadership award in 2014 and has been an active advocate for the school and the work it does to further student careers and build a stronger industry.
Pia is an IT & Telecommunications Professional who loves enabling impact through technology. She is an active learner, passionate about "keeping it real" leadership and thought diversity. She enjoys working with high performing teams and people who are not afraid to try.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
10:10
Panel discussion: Triumphs, failures & lessons learned on the path to diversity & career success
Speaker
Speakers
Renece Brewster,
Tracey Evans,
Pia Seeto,
Mirella Robinson,
Angela Robinson,
Mirella Robinson
Chief Technology OfficerAcenda
Mirella is the Chief Technology Officer at Acenda Life Insurance, responsible for information security, data and technology capabilities enabling a business-wide delivery of customer and people experiences.
Mirella has extensive experience in delivering business solutions and technology / digital capabilities that enable engaging experiences. With over 20 years of professional experience, she has built and led business and technology teams across a range of industries including Education, Telco / Media, Retail Energy, Gambling, and Financial Services (Insurance, Banking & Superannuation).
Before joining Acenda, Mirella was the inaugural Chief Information and Technology Officer at Cbus, significantly evolving their Technology and Data Strategy to leverage machine learning and AI practices. Her career includes implementing start-up technology capabilities, leading Online/Internet Banking, ATM networks & Cash Operations teams alongside large digital transformation and delivery.
Mirella holds a BSc (Hons.) in Mathematical Statistics (Monash University), an MBA (Swinburne University of Technology) and Executive Certificate in Digital Models, Leadership & Practices (MIT, Boston).
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
10:10
Panel discussion: Triumphs, failures & lessons learned on the path to diversity & career success
Speaker
Speakers
Renece Brewster,
Tracey Evans,
Pia Seeto,
Mirella Robinson,
Angela Robinson,
Angela Robinson
Country Managing DirectorPublicis Sapient
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
10:10
Panel discussion: Triumphs, failures & lessons learned on the path to diversity & career success
Speaker
Speakers
Renece Brewster,
Tracey Evans,
Pia Seeto,
Mirella Robinson,
Angela Robinson,
Miranda Ratajski
Chief Information Officer, Group Business UnitsWestpac
Miranda Ratajski is a trailblazing CIO with over three decades of experience delivering complex technical and digital business transformations.
She has worked across industries including finance, telecom, and government, leading initiatives that drive innovation, operational excellence, and customer engagement.
Miranda has developed strategic and tactical direction, built high performing teams and enabled service to uplift customer experiences.
Her leadership, focus and business direction results in improved engagement and productivity through enhanced employee experience, delivering significantly engaged teams who have more time to delight customers.
She is passionate about building people-centric cultures and embedding sustainability and diversity in tech strategy.
Community is a strong anchor for Miranda, and she is also a volunteer yoga teacher.
Miranda has been globally recognised as a Fintech Top 100 Woman and an Inclusive Leader.
Miranda’s recent awards and nominations include:
• 2025 Women Leading Tech Power List #15, presented by
Atlassian
▪ 2025 Top Women in Tech Australia, Womentech Network
▪ 2024 Fintech Top 100 women globally #28
▪ 2024 Women in Banking and Finance Inclusive Workplace Award
(team lead).
▪ 2023 Women in Banking and Finance Inclusive Leader award
▪ 2023 Women in Banking and Finance Diversity & Inclusion
Initiative of the Year (team lead)
She has worked across industries including finance, telecom, and government, leading initiatives that drive innovation, operational excellence, and customer engagement.
Miranda has developed strategic and tactical direction, built high performing teams and enabled service to uplift customer experiences.
Her leadership, focus and business direction results in improved engagement and productivity through enhanced employee experience, delivering significantly engaged teams who have more time to delight customers.
She is passionate about building people-centric cultures and embedding sustainability and diversity in tech strategy.
Community is a strong anchor for Miranda, and she is also a volunteer yoga teacher.
Miranda has been globally recognised as a Fintech Top 100 Woman and an Inclusive Leader.
Miranda’s recent awards and nominations include:
• 2025 Women Leading Tech Power List #15, presented by
Atlassian
▪ 2025 Top Women in Tech Australia, Womentech Network
▪ 2024 Fintech Top 100 women globally #28
▪ 2024 Women in Banking and Finance Inclusive Workplace Award
(team lead).
▪ 2023 Women in Banking and Finance Inclusive Leader award
▪ 2023 Women in Banking and Finance Diversity & Inclusion
Initiative of the Year (team lead)
Speaking at
11:20
Adapting to New Technology: The Impact on Tech Roles and Careers
Speaker
Speakers
Miranda Ratajski,
Elena Little
General Manager of Omnichannel ProductMECCA Brands
Elena joined MECCA in 2020 and is the General Manager of Omnichannel Product, Experience Design and Engineering. She leads MECCA’s digital technology transformation, shaping the company’s end-to-end omnichannel vision and technology strategy across digital, mobile, in-store clientelling, MarTech, and customer experience platforms.
With over 20 years’ experience in global retail, ecommerce, and FMCG brands, including MECCA, Myer, Debenhams, House of Fraser, and PZ Cussons, Elena is recognised for her leadership in customer-centric innovation, omni-channel strategy, and enterprise-wide transformation. She is passionate about building high-performing teams that deliver meaningful, customer-led digital experiences that truly matter.
Elena holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University College London and is committed to empowering women in technology, championing diversity in leadership, and developing future digital talent.
With over 20 years’ experience in global retail, ecommerce, and FMCG brands, including MECCA, Myer, Debenhams, House of Fraser, and PZ Cussons, Elena is recognised for her leadership in customer-centric innovation, omni-channel strategy, and enterprise-wide transformation. She is passionate about building high-performing teams that deliver meaningful, customer-led digital experiences that truly matter.
Elena holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University College London and is committed to empowering women in technology, championing diversity in leadership, and developing future digital talent.
Speaking at
11:50
Beyond the big launch: Rethinking digital transformation
Speaker
Speakers
Elena Little,
Carrie Hu
Chief Information OfficerNew Aim
Carrie Hu is the Chief Information Officer at New Aim. Carrie brings over 17 years of expertise in data, information technology, and project management. She joined New Aim in 2021 as Head of Digital Product and ascended to the role of Chief Product Officer in April 2024 and as of June 2025 became the Chief Information Officer. Prior to her tenure at New Aim, Carrie held project management roles at NAB, where she honed her skills in managing complex projects and driving digital innovation.
Carrie’s leadership in standardising the digital supply chain and driving marketplace transformation has earned her a strong reputation across the enterprise. Her contributions were recognised in 2023 when she won Digital Transformation Leader of the Year at the Women in Digital Awards. Carrie’s industry expertise is further evidenced by her participation in eCommerce strategy panel discussions at Online Retailer Expos and her role as a judge for the 2024 Women in Digital Awards.
Committed to nurturing future leaders, Carrie actively mentors team members and serves as a Director of Inspiring Girls Australia. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting and Finance from the University of Melbourne.
Carrie’s leadership in standardising the digital supply chain and driving marketplace transformation has earned her a strong reputation across the enterprise. Her contributions were recognised in 2023 when she won Digital Transformation Leader of the Year at the Women in Digital Awards. Carrie’s industry expertise is further evidenced by her participation in eCommerce strategy panel discussions at Online Retailer Expos and her role as a judge for the 2024 Women in Digital Awards.
Committed to nurturing future leaders, Carrie actively mentors team members and serves as a Director of Inspiring Girls Australia. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting and Finance from the University of Melbourne.
Speaking at
Skills Spotlight
12:10
Empowering your team, organisation & career through digital transformation leadership
Speaker
Speakers
Carrie Hu,
Dominique Barker
Chief Information OfficerAustralian Institute of Family Studies
After converting from a career in Journalism at Fairfax in a previous life in Auckland, Dominique cut her teeth in web at a digital agency in Melbourne, where she was exposed to over 50 website and application projects in just 4 years – pre-empting a move into Information Technology in the University sector. It was here she worked in an innovation hub at Deakin, as part of a broader technical team, building revolutionary online platforms from the ground up. Since then, she has lead the operations and strategy of the online learning environments at RMIT during the pandemic, and now works as the Chief Information Officer at Melbourne-based Federal Government agency, The Australian Institute of Family Studies, where she is continuing her journey of IT leadership, transformation and delivery as a public servant.
Speaking at
Skills Spotlight
12:40
Building resilience and adapting with agility
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Speaker
Speakers
Dominique Barker,
Roundtables
Roundtable 4: Overcoming imposter syndrome: strategies to build confidence and thrive
Speaker
Speakers
Dominique Barker,
Sam Love
Executive, Product & TechnologyQuantium Telstra
Dynamic technology and product leader with a proven track record of driving innovation and delivering impactful solutions across industries such as financial services, media, and retail. With deep expertise in data analytics and product management, I specialise in building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of collaboration, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
As an intellectually curious and results-driven professional, I thrive in fast-paced, high-growth environments, tackling complex challenges with a strategic mindset and a focus on long-term value creation. Passionate about aligning technology, data, and business strategy, I am committed to developing innovative solutions that enable organisations to achieve transformational growth.
As an intellectually curious and results-driven professional, I thrive in fast-paced, high-growth environments, tackling complex challenges with a strategic mindset and a focus on long-term value creation. Passionate about aligning technology, data, and business strategy, I am committed to developing innovative solutions that enable organisations to achieve transformational growth.
Speaking at
Skills Spotlight
14:10
Developing critical non-technical skills to open doors & improve project outcomes
Speaker
Speakers
Sam Love,
Suneetha Bodduluri
Chief Technology OfficerService NSW
With over 20 years of experience as a technology leader, Suneetha is dedicated to driving digital transformation and leveraging cutting-edge solutions to advance businesses. Her career spans across various Government Departments and private companies, where she has consistently delivered strategic IT initiatives aligned with organizational goals, enhancing operational efficiency.
She is deeply passionate about creating exceptional experiences and unlocking potential by placing technology at the core of organizational enablement. She has successfully led national whole-of-government digital modernization and transformation programs, securing buy-in at the highest levels, including Ministerial levels. She specialises in building independent organizational structures focused on perpetuating customer experience, agile methodologies, innovation, and a strong commitment to delivery.
Thriving in dynamic environments, she blends technical expertise with business acumen to achieve impactful results. Her strengths include leading cross-functional teams, fostering cultures of innovation, and implementing scalable solutions that meet current and future needs. She excels in navigating complex challenges, optimizing infrastructure, deploying robust cybersecurity measures, and leveraging emerging technologies such as AI and cloud computing.
Throughout her career, she has developed a profound understanding of modern digital technologies, including DevOps, DevSecOps, FinOps, Privacy and Security by design, Service Management, Contract Negotiations, and Vendor Management. This expertise enables her to drive digital strategies that yield competitive advantages and foster growth. Committed to continuous learning, she stays ahead of industry trends to ensure my teams consistently exceed expectations.
She is deeply passionate about creating exceptional experiences and unlocking potential by placing technology at the core of organizational enablement. She has successfully led national whole-of-government digital modernization and transformation programs, securing buy-in at the highest levels, including Ministerial levels. She specialises in building independent organizational structures focused on perpetuating customer experience, agile methodologies, innovation, and a strong commitment to delivery.
Thriving in dynamic environments, she blends technical expertise with business acumen to achieve impactful results. Her strengths include leading cross-functional teams, fostering cultures of innovation, and implementing scalable solutions that meet current and future needs. She excels in navigating complex challenges, optimizing infrastructure, deploying robust cybersecurity measures, and leveraging emerging technologies such as AI and cloud computing.
Throughout her career, she has developed a profound understanding of modern digital technologies, including DevOps, DevSecOps, FinOps, Privacy and Security by design, Service Management, Contract Negotiations, and Vendor Management. This expertise enables her to drive digital strategies that yield competitive advantages and foster growth. Committed to continuous learning, she stays ahead of industry trends to ensure my teams consistently exceed expectations.
Speaking at
Skills Spotlight
14:40
Balancing tech expertise with commercial acumen: driving innovation from concept to commercialisation
Speaker
Speakers
Suneetha Bodduluri,
Caroline McDaid
Chief Executive OfficerWorkVentures
Caroline McDaid is a strategic executive and social-impact leader with more than two decades of experience across the commercial and for-purpose sectors. As CEO of WorkVentures, Australia’s first IT social enterprise, she leads national efforts to expand digital equity through technology access, skills development and meaningful career pathways.
Caroline is a driving force behind the National Device Bank collaboration — a cross-sector initiative creating essential social infrastructure to support the 1 in 5 Australians who remain digitally excluded. A recognised voice in digital equity and inclusive technology policy, she is committed to helping organisations unlock their own impact by contributing surplus technology and capability to the communities that need them most.
A Chartered Accountant with an Executive MBA from UNSW, Caroline also serves on NFP boards and advisory groups. She lives on Wallamadigal land with her husband, Michael, and their two daughters.
Speaking at
15:10
The National Device Bank: Empowering Access to Technology
Speaker
Speakers
Caroline McDaid,
Roundtables
Roundtable 8: Using technology as a force for good: using your background & skills to create positive impact in the world.
Speaker
Speakers
Caroline McDaid,
Karen Katz
Co-Managing Director & Co-FounderHer Tech Circle
Speaking at
Roundtables
Roundtable 1: Overcoming gender bias and ensuring your voice is recognised and valued
Speaker
Speakers
Karen Katz,
Gaby Carney
Senior Fellow, Strategic AI, UTS Human Technology InstituteUniversity of Technology Sydney
Gaby Carney is a Senior Fellow at the UTS Human Technology Institute where she advises on AI corporate governance and responsible AI. Gaby is a lawyer and policy expert with extensive experience in legal and regulatory policy, and governance. She has been a Partner of management consulting firm, Partners in Performance and has held senior executive roles in the NSW Government.
Speaking at
Roundtables
Roundtable 2: Shaping high impact culture & high performance through leadership
Speaker
Speakers
Gaby Carney,
13:20
Harnessing the power of agentic AI & navigating the risks
Speaker
Speakers
Gaby Carney,
Hayley Sheppard
Head of Digital SolutionsTasNetworks
Hayley Sheppard is the Head of Digital, holding the CISO role at TasNetworks. Working in the Energy industry, Hayley is across the ever-changing security demands that operating critical infrastructure represents.
In her current role, Hayley focuses on digital tooling, architecture, and the security aspects of the energy industry transformation, specifically the intersection between Operational Technology and core IT. Having spent her career specialising in digital projects delivering organisational change, Hayley uses that experience to focus on digital adoption and identifying ongoing needs for customers and team members.
In her current role, Hayley focuses on digital tooling, architecture, and the security aspects of the energy industry transformation, specifically the intersection between Operational Technology and core IT. Having spent her career specialising in digital projects delivering organisational change, Hayley uses that experience to focus on digital adoption and identifying ongoing needs for customers and team members.
Speaking at
Roundtables
Roundtable 3: Interview power play: landing your next role in tech
Speaker
Speakers
Hayley Sheppard,
May Lam
Chief Information OfficerAustralian Payments Plus
May has 25+ years of technology leadership and business transformation experience across Banking and Financial services, Payments, Fintech and the Public Sector in Australia, Greater China and APAC Regions.
Speaking at
Roundtables
Roundtable 5: Strategies to succeed on a high-pressure, high stakes project
Speaker
Speakers
May Lam,
Panel Discussion
09:30
Panel discussion: Finding success in non-traditional tech paths: maximising diverse and non-linear career trajectories
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Speaker
Speakers
Cheng Yeo,
Helen Lau,
Suzie Cardwell,
May Lam,
Nicole Nixon,
Isabel Bray,
Lucy Poole
Deputy Chief Executive Officer – Strategy, Planning & PerformanceDigital Transformation Agency
Lucy leads the Strategy, Planning and Performance Division which focuses on providing whole-of-government strategic leadership to the development and implementation of digital policies, the Australian Government Architecture, and the Data and Digital Government Strategy.
Lucy oversees the management of the government’s digital investment pipeline to ensure an integrated and coordinated approach to government’s investment in digital and ICT. A key priority for Lucy is driving the achievement of the Australian Government’s vision to implement world class digital capabilities to deliver outstanding outcomes for all.
Lucy also manages the Digital Transformation Agency’s development of policies, governance models, and assurance frameworks for the implementation and use of Generative Artificial Intelligence technologies across the Australian Public Service.
Prior to joining the Digital Transformation Agency, Lucy held senior executive roles at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Australian Public Service Commission where she led several transformation programs. Lucy has experience across a range of sectors including Australian federal and state governments, the private sector and the UK civil service.
Lucy oversees the management of the government’s digital investment pipeline to ensure an integrated and coordinated approach to government’s investment in digital and ICT. A key priority for Lucy is driving the achievement of the Australian Government’s vision to implement world class digital capabilities to deliver outstanding outcomes for all.
Lucy also manages the Digital Transformation Agency’s development of policies, governance models, and assurance frameworks for the implementation and use of Generative Artificial Intelligence technologies across the Australian Public Service.
Prior to joining the Digital Transformation Agency, Lucy held senior executive roles at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Australian Public Service Commission where she led several transformation programs. Lucy has experience across a range of sectors including Australian federal and state governments, the private sector and the UK civil service.
Speaking at
09:00
Future-proof or fade out – reinventing your skills & career in the AI era
Speaker
Speakers
Lucy Poole,
Cheng Yeo
General Manager Architecture & StrategyCrown Resorts
Cheng is a visionary Chief Architect. She provides technology thought leadership across large and complex organisations in telecommunications, banking, supply chain and hospitality sectors. Cheng co-creates enterprise architecture blueprints with her stakeholders that unlock value for the organisation. She has a proven ability to deliver innovation and pragmatism to fuel business growth. As a strong advocate for inclusive and engaging work culture, she favours an intersectional approach to Diversity and Inclusion.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
09:30
Panel discussion: Finding success in non-traditional tech paths: maximising diverse and non-linear career trajectories
Speaker
Speakers
Cheng Yeo,
Helen Lau,
Suzie Cardwell,
May Lam,
Nicole Nixon,
Isabel Bray,
Helen Lau
General Manager – Engineering PlatformsCommonwealth Bank
Helen Lau is the General Manager for Engineering Platform at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where she leads large scale engineering initiatives that empower thousands of developers across the organisation. With over 20 years of experience in software engineering, architecture, consulting, and executive leadership, Helen is recognised for driving innovation at scale while fostering a culture of excellence and inclusion.
She is passionate about building modern engineering platforms that accelerate delivery, embed security by design, and enable teams to ship software with speed and confidence. Her work spans DevSecOps maturity, automated security, and platform engineering capabilities that support the bank’s digital ambitions.
Helen is a strong advocate for women in technology and is committed to attracting, retaining, and mentoring female talent to build sustainable and visible career pathways in engineering.
She is a regular speaker at international conferences and industry forums, sharing CBA’s engineering transformation journey with the global community.
Prior to joining CBA, Helen held leadership roles at Microsoft and Caltex Ampol Australia. Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her family and is an avid reader.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
09:30
Panel discussion: Finding success in non-traditional tech paths: maximising diverse and non-linear career trajectories
Speaker
Speakers
Cheng Yeo,
Helen Lau,
Suzie Cardwell,
May Lam,
Nicole Nixon,
Isabel Bray,
Suzie Cardwell
Chief Data Product & Technology OfficerNine
Suzie has a proven track record in leading digital transformation strategies and new data-led digital products for media organisations. With long experience in digital and date platform development, she has worked for some of Australia's largest media organisations including Foxtel, News Corp and Nine Entertainment.
In Her roles with Foxtel and New Corp, Suzie was responsible for developing new commercial data-driven digital products. At News Corp she launched he industry-first audience segmentation and intelligence platform, Intent Connect.
Currently, in her role as Chief Data, Product & Technology Officer, Enterprise for Nine Entertainment, Suzie is leading the development and implementation of Nine's data strategy, focusing on building value from Nine's AI strategy, she leads a team of date technologists, product managers and data scientists.
In Her roles with Foxtel and New Corp, Suzie was responsible for developing new commercial data-driven digital products. At News Corp she launched he industry-first audience segmentation and intelligence platform, Intent Connect.
Currently, in her role as Chief Data, Product & Technology Officer, Enterprise for Nine Entertainment, Suzie is leading the development and implementation of Nine's data strategy, focusing on building value from Nine's AI strategy, she leads a team of date technologists, product managers and data scientists.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
09:30
Panel discussion: Finding success in non-traditional tech paths: maximising diverse and non-linear career trajectories
Speaker
Speakers
Cheng Yeo,
Helen Lau,
Suzie Cardwell,
May Lam,
Nicole Nixon,
Isabel Bray,
Nicole Nixon
Chief Executive OfficerFive Faces
Nicole provides the overarching strategic direction to lead Five Faces through rapid growth and innovation. She leads a team of nearly 30 to deliver consumer experience solutions accessed by four million Australians.
Empathy lies at the core of Nicole’s approach. With a deep understanding of human connection, she champions the importance of putting consumers at the forefront of every experience. She ensures equal opportunities to thrive in the digital age by supporting vulnerable consumers with easy, accessible technology. Internally, Nicole inspires and motivates the Five Faces team to deliver exceptional solutions and service, fostering a supportive culture of excellence and continuous improvement. She forges strong and enduring partnerships with clients, where goals, design and achievements are shared as one team.
These exceptional people skills are backed by a solid foundation of structure, process, and problem solving which Nicole acquired during her time in the Royal Australian Air Force and honed through diverse professional experiences in manufacturing, business consulting and entertainment. This rich background enables Nicole to lead with a unique blend of empathy and pragmatism, ensuring that innovation is not just a lofty ideal but delivered in a reliable and consistent fashion.
Nicole was the driving force behind Five Faces’ pivot during COVID-19 to focus on consumer experience solutions – initially on the frontline of the healthcare industry and then broadening to other complex service organisations such as education and government. She oversaw investment in the company’s new technology platform to ensure that the unprecedented innovation during COVID-19 would become the new normal.
Nicole is an empathetic entrepreneur, guiding Five Faces to fuel the growing appetite for digital transformation among complex service providers that provide essential services for society’s most vulnerable people.
Empathy lies at the core of Nicole’s approach. With a deep understanding of human connection, she champions the importance of putting consumers at the forefront of every experience. She ensures equal opportunities to thrive in the digital age by supporting vulnerable consumers with easy, accessible technology. Internally, Nicole inspires and motivates the Five Faces team to deliver exceptional solutions and service, fostering a supportive culture of excellence and continuous improvement. She forges strong and enduring partnerships with clients, where goals, design and achievements are shared as one team.
These exceptional people skills are backed by a solid foundation of structure, process, and problem solving which Nicole acquired during her time in the Royal Australian Air Force and honed through diverse professional experiences in manufacturing, business consulting and entertainment. This rich background enables Nicole to lead with a unique blend of empathy and pragmatism, ensuring that innovation is not just a lofty ideal but delivered in a reliable and consistent fashion.
Nicole was the driving force behind Five Faces’ pivot during COVID-19 to focus on consumer experience solutions – initially on the frontline of the healthcare industry and then broadening to other complex service organisations such as education and government. She oversaw investment in the company’s new technology platform to ensure that the unprecedented innovation during COVID-19 would become the new normal.
Nicole is an empathetic entrepreneur, guiding Five Faces to fuel the growing appetite for digital transformation among complex service providers that provide essential services for society’s most vulnerable people.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
09:30
Panel discussion: Finding success in non-traditional tech paths: maximising diverse and non-linear career trajectories
Speaker
Speakers
Cheng Yeo,
Helen Lau,
Suzie Cardwell,
May Lam,
Nicole Nixon,
Isabel Bray,
Isabel Bray
Digital Product ManagerMECCA Brands
Isabel is a Digital Product Manager at MECCA Brands, where she draws on a decade-long journey across the business, beginning in-store in 2015. Her early experience on the shop floor gave her deep insight into MECCA’s customer and brand DNA, which continues to shape her approach to building connected, seamless omnichannel experiences.
After joining MECCA’s graduate program in an eCommerce role, Isabel became one of the founding members of the digital product team, growing through roles including Business Analyst, Product Owner, and now Product Manager. In her current role, she leads the delivery of customer-centric experiences across MECCA’s website and mobile app, with a strong focus on delight, usability and measurable impact.
A career highlight includes her work on MECCA’s multi-year Digital Transformation: an APAC-first custom tech stack that rebuilt the website from the ground up and brought together platforms and capabilities never before seen in this market. Isabel has also played a key role in other large-scale initiatives, including Click & Collect, new payments infrastructure, and fraud detection tooling.
Isabel is an active member of MECCA’s Women in Tech employee resource group and is passionate about inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in technology.
She holds a Bachelor of Health Science from Griffith University.
After joining MECCA’s graduate program in an eCommerce role, Isabel became one of the founding members of the digital product team, growing through roles including Business Analyst, Product Owner, and now Product Manager. In her current role, she leads the delivery of customer-centric experiences across MECCA’s website and mobile app, with a strong focus on delight, usability and measurable impact.
A career highlight includes her work on MECCA’s multi-year Digital Transformation: an APAC-first custom tech stack that rebuilt the website from the ground up and brought together platforms and capabilities never before seen in this market. Isabel has also played a key role in other large-scale initiatives, including Click & Collect, new payments infrastructure, and fraud detection tooling.
Isabel is an active member of MECCA’s Women in Tech employee resource group and is passionate about inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in technology.
She holds a Bachelor of Health Science from Griffith University.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
09:30
Panel discussion: Finding success in non-traditional tech paths: maximising diverse and non-linear career trajectories
Speaker
Speakers
Cheng Yeo,
Helen Lau,
Suzie Cardwell,
May Lam,
Nicole Nixon,
Isabel Bray,
Forough Khandan
Chief Technology OfficerEMVision Medical Devices
Forough builds and leads performing teams, new technologies, and products in new and established organizations. Challenges, risks, and opportunities are what she deals with every day and the reason why her work is exciting.
She has a demonstrated a track record of successful technologies, and product(s) in the medical device, automotive, and consumer industries. Skilled in people and project management. Strong new technology and product development professional who always finds a new or more efficient way to overcome or bypass obstacles.
"Working with a great team makes work much better and helps turn challenges into fun and just "another puzzle" to solve. Still learning and growing."
She has a demonstrated a track record of successful technologies, and product(s) in the medical device, automotive, and consumer industries. Skilled in people and project management. Strong new technology and product development professional who always finds a new or more efficient way to overcome or bypass obstacles.
"Working with a great team makes work much better and helps turn challenges into fun and just "another puzzle" to solve. Still learning and growing."
Speaking at
10:50
Owning your journey: how to advocate for yourself at every career stage
Speaker
Speakers
Forough Khandan,
Jennifer Mulveny
Government Relations & Public Policy Director, Asia-PacificAdobe
Jennifer is an experienced Director of Government Relations and Public Policy working in both Washington D.C and the Asia-Pacific region supporting Fortune 500 technology companies. She’s skilled in creating successful technology policy strategies to help achieve targeted business objectives, with a specific focus on international trade, AI and emerging tech, privacy and intellectual property. Jennifer has strong skills in coalition building, public speaking and writing. She has an M.A., in International Relations from The George Washington University, completed the Australia Institute of Company Directors (AICD) company directors course, and serves on the Board of Stepping Stone House which works to eliminate youth homelessness in Australia and Beautiful Minds, a wellness program for children and their families. Jennifer is certified in mindfulness meditation coaching and yoga and teaches regular community mindfulness classes.
Speaking at
11:20
A Wellness Toolkit for Women in Tech to Drive Sustainable Success
Speaker
Speakers
Jennifer Mulveny,
Rekha Anand
Head of Information Technology ServicesMinterEllison
Rekha Anand is the Head of IT Services, leading enterprise‑scale technology operations with a focus on service excellence, resilience, and business impact. She brings deep experience in IT service management and operational leadership, partnering closely with senior stakeholders to deliver reliable, high‑performing digital services.
A committed mentor and advocate for women in technology, Rekha actively supports the development of emerging leaders and champions inclusive leadership across the IT profession.
Speaking at
11:50
Coding fairness: women leading the ethical AI revolution
Speaker
Speakers
Rekha Anand,
Sarah Vale
Head of Technology ArchitectureDomain
Sarah is passionate about bridging the gap between business and technology through collaboration and communication. Her holistic and pragmatic approach has been shaped by broad industry experience, from consulting and coding to enterprise architecture, transformation and strategy development.
Speaking at
Skills Spotlight
13:50
Achieving success through cross-team collaboration
Speaker
Speakers
Sarah Vale,
Susan Gibson
Head of Data Analytics & AIUniversity of Technology Sydney
Susan Gibson is the Head of Data Analytics and AI at the University of Technology Sydney, where she leads transformative initiatives that harness data and emerging technologies to drive strategic impact. With a rare blend of technical expertise and visionary leadership, Susan is widely respected for her ability to foster innovation, build collaborative networks and champion inclusive change. She is deeply passionate about empowering women in technology including advocating for progressive workplace practices, mentoring future leaders and creating spaces where women can thrive. Susan believes that visibility, advocacy and sparking curiosity in STEM from a young age are critical to shaping a more diverse and dynamic tech sector.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
14:20
Panel discussion: Empowering the next generation of women in tech
Speaker
Speakers
Susan Gibson,
Katrina Troughton,
Natalie Saunders,
Stevie-Ann Dovico,
Katrina Troughton
Vice President & Managing DirectorAdobe ANZ
Experienced General Manager in the information technology and services industry. Led by strong client focus supporting business and technical transformation, I excel in leading multi-disciplined teams. An accomplished leader with experience leading teams successfully through major transformations, in bringing new technologies to market in global and Asian markets, and in building key partnerships and alliances to bring the highest possible value to clients.
I am a Chief Executive Women member, and passionate about the importance of culture, diversity and inclusion in high performance organisations. I am proud to have received the CEO of the Year award at the 2021 Australian LGBTQ Inclusion Awards.
I serve on the TAFE NSW advisory board, and pleased to act as a a Careers NSW Ambassador as the IT industry continues to grow and offer significant new career opportunities where new skills and pathways into IT are required.
My solution experience spans data and analytics, cloud, AI, BPM, Digital Strategy, software and Software as a Service (SaaS)
I am a Chief Executive Women member, and passionate about the importance of culture, diversity and inclusion in high performance organisations. I am proud to have received the CEO of the Year award at the 2021 Australian LGBTQ Inclusion Awards.
I serve on the TAFE NSW advisory board, and pleased to act as a a Careers NSW Ambassador as the IT industry continues to grow and offer significant new career opportunities where new skills and pathways into IT are required.
My solution experience spans data and analytics, cloud, AI, BPM, Digital Strategy, software and Software as a Service (SaaS)
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
14:20
Panel discussion: Empowering the next generation of women in tech
Speaker
Speakers
Susan Gibson,
Katrina Troughton,
Natalie Saunders,
Stevie-Ann Dovico,
Natalie Saunders
Head of Technology – Service ManagementAGL
Nat Saunders is Head of Technology – Service Management at AGL, where she leads technology strategy for electricity generation and Energy Hubs, bridging operational business units with technology services to deliver reliable, future-ready energy solutions. With over 13 years at AGL, Nat’s journey began in the Adelaide contact centre and evolved through roles in customer experience, process improvement, and technology leadership.
As Chair of AGL’s Equality Committee, Nat is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. She is committed to empowering women in energy and encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the industry’s vast opportunities.
Based at Torrens Island, Nat brings a people-first approach to leadership and is proud to contribute to Australia’s renewable energy transition.
As Chair of AGL’s Equality Committee, Nat is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. She is committed to empowering women in energy and encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the industry’s vast opportunities.
Based at Torrens Island, Nat brings a people-first approach to leadership and is proud to contribute to Australia’s renewable energy transition.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
14:20
Panel discussion: Empowering the next generation of women in tech
Speaker
Speakers
Susan Gibson,
Katrina Troughton,
Natalie Saunders,
Stevie-Ann Dovico,
Stevie-Ann Dovico
Group Executive for Technology & Chief Information Officer
Stevie is a technologist, a strategist, an innovator, and a leader. She has a larger-than-life energy and a passion for developing people and teams. Stevie has spent almost 20 years in banking and financial services running critical technology platforms that support some of the country’s largest businesses. Throughout her career she has led global teams, large-scale delivery and transformed technology, digital and data capabilities. She is formally the Group Executive for Technology and Data and Chief Information Officer of Beyond Bank, one of the largest customer owned banks in Australia. Stevie has been recognised as an industry leader and one of Australia’s top CIOs by several organisations including Women in Digital, CIO50, Women in Banking and Finance and IT News.
Speaking at
Panel Discussion
14:20
Panel discussion: Empowering the next generation of women in tech
Speaker
Speakers
Susan Gibson,
Katrina Troughton,
Natalie Saunders,
Stevie-Ann Dovico,