Inaugural CEO of Tech Council Australia steps down

The umbrella group for Australia’s tech sector is on the hunt for a new boss, with the announcement its inaugural chief executive officer is leaving the post.

Kate Pounder will step down as CEO of the Tech Council of Australia, the nation’s peak body for Australia’s technology industry, sparking praise from the Federal Government for her efforts.

She has resigned from the role to reduce her travel commitments and remain in Canberra as she supports a family health-related matter.

The TCA represents more than 160 member tech companies across the the spectrum – small, medium and large – providing a trusted voice for the sector and working closely with federal, state and territory governments on numerous tech-related initiatives and issues.

The council states that its aim is 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.

It says its vision is for a “prosperous Australia that thrives by harnessing the power of technology” .

Ms Pounder described the role at the TCA as the greatest of her professional career.

“I feel so incredibly privileged to have led this organisation for the past three years,” she said.

“I hope to continue to champion the industry in a personal capacity and look forward to watching the organisation grow and continue its impact by elevating and championing our incredible tech sector.”

Chair of TCA’s board, Robyn Denholm, praised Kate’s role in launching and cementing the council as a critical industry body and in raising the profile of the tech sector in Australia.

“Over the last three years Kate has worked tirelessly to ensure that the tech sector has a strong and unified voice on the national stage,” Ms Denholm said.

“She has built a formidable team, bringing together policy, advocacy and building a large and diverse member ecosystem.

“The board thanks Kate for her contribution and looks forward to her remaining a close ally of the sector.”

Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic joined in pouring praise on the outgoing CEO.

“On behalf of the Albanese government, I place on record my thanks and appreciation for Kate Pounder’s tireless advocacy on behalf of the tech sector following news of her resignation as CEO of the Tech Council,” the Minister said.

“Over her three years as CEO, Kate’s leadership helped elevate and illuminate the vital role our tech sector plays in our economy and society.

“Her ability to unify the sector around common goals was best demonstrated by her influential role in our government’s decision to set a target of 1.2 million tech-related jobs by 2030.

“I wish her and her family well for the future.”

The TCA board will farewell Ms Pounder with its members at an event next week.

Recruitment for a new CEO is underway.

In the meantime, the TCA’s head of public policy, Ryan Black, will act as CEO.