MEDIA RELEASE

MEDIA RELEASE: ACS announces leadership changes

Australian Computer Society (ACS) President Brenda Aynsley OAM today announced the resignation of CEO Mr. Alan Patterson and the appointment of ACS CFO Ms. Kim Finch as acting CEO.

Mr. Patterson joined the ACS as CEO in May 2011 after a long career as a senior executive throughout Australia and Asia.

Ms Aynsley said the recent completion of the ACS three-year plan brings Mr Patterson’s work as CEO to a conclusion.

“Alan has made a very substantial contribution to the ACS over his time as CEO, his efforts have advanced the ACS in its effective structures, stakeholder relationships and professional portfolio,” she said.

“Under Alan’s stewardship, the ACS has transformed itself into a world-leading professional society. With the continued growth of the global ICT profession, the ACS has developed its product offering to include enhanced professional development, the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA), and assessment and education partnerships with leading institutions both in Australia and around the world.

“Alan has been a very effective agent of change and his contribution has placed the ACS in a much stronger position as a consequence. It is sad to see Alan go but we wish him well in his next endeavours."

In addition to these achievements, Mr. Patterson oversaw the rebranding of the Society, which increased the profile of the ACS and established a brand that will serve the Society well into the future. Ms Aynsley cited the Youth Festival of ICT, YITcon14, and the Future Leaders Institute held earlier this year as examples of how much value the brand has achieved.

Mr. Patterson said now that the change phase has come to an end, it is time for a new CEO to oversee the future plan.

“I’m extremely proud of what we have achieved as a Society during the past three and a half years, and feel there is tremendous momentum around the brand. We began implementing a new three year plan for the ACS in July 2014 and now that this is underway, it is time for someone else to pick up the gauntlet and lead the Society through its next phase,” he said. “It’s the natural conclusion to my work in establishing the ACS forward plans. I have enjoyed my time with the Society and I will remain a great supporter of the ACS.”

Ms. Finch joined the ACS as Chief Financial Officer in 2013. Her role as Acting CEO will take effect this week.

The ACS will this week commence a recruitment process for a new CEO.

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