ACS supports call for more tech skills at board leve
Sydney, Wednesday 18 April: ACS, the peak professional association for Australia’s ICT sector, has supported calls by Bill Ferris, Chair of Innovation and Science Australia, for organisations to view diversity through a prism of more than gender.
At an event for the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Mr Ferris spoke of the need to address issues in addition to gender when viewing diversity, in particular looking to appoint directors with digital skills.
“These kinds of skills are no longer nice to haves; they are core to the ability. Prioritising seats at the table to those who can offer these insights is a key challenge facing Australian boards,” Mr Ferris said.
Speaking from San Francisco where he is attending the RSA Conference, ACS President Yohan Ramasundara endorsed Mr Ferris’ comments.
“Our Fellows and Senior Members undertake a rigorous process in order to achieve their status within ACS. They are the kinds of candidates that companies need to be looking for if they are to create a board that understands the importance of digital business.”
“Organisations that do not embrace digital will not survive the transition to industry 4.0. It is time for large organisations to realise that the governance level must have these skills in order to guide the business.”
“Mr Ferris’ call for more technologists on boards is just one way to help build these skills in the governance sphere. We believe that boards should also look to appoint those candidates who can demonstrate that their technical literacy is recognised, as they will be assets for the business in times to come.”
Further information
Thomas Shanahan
External Engagement Manager
M - 0417 678 474
E - thomas.shanahan@acs.org.au
About ACS
ACS is the professional association for Australia's Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. More than 30,000 ACS members work in business, education, government and the community. ACS exists to create the environment and provide the opportunities for members and partners to succeed. ACS strives for ICT professionals to be recognised as drivers of innovation in our society, relevant across all sectors, and to promote the formulation of effective policies on ICT and related matters. Visit www.acs.org.au for more information.