Association Leaders Symposium 2024
Association Leaders Symposium is a prestigious annual event that brings together influential leaders from various industries and associations. Through insightful keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the symposium aims to foster collaboration, share innovative ideas, and inspire positive change in the business and association sectors.
The interactive symposium has tailored content and discussions to the needs of association leaders and decision-makers across the whole not-for-profit sector.
Why Attend ?
- Network with visionary leaders
- Embrace innovation and stay on the cutting edge of association leadership
- Stay informed about industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies
- Presentations from business, association and charity leaders
- Engage in thought-provoking discussions and challenge your leadership paradigms
This event will be chaired by Kathy Nguyen, Senior Lawyer, Governology.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
CEOs and C-Suite | Presidents | Board Members | Senior Managers | Emerging Leaders
MEET OUR SPONSORS
SESSION HIGHLIGHTS
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Managing a Major Retailers Association - The need for associations to provide a strong value proposition and advocacy Paul Zahra, CEO, Australian Retailers Association |
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A Chair and a CEO walk into a bar...A discussion about Board – Executive Dynamics Get ready for an unfiltered conversation between a CEO and their former Board Chair. In this lively, tell-it-like-it-is session, they will interview each other on the nuances of the Board relationship with the organisation, the challenges for CEOs in dealing with changing Board Chairs, handling tough conversations, and tips for fostering a collaborative and effective partnership. Expect real-world lessons as they discuss the highs and lows of navigating one of the most critical dynamics in any association. Elayne Grace, CEO, Actuaries Institute |
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Strategic Advocacy and Governance: Navigating Industry Challenges and Building Stronger Associations - Discuss effective strategies for advocacy and building strong relationships with government and policymakers Sid Marris, Deputy CEO, Minerals Council of Australia |
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Challenges and Lessons from the Chair Dr. Lara Roeske, Board Chair, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners |
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Panel discussion: Future Made in Australia The panel aims to inspire and inform attendees about the dynamic and interconnected roles of science, technology, and small businesses in shaping a prosperous and innovative future for Australia. Ryan Winn, CEO of Science and Technology Australia, will discuss the importance of investment in scientific research and technological advancements, and collaboration between government, industry, and academic institutions. Luke Achterstraat, CEO of the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia, will address the challenges and opportunities for small businesses, the impact of technology and digitisation on growth, and necessary policies and support mechanisms. Together, they will explore strategies for Australia to lead in innovation, technology, and small business growth. Ryan Winn, CEO, Science and Technology Australia |
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Fire side chat on Lessons Learned in Leading the Association Ben Stockwin will present on: |
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Roundtable Interactive session: Association Leaders’ Triumphs and Tribulations Michael Bell, Senior Associations Advisor, Associations Forum |
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The Importance of Hosting Global Conferences in Sydney A discussion of successful conference delivery with Prof. Richard Mackay: - Showcasing local achievement, innovation and leadership Lyn Lewis-Smith, CEO, BE Sydney |
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Enhancing Member Experience and Value with Online Community Higher Logic's Ally Zidwick will lead a session on Enhancing Member Experience and Value with an Online Community. Ally will explore how to boost member engagement and satisfaction, and offer practical strategies for effective onboarding, personalised communication, and meaningful engagement tactics. Whether you’re looking to increase participation, improve retention, or simply offer more value, this session will provide you with some insights on how to create a thriving, connected community. Ally Zidwick, Account Executive, Higher Logic |
Member Registrations: $660
Non-Member Registrations: $800 (NFP only)
Develop your Team with Special Group Discounts
We offer a variety of group discounts for the professional development of your team, email us to learn more.
Associations Forum will send a tax invoice upon registration for this event. Registrations are only open to not-for-profit organisations.
SPEAKERS
Paul Zahra, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Retailers Association
Paul Zahra is the CEO of the Australian Retailers Association, a not for profit that is the country’s oldest, largest, and most diverse retail body, representing a $420bn sector which employs 1.4m Australians. The ARA has gone through a significant transformation during his leadership, welcoming the recruitment of well-known large and major retail brands, whilst successfully retaining 95 per cent of members that are small to medium size businesses. A powerful champion for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, Paul has led numerous high profile LGBTI campaigns and initiatives. He is the former Chair of PwC Diversity and Inclusion Board, Former Chair of the Pinnacle Foundation, Former Chair of Australian Institute of Music and Former Ambassador for the 30% Club Australia. He has held non-executive director roles in ASX listed companies, private equity, start-ups and not-for-profits in the education, retail and FMCG sector.
Elayne Grace, Chief Executive Officer, Actuaries Institute
Elayne Grace, CEO of the Actuaries Institute, leads the actuarial professional body known
for its education program, professional standards and contribution to public policy thought leadership. With 25 years of international experience spanning consulting firms and insurance companies, she provided strategic, economic and financial advice. Elayne played a pivotal role in nurturing early collaborations between businesses, scientists, and NGOs to address climate change and risk. She is a frequent presenter at conferences and has contributed to various thought leadership papers ranging from climate change to Big Data. Elayne's advisory roles have included serving on Commonwealth Treasury expert panel and advising the Indigenous Land Corporation Board on long-term investment sustainability. In 2019, Elayne was recognised in The Australian Financial Review's 100 Women of Influence awards. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries.
Luke Achterstraat, Chief Executive Officer, Council of Small Business Organisations Australia
Luke Achterstraat is the CEO of the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), the only national peak body dedicated exclusively to the interests of over 2.5 million small businesses in Australia. He has advised two federal government ministers and appeared before parliamentary inquiries on behalf of both federal and state industry groups.Most recently he was the NSW Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia and was also appointed by the NSW Government as the inaugural Chair of the NSW Expert Housing Advisory Panel.Luke is passionate about small business, having helped co-found and lead the talent disruption business Commtract.
Ryan Winn, Chief Executive Officer, Science and Technology Australia
Ryan Winn is Chief Executive Officer of Science & Technology Australia (STA) – the nation’s peak body for people working in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). He is a distinguished Chief Executive and Australian policy leader with extensive experience in the public service and higher education sectors. He commenced his role with STA in May 2024. As CEO of the organisation, he is a passionate advocate for advancing science - standing up for and speaking out on the views of the 225,000+ scientists and technologists the organisation represents. This role builds on over a decade of experience in leading work to improve access, investment and use of cutting-edge research and innovation across the country. Prior to STA, Ryan was Chief Executive Officer at the Australian Council of Learned Academies (ACOLA).
Jodie Long, Chief Executive Officer, Speech Pathology Australia 
Jodie is a highly accomplished executive healthcare leader with over
25 years’ experience in the allied health sector. She has the mix of both corporate experience, having worked for a large corporate healthcare company for 11 years
as well as clinical experience, starting out as a Radiographer. Jodie was previously the Chief Executive Officer at the Australasian Sonographers Association (2017-2023) and is currently the Chief Executive Officer at Speech Pathology Australia. Jodie has continually strived throughout her career to create a positive impact and deliver impactful change within the allied health sector.
Sid Marris, Deputy CEO, Minerals Council of Australia
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Sid Marris has had an engaging career that has covered journalism, business, politics and community service. Born in Canberra, he worked in various reporting and management positions at The Australian newspaper from 1991 until 2008, in Sydney and Melbourne before returning for the newspaper to Canberra. From 2008 he was at the Minerals Council of Australia initially in corporate affairs and industry policy and then covering energy, environment, climate change and communities policy. In February 2017 he joined the Office of Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull as senior adviser for energy, resources, climate change, heavy industry and Northern Australia. Late in 2018, he returned to the Minerals Council, working on policy issues such as the future workforce and innovation, state and Territory relationships, as well as advising on strategy. In 2021, he was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer.
Dr. Lara Roeske, Board Chair, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
Dr Lara Roeske is a general practitioner, non-executive director and board chair based in Melbourne spanning more than 20 years. Dr Roeske has worked in advisory roles to key stakeholders including federal and state governments, on steering committees and guidelines working groups and has represented the RACGP across a range of domains. Dr Roeske’s Chair roles currently include Chairing the Board of Directors of both the Royal Australian College of General Practitioner (RACGP), Australia’s largest medical college and Araluen, a community organisation that provides disability services and supports for adults living with disabilities.
John Palermo FCA, Board Chair, Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
John Palermo FCA is a highly experienced Chartered Accountant with over 25 years in practice, specialising in private family office advisory and the for-purpose sector. He currently serves as the Chair of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and the Royal Perth Hospital Research Foundation. In addition, John is a Board member of Wesley College and Catholic Education Western Australia. John’s professional expertise in governance and community roles is instrumental in advising private family offices in relation to their governance frameworks and philanthropic pursuits supporting the arts, medical research, conservation, education, and social welfare across the country. In 2024, John represented the accounting profession before the Senate and the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services. He also contributed to the Productivity Commission’s inquiry into Philanthropy and the Not-for-Profit sector in Australia.
Naomi Edwards, Chair, Australian Institute of Company Directors
Naomi, an actuary by profession, brings to the table more than 15 years of experience across a diverse range of boards, including ASX-listed companies, superannuation funds, government entities and not-for-profits. Naomi was appointed the Chair of the Australian Institute of Company Directors in July 2024. Her role as the 2023 President of the Actuaries Institute of Australia, and her tenure on the AICD board from 2018–22, underscore her deep engagement with Australia’s governance and financial sectors. Naomi is a Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries (London and Australia). A former Partner of Deloitte, where she ran the Financial Services Industry Group. Naomi has had an executive career in the life insurance industry advising life insurers on M&A, valuations and pricing. Naomi has also worked extensively with fund managers and superannuation funds, in the Industry Super, retail ESG and ethical super spaces. She currently works as a Chair and Non-Executive Director across a variety of listed and unlisted companies.
Lyn Lewis-Smith, Chief Executive Officer, BESydney
Lyn Lewis-Smith is CEO of BESydney and leads a global team of professionals spanning Europe, North America and Asia who are charged with securing global meetings of strategic, economic and social benefit to Sydney, Australia. The organisation works across sectors that include infrastructure, technology, professional services, advanced manufacturing, education and health. Lyn has led transformation globally, passionately advocating for Australian business, scientific and cultural achievements on the world stage. She received the Destination Marketing Association International’s Humanitarian Award for her published research into the social legacies of hosting international business events: Determining Business Events Legacies Beyond the Tourism Spend. An experienced non-executive director in chair and member roles on boards and committees, she is an Adjunct Professor and Advisory Board Member of the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Business School, Non-Executive Director of the Association of Australian Convention Bureaux, Director of Destinations International, Committee for Sydney and Women’s Resilience Centre and Regional Chair of DestinationNEXT. Lyn is a strong advocate for the advancement and professional development of women in all facets of leadership in Australia.
Prof. Richard Mackay, AM, Convenor of ICOMOS GA2023
Professor Richard is Director of Possibilities at Mackay Strategic Pty Ltd, an expert adviser to the World Heritage Committee, Adjunct Professor at Deakin University, and was recently appointed to the Australian Heritage Council. He has more than 40 years’ experience in cultural heritage practice, in Australia and globally. Richard has served as Chair of the Australian World Heritage Advisory Committee, non-Executive Director of the NSW National Trust, on the NSW Heritage Council, and as the inaugural Chair of the NSW State Heritage Register Committee. Richard received the ‘Sharon Sullivan Award’ for his contribution to Australia’s national heritage, is a Member of the Order of Australia for services to archaeology and cultural heritage, and last year became an honorary member of ICOMOS – the International Council on Monuments and Sites. Richard was Convenor and chaired the bid committee for the highly successful global General Assembly and Scientific Symposium of ICOMOS hosted in Sydney in 2023.
Kathy Nguyen, Senior Lawyer, Governology
Kathy has extensive experience working with associations both nationally and in the Asia-Pacific, on association structure, operations and governance. She has reviewed hundreds of constitutions, and regularly presents to organisations on membership, governance and events. Kathy has worked for Associations Forum, the Governance Institute of Australia, Ernst & Young, the Trade Association Forum in London and for the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. Kathy holds Bachelors of Laws & Business and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE).
Michael Bell, Senior Associations Advisor, Associations Forum
Michael is a Chartered Accountant, Fellow of the Governance Institute and Graduate of the Institute of Company Directors. He has worked in chartered accounting practices and the banking and finance industry holding General Manager roles in Finance, Strategy and Operations. More recently he has consulted in governance, financial control and risk management to a range of organisations. He has been an active Committee Member in several Not for Profits and joined the board of Coeliac NSW&ACT before becoming President of Coeliac Australia in 2016. During his time as President he successfully transformed the organisation from a federated to a national company limited by guarantee. Michael brings a broad governance, finance, project management and risk perspective to his roles ensuring this works in a positive way to achieving strategic goals.
Ally Zidwick, Account Executive, Higher Logic
Ally Zidwick is an Account Executive at Higher Logic, an industry leader in association engagement platforms. Higher Logic supports over 3,000 associations globally to create meaningful, yet simple member experiences through the use of their online community and marketing automation solutions. In her 4 years at Higher Logic, Ally has built extensive knowledge of the association market, having worked with organisations across North America, Europe, and Australia. At the start of 2023, she left home in the US to join Higher Logic's team in Sydney, a dream she has had since completing her university study abroad program in Australia. Ally is passionate about understanding how associations can best support members and add value throughout the entire member lifecycle.
Ash Sutale, Chief Executive Officer, EA Insurance
Ash has worked for almost 22 years in the Insurance industry in various roles predominantly in the corporate space before moving into the NFP sector just over 5 years ago. It has been a welcome change and he loves working with organisations to help them protect their mission. He is passionate about supporting NFP clients, and believes that providing insurance solutions is a supportive way of assisting organisations in managing their risk effectively and is equally important in helping organisations provide a duty of care towards their employees and volunteers. He believes that each organisation has a part to play in their respective communities to partner with, and support one another to grow effective leaders and be impactful in the broader community.
Steve Brendish, Chief Executive Officer, 2 Dam Creative
Steve is at the helm of 2 Dam Creative – a full service digital agency and your absolute unfair advantage in the land of Associations. A risk taker in the digital product space driving fearless ideas, crisp technology, and bold solutions, Steve takes a nimble approach to transforming digital ideas (think mobile apps, software, websites, branding, and more) into meaningful realities that change the way people interact with technology. Working with Associations for almost twenty years, Steve leads with curiosity and insight, curating digital solutions that allow Associations to grow, progress, and protect their membership, business, and industry. Englishman by name, Australian by nature, Steve is well versed on the AI world speaking circuit – spreading ideas and sharing tools so more businesses and Associations can embrace innovation and succeed with confidence. When everyone’s treading the same digital path, it’s time to explore the route less travelled.
MAJOR PARTNERS
ICC Sydney
ICC Sydney is Australia’s leading convention, exhibition and entertainment precinct, located at the intersection of the city’s academic, cultural and technology hubs. Distinguished by its striking design, ICC Sydney stands apart as a symbol of excellence in Australia’s most cosmopolitan city. More than a venue, ICC Sydney functions as an incubator of ideas and advocate for community, giving clients the opportunity to contribute to the city’s cultural capital in meaningful ways. ICC Sydney’s commitment to community, dedicated team of event experts and best-in-class ICT infrastructure all make it well placed to deliver engaging and extraordinary events every time.
Business Events Sydney
Backed by over 50 years’ experience and built on relationships, our global team works across Asia, Australia, Europe
and the Americas. During the entire process, we’re with you every step of the way. We're committed to helping you win and host something unforgettable. BESydney is an independent not for profit, supported by the NSW Government, City
of Sydney, and industry.
Higher Logic 
Higher Logic Thrive brings together three core pillars of association technology - Community, Marketing and MemberManagement - into one integrated and easy-to-use solution. Association professionals gain actionable insights into what their members value most, enabling organizational growth and creating staff efficiency while minimizing technology costs. With Higher Logic Thrive, associations will jumpstart member engagement using pre-built communities and save staff time with out-of-the-box automated marketing solutions. And, with member management included, many organizations can consolidate their technology costs and transition away from complicated, expensive, and non-integrated vendors.
PREMIUM PARTNER
EA Insurance Services 
EA Insurance Services is a specialist insurance brokerage. We are a not-for-profit and exist exclusively to serve faith and not-for-profit organisations. Established in 1987 to help churches and not-for-profit organisations obtain insurance that suits their unique requirements, we work with a broad range of insurers to give you the best cover for your specific needs at a competitive price.
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Beaumont People offers dedicated Recruitment Solutions for Associations, Institutes and membership organisations. We offer preferential rates for temporary, contract and permanent positions. Since 2013, our reputation for quality work and industry expertise has seen this division place candidates at all levels including CEO’s, Membership Managers, EA/PA’s, Office Assistants, Accounts/Finance, HR, Marketing & Communications and Policy/Advocacy. We also provide Career Coaching, Transition, Outplacement Services and Professional Development Programs.
2 Dam Creative
2 Dam Creative has been your unfair advantage in the world of associations for almost two decades. Ready to future proof your association? Put your association in your member’s pocket with a fully branded and customised mobile app, curate a commercially astute and visually stunning website, build a bolder brand to attract and retain members, or leverage our full suite of digital agency solutions to grow, progress, and protect your industry. It’s innovation, without the price tag.
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
The Association Specialists
The Association Specialists (TAS) is a family owned company and are one of the largest providers in the Professional Conference Organiser space for Not-for-Profit organisations, in addition to being the largest service provider for Association Management services to the Not-for-Profit, For Purpose sector in the Australasian Region. With more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, providing association management services to over 80 Associations and delivering between 20-25 major conferences per year and over 200 smaller events, The Association Specialists is a true leader in its field. Managing awards dinner, webinars, virtual conferences, workshops, exhibitions and large scale conferences across a diverse range of industry sectors, TAS has the experience and ability to deliver exceptional results for its clients.
Professional Advantage
As the premier Microsoft partner in the Associations industry, Professional Advantage offers Upbeat, a Dynamics 365-based platform that simplifies member management. Upbeat's adaptability meets modern associations' needs effectively without costly customisations. We also provide comprehensive IT support, including cloud services, software implementation, and security solutions.
Nexia
Nexia Australia is a full-service accounting and advisory solution supported by global links to Nexia International. Specialising in several key industries, we support a range of clients including not-for-profit entities, small to medium-sized businesses, publicly listed companies, and high-net-worth individuals. At Nexia, our purpose is to help people and businesses reach their potential by providing the insight, advice and support needed to navigate to success.
VETASSESS
VETASSESS is recognised for our expertise in assessments, built on 27 years of experience. Our dedicated team assesses the qualifications and work experience of prospective migrants, and supports individuals’ applications for employment, course entry and industry membership in Australia. We also apply our expertise to assess skills for industry organisations, and consult to governments and government agencies internationally on education and training initiatives.
Destination NSW
In NSW, we take business beyond the boardroom, offering unique and immersive experiences that leave you with long-lasting memories, not just a stack of business cards. Plan your next business event in NSW, for a corporate event that feels anything but
Accru Melboune 
With over 150 years of experience, Accru Melbourne delivers comprehensive finance, audit, and investment solutions tailored for businesses, associations, and individuals. Our range of services includes outsourced finance/CFO solutions, finance system reviews and implementations, advanced financial reporting and dashboarding, internal and external audits, creation of bespoke investment/finance policies, and investment strategy and ongoing management.
D2L
D2L is on a mission to transform the way the world learns. Our learning management system – D2L Brightspace is used by millions of learners across the world. With Brightspace you can engage members and staff with the flexible, meaningful learning opportunities they crave and unlock new streams of revenue to maximise profitability and drive success. In Australia and New Zealand, a range of leading associations use Brightspace including the property, health and governance sectors. Our local presence is strong with an office located in Melbourne and a team of 40 passionate professionals ready to help associations transform learning.
