29 July, Melbourne | 31 July, Sydney Ready Summit '26

Patrick Kidd is CEO of Future Skills Organisation (FSO), Australia’s Jobs and Skills Council for the Finance, Technology and Business sectors. He leads FSO’s work to strengthen vocational education and training pathways by partnering with industry and the training sector to deliver innovative solutions that address critical skills needs.

With a 30-year career spanning the British and Australian Armies and Deloitte’s Strategy practice, Patrick brings extensive experience in leadership, transformation and strategy. During his time at Deloitte, he played a key role in leading the planning and delivery of the Invictus Games Sydney 2018.

As CEO of FSO, Patrick is focused on accelerating digital capability, putting skills at the centre of workforce planning, and supporting education and training reform to create new pathways for Australians to realise their potential.

As an AI Specialist at Google Cloud, Bec O'Brien collaborates with Australia’s most strategic customers and leading digital native companies to bring the future of work to life.  She is deeply curious about how to harness the creative potential unleashed by LLMs while keeping them firmly grounded in business realities, proving that AI can be both highly imaginative and deeply practical.

With extensive experience across the cloud stack from her time at AWS, Databricks, and Salesforce, she is constantly seeking new ways to connect dots to create outcomes for her customers. Outside of testing new enterprise AI systems, Bec is a registered marriage celebrant, a reformer pilates enthusiast, and an avid seeker of the perfect dirty martini. On stage, she is easily recognizable by her signature custom-tailored, brightly colored pantsuits.

Mick Dunne is the Chief Cybersecurity Advisor at Microsoft where he is focused on ensuring alignment between Microsoft and their customers on cybersecurity challenges, product roadmaps and long-term security needs. Mick and his team bring deep industry experience as former CISOs and CTOs to enable them to work with customers with empathy and understanding of the challenges security teams face.

Prior to joining Microsoft, Mick was the first CISO at Australian Super, and has previously held senior positions in information security at nbnCo, KPMG, and the Federal Attorney General’s department, following a long career with the Royal Australian Navy.

With over 30 years of experience, Mick is a seasoned security professional who has worked across a broad range of industries, including finance, telecommunications, professional services, federal and state government, and defence. His expertise spans cyber, physical, and personal security.

Azadeh Nia is an AI Tech Lead at Microsoft, helping organisations accelerate AI and cloud adoption to drive innovation and business transformation. With deep expertise in Azure, data and AI platforms, and enterprise AI implementation, she works with organisations to design and deliver practical AI solutions in complex environments. Azadeh has extensive experience across the retail, financial services and healthcare sectors, where she partners with leaders to translate emerging technologies into real business outcomes.

Sarah Bradley is the Director of Data Science & AI at Nasdaq Market Surveillance, where she leads the research, development, and deployment of AI and machine learning systems that safeguard the integrity of global financial markets. Nasdaq’s market surveillance technology empowers more than 50 exchanges and 15 regulators worldwide to detect financial crime and maintain trust in capital markets.

Sarah's work focuses on building AI tools that are accurate, transparent, and trusted in high-stakes environments. She has led projects that have transformed how analysts investigate market activity, accelerating investigations, improving the quality of insights, and ensuring technology aligns with evolving regulatory expectations.

Recognised as the Women in AI APAC Award Winner (Finance), a finalist in the Financial Review AI Awards, and a speaker at Vogue Codes and AI4HER, Sarah combines deep technical expertise with the ability to bridge the gap between research, product development, regulators, and the public.

Beyond her role at Nasdaq, Sarah is passionate about the future of responsible AI and the importance of representation in STEM. As the Australian Lead for Nasdaq’s Women in Tech Network, she has driven initiatives that support women in technology and actively volunteers as a speaker in schools to inspire the next generation of girls to pursue careers in STEM.

From building AI English tutors back in 2016 to now contributing to the future of AI at Google, Nick lives and breathes the startup and tech ecosystem. As an entrepreneur, he's raised $3M in funding, achieved a successful (small) exit, and most recently led APAC Business Development at Leonardo.ai after its high-profile acquisition by Canva. Now an AI Specialist at Google, Nick works directly with digital natives to solve complex problems and support next-gen technology, focused on AI. He's obsessed with startups, building from scratch, and finding solutions to make systems more efficient.

Dom Price is a Work Futurist, team obsessive, and Partner at Be Luminous — and someone who has lived the chaos of scaling a business from the inside out. Joining Atlassian as employee #600, Dom stayed for 12 years as their resident Work Futurist, helping grow the company to over 16,000 people globally. That's not theory — that's scar tissue.

Dom operates at the intersection of tech and humans, and his mission is simple: upgrade the human operating system of how we work. Because as he'll tell you, "a fool with a tool is still a fool... you've just made them faster." In a world drunk on AI and the next shiny solution, Dom is the pragmatic voice asking whether your people are actually set up to use it well — driving change that's sustainable, not just spectacular.

As a keynote speaker, Dom doesn't trade in polished frameworks or borrowed wisdom. He shares real, lived experience — the messy, hard-won kind — which is exactly why he's in demand. Less thought leader, more battle-tested practitioner.

Co-creator of the Atlassian Team Playbook, TED speaker, and advisor to C-suite leaders globally. Dom believes that work — and life — should be about thriving, not just surviving. A keen traveller and veteran of 53+ countries, he calls Australia home. Manchester made him. The rest? Still very much in progress

Rob is the Head of Innovation Programs for the Australia and New Zealand market at Amazon Web Services (AWS), spearheading initiatives to evangelise Amazon's culture of innovation and facilitate innovation strategy and design thinking engagements with AWS customers across diverse industries and sizes. Rob previously served as a Managing Director at Accenture Digital, and roles at leading financial institutions such as NAB, OCBC Bank, and DBS Bank, as well as in tech firms and digital agencies across Australia, Singapore, and Europe.

Georgie Healy is Australia's leading AI media voice: host of In the Blink of AI, writer of Attention Is All I Need and tech keynote speaker on a mission to make artificial intelligence accessible and entertaining. With an engineering degree, 15 years in tech and most recently launching the AI accelerator at Google, she brings depth and relevance to a space crowded with hype. Now based in Sydney and operating independently, Georgie works with leading companies to translate complex AI developments into conversations that actually land. Her viral content, sold-out executive workshops, and growing community of 8,000+ LinkedIn followers prove that the most powerful AI literacy requires powerful storytelling.

Lee has over 30 years’ experience in the technology industry, having been in engineering, sales and senior leadership roles. Prior to joining the Australian Federal Government, he was the CTO for Microsoft ANZ leading the launch of the OpenAI partnership, ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.

Lee has worked across the UK, Asia, and Australia, he led the Internet of Things team for Amazon Web Services in Asia Pacific, he was a CISSP security architect with RSA Security Asia and IBM as a software engineer in the UK.

Lee has supported Governments around the world as an independent contributor; having been a member of the Singapore AI-Verify Board and a founding member of the NSW AI Assurance Committee.

Today Lee leads the Australian National AI Centre (NAIC), with a mission to enable and support Australian organisations to safely adopt AI technology and services. He has a clear focus on the need for consistent and appropriate responsible safety mechanisms to support AI, balanced with the need to empower Australians with the confidence and trust in the positive and transformative potential of AI.

Jake leads technology strategy and cyber operations at ctrl:cyber, overseeing the roadmap for the Risk Operations Centre (ROC) platform, detection engineering, and automation tooling. He leads the Security Engineering and Automation teams, focused on scaling operations, reducing manual effort, and improving detection efficacy across the business.

Jake has played a key role in evolving Ctrl’s core capabilities, shaping the Risk Operations Centre, Penetration Testing, and Advisory functions to better align with client needs and business outcomes.

With a background spanning engineering, automation, and product leadership, he brings a strong mix of technical depth and strategic oversight to every engagement.

Working closely with executive leadership, Jake helps align platform strategy with commercial priorities while ensuring scalability, resilience, and integration across the broader business.

Known for his precision and forward-thinking approach, he continues to raise the bar for cyber operations and platform innovation at ctrl:cyber.

Ainslie Williams is a Senior AI/ML Specialist at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where she spearheads the implementation of cutting-edge solutions for Australia’s leading software companies. With over 25 years of experience as a researcher, technology leader, and entrepreneur, Ainslie brings a rare depth of expertise to the intersection of human insights and algorithmic scale. Prior to joining AWS, Ainslie was the co-founder and CEO of Qualie and Reel Reviews, where she pioneered video-based research platforms built on proprietary machine learning. Her career has been defined by driving high-impact outcomes for global giants across the FMCG, Financial Services, and Healthcare sectors. A recognized authority in the Australian tech ecosystem, Ainslie serves as a judge for the Australian AI Awards and is a sought-after thought leader in business intelligence and the ethical deployment of AI.

Lauren Capelin is a strategist, systems thinker and former startup ecosystem leader with more than 15 years of experience at the intersection of technology, innovation and social change.

Her career has spanned leadership roles with Amazon Web Services, Startmate, Reinventure and FinTech Australia, where she worked with founders, investors and emerging technologies shaping the future economy. Through this work, she developed a deep interest not only in how industries change, but in how people navigate change itself.

Today, Lauren’s work focuses on leadership, education and the human skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world. She writes at The Liminal Space, exploring systems change and the cultural narratives shaping our future, and is currently researching new models of education through her documentary project, After School.

Drawing on experience across technology, entrepreneurship and systems thinking, Lauren brings a practical and human perspective to conversations about the future of work, learning and leadership.

David is a leading strategic thinker on the application of AI, machine learning and data in the public sector.

David has led the delivery of AI and machine learning projects in the public sector. These projects cover the application of AI to unlock new insights to strategic analysis of the implications of AI for business models and organisational capability. He also leads Nous’ AI Studio, developing internal tools that embed GenAI in group-wide processes, while also creating bespoke, project-specific solutions for individuals and teams.

Mark Anderson is the National Security Officer for Microsoft Australia and New Zealand, responsible for security and trust in Microsoft’s cloud platforms across government, critical infrastructure, and regulated industries. He works closely with policymakers, regulators, and customers to support the secure adoption of cloud technologies and alignment with evolving security, compliance, and risk management expectations.

With more than 30 years’ experience in the IT industry, including over 20 years at Microsoft, Mark has held leadership roles across security, architecture, and strategy in global and regional markets. In his current role, he works closely with government stakeholders and provides oversight of security assurance for Microsoft’s cloud services across Australia and New Zealand.

Mark holds a Master of Cyber Security with high distinction from Edith Cowan University and is an Adjunct Fellow at Macquarie University.

From a young age, Nicole quickly became a dominant force in backstroke in Australia, winning the 50m, 100m and 200m Australian long course titles at just 15-years-old. From there, Nicole won the 100m backstroke a total of ten times during 1987-1996 – a record that remains today. 

Nicole won dual gold medals in the 100m and 200m backstroke at the Pan Pacific Championships Brisbane in 1987 – the first of her four golds and 14 medals in total at the Pan Pacs. 

Selected for the 1988 Seoul Olympics having just turned 17, Nicole finished 5th and 7th in the 100m and 200m backstroke respectively, lighting the fire within that saw her go own to win two golds and a silver at the Commonwealth Games in 1990, before setting a short course world record for the 200m backstroke at an ASC Grand Prix meet in Melbourne in 1992. 

Later that year, at the Barcelona Olympics, Nicole won individual bronze in the 200m backstroke. 

At the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada, Nicole won an incredible four gold medals (100m and 200m backstroke, 4x100m medley, 4x200m freestyle) and one silver (200m backstroke) to bring her career Commonwealth Games medal tally to eight, including six golds. 

In her final year of professional competition, Nicole bagged two more Olympic medals at the 1996 Atlanta Games – silver in the 4x100m medley and silver in the 4x200m freestyle. 

Retiring from competition, Nicole then directed her time and passion into the media, and soon to become one of the industry’s most successful ex-athlete presenters. She began her media career in 1996 with Channel Nine’s programs, Wide World of Sports and Sports Saturday as well as providing expert commentary on the Commonwealth Games. 

Throughout 2006 to 2008, Nicole continued her role with Channel Nine and in 2009 joined Network Ten Sport. She has since become a consistent panelist on Channel Ten’s, The Project 

More recently, 2017 saw Nicole become the host of the ABC’s weekly show, The Sideliners. 

Whilst her professional careers in both sport and the media are to be marvelled at, her roles in the business and charity realm also boast excellence. 

Alongside sister Karen Livingstone, Nicole established Ovarian Cancer Australia, after their mother passed away from the disease. 

Furthermore, Nicole’s business interests revolve around sport and health as she fulfils various director and board roles. These include being a board member of Swimming Australia, the Australian Olympic Committee, Sport Australia Hall of Fame, as well as being the Deputy Chair of VicHealth. 

In December of 2017, Nicole was appointed as CEO of Women’s Football (AFLW), the first woman in charge of the sport. With a resume boasting passion, experience and class, Nicole will look to continue the growth of the ever-growing AFLW. 

In 2025, Nicole received an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for her distinguished service to sports development and administration, to the promotion of women in sport, and to community health. 

Jess spent more than a decade in Australia's biggest newsrooms - breakfast television on Seven's Sunrise, 7NEWS, Nine's Today Show and 2GB Radio. She's covered everything from federal elections and bushfires to COVID19 and high profile court cases. She knows what makes a story. She knows how to hold a room. Now she brings that same energy and expertise to the stage - as an event MC, panel moderator, live presenter and fireside chat host. Jess is also the founder of By The Way Media, a leading Sydney-based media training and content business. 

Chris Smith is Head of Innovation at ReadyTech, leading work on AI, emerging technologies and future skills. He serves on the Board of the Future Skills Organisation, one of Australia's Jobs and Skills Councils, and is widely recognised for advancing alternative career pathways, skills transformation and the practical adoption of AI to deliver economic and social impact.

James Diamond is Chief Operating Officer at ReadyTech, responsible for operational strategy and scalable growth across the business. With extensive experience transforming technology organisations, James is recognised for building operational foundations that enable product innovation, establishing high-performing teams across commercial and delivery functions, and driving sustainable growth through data-informed decision-making and customer-centric operations.

Richard Breden is the CEO of SuperChoice. With more than 25 years of expertise in Payroll, Super and HCM, Richard spearheaded the success of Ascender Cloud Services as the General Manager, overseeing a dynamic team of 400+ professionals across the Asia Pacific region. Previously, Richard held the position of Chief Operating Officer at FlareHR, founded HCM platform enableHR, trusted by over 10,000 employers in ANZ, and was a Partner with workplace law firm FCB Group. In addition to his extensive industry experience, Richard holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Employment Law and Industrial Relations) and a Master of Business Administration

Lauren Ma is Chief Executive for Workforce at ReadyTech, leading strategy and growth across connected, end-to-end HR and people solutions. With extensive experience transforming product, sales, and operations at scale, Lauren is recognised for aligning technology capability with customer outcomes, building high-performing teams, and driving sustainable growth in the evolving people technology market.

Frank Feustal is Head of Product for Workforce at ReadyTech, leading product vision and strategy across SaaS payroll and workforce management solutions. With extensive global experience building high-performing product teams and scaling SaaS platforms across APAC, Europe, and the USA, Frank is recognised for defining product-led growth strategies, identifying emerging technology opportunities, and translating complex customer problems into transformative digital solutions.

Roberta Tuckwell is the Human Resources Manager at Morgan + English Commercial Lawyers. Roberta brings over 15 years’ combined experience in human resources and learning and development, with a strong focus on strategic and operational people management within the legal and professional services industries.

She has worked with leading firms including DWF Australia, Clyde & Co and Chambers Russell and has also provided human resources consulting support across professional services, education and hospitality. Roberta takes a thoughtful and practical approach to people management, working closely with leaders and teams to support effective workplace practices, professional development and organisational performance. 

Roberta is passionate about building positive workplace cultures and supporting individuals and teams through periods of growth, change and development.

Regional Director of People & Culture Operations, Pacific

With over a decade of experience in human resources, I currently hold the position of Regional Director of HR, Pacific, at Langham Hospitality Group. Focused on aligning business strategy with HR initiatives, I am passionate about fostering an engaging and committed organizational culture that prioritizes employee well-being and drives operational success. My expertise in employee relations and performance management empowers our team to create a workplace where collaboration and growth thrive.

At Langham, I oversee HR operations for multiple properties across the Pacific region, contributing to the seamless integration of HR strategies and business objectives. By working closely with teams to enhance employee engagement and refine performance management systems, I help support cohesive, people-centered policies that ensure organizational agility and sustainable success.

Lorraine is the Chief People & Culture Officer at endota, Australia’s leading wellness network. With 20+ years’ executive experience across iconic brands like Priceline, Australian Unity and Bevilles Jewellers, she helps organisations strengthen leadership, build high-performing cultures and sustainable business success through practical, commercially focused people strategies.

As General Manager People, Culture and Safety, Jodie champions human-centric leadership to build thriving, safe, and high-performing workplaces. With 25 years of senior HR leadership and workforce consultancy experience across private and public sectors, she specialises in aligning people strategy with business growth, culture, and safety excellence.

Jodie holds a Bachelor of Management from the University of Canberra, and is a certified professional member of the Australian Human Resources Institute. Alongside qualifications in fitness, Jodie brings together HR leadership experience and a genuine passion for wellbeing. She is driven to create a workplace where people can be their best—and where Viva teams lead the way in inspiring healthier, more active lifestyles across our communities.

Ross Heron is the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Payroll Association, Australia's peak body representing over 11,000 payroll professionals. A co-founder and entrepreneur, Ross has spent his career building and leading organisations at the forefront of payroll, compliance, and workforce management. Most recently, he launched Beryl, Australia's smartest AI-powered payroll assistant, available 24/7 to professionals nationwide.

Kathleen Webber is the Co-Founder and CEO of LiveRem, a real-time pay intelligence platform helping organisations make smarter remuneration decisions through live market data and workforce insights.

She works with leaders across Australia and New Zealand to understand how their organisation compares to the market, where they may be underpaying or overpaying, the true cost of workforce decisions and how to navigate an increasingly complex remuneration and compliance landscape.

Kathleen is passionate about helping organisations move beyond assumptions, outdated surveys and static reports, giving leaders access to the real-time pay intelligence they need to make confident decisions about pay, workforce planning, talent retention and cost optimisation.

Through LiveRem, Kathleen helps organisations turn workforce data into a strategic advantage, enabling better decisions for both their people and their bottom line.

I’m a Revenue and Commercial Operations Executive with 20+ years’ experience leading high-impact sales, customer experience, and operational teams across fast-paced, service-driven environments. I bring a sharp focus on driving revenue growth, improving profitability, and aligning people and processes to deliver exceptional customer and business outcomes.

With a strong track record in revenue leadership, I’ve owned the full sales cycle, from pipeline strategy and territory planning to forecasting, enablement, and execution. I lead with data, empower my teams with clarity and accountability, and focus relentlessly on delivering results that scale.

I’ve successfully led cross-functional teams spanning Sales, Customer Success, Professional Services, GTM, Support and Service Delivery, and have been responsible for building new revenue streams, turning around underperforming portfolios, and embedding repeatable, sustainable growth practices.

I’m equally passionate about culture — my teams consistently achieve high engagement scores, and I take pride in building empowered, performance-driven environments both onshore and offshore. I thrive in complex, evolving environments where outcomes matter and collaboration is key.