Tales from Tech Titans explores the remarkable journeys and inspirational stories of Australia’s most influential leaders and experts in the tech field. They are people who have defined cultures, built high-performing teams, and created stories that are worth learning. Each week, our host Anton Roe will sit down with one Tech Titans and explore their career journey, the lessons learnt along the way, the wins, the losses, the successes, the failures, and the wisdom they have to offer the next generation of technology talent.
Tracy Moore is a seasoned leader in Data and AI and the General Manager of AI & Data at MYOB. With 26 years of experience, she's been instrumental in building and leading AI and data teams to drive real impact. Her career spans major organizations like Skandia Life, Barclays Bank, ANZ, Teradata, Deloitte, KPMG, Xero, and Telstra.We're unpacking some big questions—have businesses truly tapped into the power of Big Data? How can data storytelling bridge the gap? And with AI chatbots dominating the scene, what's next for ethical AI, especially after controversial moments like Elon Musk's Grok-3 in India?
“I didn't want anyone to judge what I was capable of because they thought I had a young child. I didn't have a picture of him on my desk.” Samantha McIntyre, a former CIO with over 30 years of experience in technology, is also an executive coach dedicated to empowering women in tech.Join us as we dive into Sam's inspiring journey and her mission to help 100,000 women advance their careers in the tech industry.---Tune in now on your favourite platform: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/talesfromtechtitansFollow Tales from Tech Titans on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2zFollow Emmbr for more tech career insights:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihIInstagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9gT
Abbas Kudrati - APAC Chief Identity and Security Advisor at SilverfortAbbas has a 26-year career that has taken him from a Network Engineer to an award-winning CISO with influential roles at top firms like GE Power, KPMG, EY, Public Transport Victoria, and most recently, Microsoft.Join us as we dive into his incredible journey, the latest trends in cybersecurity, and his advice for professionals navigating this ever-evolving field.—⏰ Timestamps:0:00 - 1:50: Who's Abbas Kudrati?1:50 - 5:10: Breaking into the Cybersecurity Industry5:10 - 8:30: Early Roles and Learning the Fundamentals8:30 - 12:00: Working Across Sectors and Scaling Expertise12:00 - 15:20: Leadership in Cybersecurity and Team Development15:20 - 18:45: Cybersecurity Industry Evolution18:45 - 22:10: Why Small and Medium Businesses Are High-Risk Targets22:10 - 25:30: Practical Cybersecurity Measures for SMEs25:30 - 28:50: Balancing Cost and Security for Smaller Teams28:50 - 32:20: Cyber Hygiene and Building Security Awareness32:20 - 35:40: Incident Response Planning for SMEs35:40 - 1:33:45: Career Reflection and Cybersecurity Outlook—Tune in now on your favourite platform: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/talesfromtechtitansFollow Tales from Tech Titans for the latest updates:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2zInstagram: https://bit.ly/4hPftOGFollow Emmbr for more tech career insights:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihIInstagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9gT
Suzanne Hall, a passionate and purpose-driven technology leader who's all about using tech to create real impact. With a career spanning government, not-for-profits, and corporate sectors, Suzanne is committed to working with value-based organisations that drive meaningful change.Join us as we explore Suzanne's value-led career journey, her approach to hype-performance in tech leadership, and the lessons she's learned along the way!
What's the role of a "CIO PLUS"?Noel Toal is CIO at DPV Health and was recognized on the prestigious #CIO50 list in 2022 and 2023 and the #CSO30 list for 2023.Although Noel initially aspired to be a lawyer, his passion for technology began with his first computer, a ZX Spectrum. Over his 30-year career, he has worked across various fields, including IT, Data & AI, and Cybersecurity.---Connect with Noel Toalhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/noeltoal/Connect with Host Anton Roe:https://www.linkedin.com/in/talentsolutions/Tune in now on your favourite platform: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/talesfromtechtitansFollow Tales from Tech Titans on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2zFollow Emmbr for more tech career insights:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihIInstagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9g
Tomas Stvrtecky, Development Director at Civica Asia Pacific, has built an impressive tech engineering career, leaving a lasting impact at well-known organisations like Home Credit International, Creditinfo Solutions, Monster Technologies, IBISWorld, Telstra Health, MYOB, carsales.com.au, and Coles.Join us for an insightful conversation with Tomas as we explore his journey from developer to leader, his unique take on “human resources,” and his actionable advice for aspiring developers.
How will Gen Z change business in the upcoming age of Zconomy? How are mom entrepreneurs being glamorised by social media? All are discussed inEpisode 8 with Sheena Peeters - OFFICIALLY LIVE!Sheena Peeters, Senior Director at Cognizant, is a true powerhouse in Tech. With 30 years of experience, Sheena has built a remarkable career driving innovation and digital transformation across top firms like EY, KPMG, NAB, Aus Post, UniSuper, HESTA, Mercy Health, and more. She even founded her own startup, Rasberry, adding an entrepreneurial edge to her impressive background.
A former Senior Detective ranked #25 on the prestigious CIO50 list, we're super excited to hear John Taylor's stories about his successful tech career! His journey cannot be more intriguing, from tackling a bank robbery on his first day in the police force to successfully transitioning into IT and Security.PART 1 of Episode 28 is OFFICIALLY ON AIR!---Tune in now on your favourite platform: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/talesfromtechtitansFollow Tales from Tech Titans on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2zFollow Emmbr for more tech career insights:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihIInstagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9gT
Meet Anupam Singh, the Managing Director and Founder of DataAIT Technologies.With over 20 years of experience, Anupam has built a reputation for delivering data-driven solutions and making significant impacts at major organizations including Sears Holdings Corporation, Accenture, InterGlobe Technologies, Tech Mahindra, BZAIT Consultancy, and IBM.Anupam shares his unique perspective on "IA before AI" and discusses the 3 key things that AI startups must have to survive and thriveEPISODE 7 IS OFFICIALLY LIVE!
Meet David Willett, CISO at La Trobe University and host of “Cyber Voices” from the Australian Information Security Association (AISA).David's journey from Starbucks Store Manager to CISO proves that a non-tech background can be a HUGE advantage in this field. He is not only an accomplished cybersecurity leader but also a Diversity Champion. Drawing from his personal experience as a gay man in the early "boys' club" era of cybersecurity, David's message on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is one the industry needs to hear.PART 2 of EPISODE 6 IS LIVE!
Meet David Willett, CISO at La Trobe University and host of “Cyber Voices” from the Australian Information Security Association (AISA).David's journey from Starbucks Store Manager to CISO proves that a non-tech background can be a HUGE advantage in this field. He is not only an accomplished cybersecurity leader but also a Diversity Champion. Drawing from his personal experience as a gay man in the early "boys' club" era of cybersecurity, David's message on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is one the industry needs to hear.PART 1 of EPISODE 6 IS LIVE!
Leigh Berrell, a Transformation Tech Leader with 30 years of experience spanning Technology, Engineering, Transportation, Logistics, Peacekeeping, Retail, Utilities, and workforce staffing services. In recognition of his outstanding work, Leigh was named Australian Utilities Chief Information Officer of the Year in 2013 and was ranked 4th in the 2016 Australian CIO50.Tune in to episode 27 now to hear Leigh's insightful stories and lessons learned from his remarkable career. From his early career in the Navy to the importance of being a generalist in the world of Tech, and his unforgettable experience working in war-torn Yugoslavia.
Connie Beck, Group Director of IT Transformation & Digital at Urbis. Connie shared her incredible 25-year career journey as an enabler with a project management mindset and her low point going through redundancy.PART 2 of EPISODE 5 IS LIVE!Listen to Part 1
ou Can Be Redundant BUT Don't Become RedundantConnie Beck, Group Director of IT Transformation & Digital at Urbis. With 25 years of global experience across consulting, managed services, M&A, and project and portfolio management, Connie has seen firsthand how the industry has evolved—and where it's headed next. PART 1 of EPISODE 5 IS LIVE!
Our fifth guest - Kerr Forbes is a seasoned C-Suite business executive and program director, accumulating over two decades of expertise across the UK, Asia, and Australia. Kerr Forbes talks about his unconventional path into Technology, the advantages that he has from his dynamic background and the challenges that he encountered in his career.
How and when to build a career in PMO?Fatimah Abbouchi, a seasoned expert with 21 years of PMO experience, shares invaluable insights on landing your first PMO job. From essential interview tips to navigating the hiring process, she covers it all. Plus, don't miss the red flags to watch out for during PMO interviews!Watch Part 2 of Episode 3 now!
What will be the future of Project, Program and Change Manager in the volatile digital age? How to establish a personal branding in PMO? What causes 70% of projects to fail?All are discussed in our conversation with Fatimah Abbouchi, Australia's First PMO Influencer of the Year.Part 1 of Episode 4 is LIVE NOW!
How did becoming a parent teach you about leadership? Part 2 of our conversation with Paul Jreige leads you into a Tech career journey filled with leadership lessons.Part 2 of Episode 2 with Paul Jreige is OUT!
What are the top 3 secrets for a successful infrastructure rollout? This conversation with Paul Jreige will give you some fresh perspectives.Paul Jreige, Chief Technology Officer at Amotiv Limited, is a seasoned leader in Technology and Risk Management, with an impressive 26-year career across industries like automotive, logistics, FMCG, media, and telecommunications.Listen to learn from his career journey and wealth of experience now
The biggest lesson Eglantine Etiemble has gained from her first-ever leadership role! Eglantine Etiemble, Group Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at PEXA, as she walks us through her incredible 25-year career journey as a true catalyst for innovation and business transformation.Tune in now!
Why are the C-Suite and board levels losing focus on Cybersecurity? What's really the priority now?Continuing our conversation with Andrew Morgan, we discussed interesting topics related to cybersecurity and his non-traditional career path as a CISO. Tune in now
Don McGowan, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Armaguard Group with his incredible 20-year career journey in Digital Transformation and M&A.---Tune in now on your favourite platform: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/talesfromtechtitansFollow Tales from Tech Titans on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2zFollow Emmbr for more tech career insights:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihIInstagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9gT
From Detective to Senior Investigator to establishing a successful career in Cybersecurity, Andrew Morgan is the first guest of Tales from Tech Titans season 2.Andrew Morgan, a seasoned Chief Information Security Officer, with an inspiring—and, as he puts it, fun—career journey. Today, he brings his wealth of experience to the table for an insightful conversation you won't want to meet.
Our 24th Tech Titan, Ayten Ozenc, the seasoned CIO at ABN, shared invaluable career insights from her nearly 30-year journey. She spent 20 formative years of her career exposing to diverse environments: in-house, consulting, private and public. Listen now to her takeaways
In Part 2 of the special episode featuring Andy Foster, the man who helps create the Tech Titans, we dives deep into the CIO role. From how the CIO role has evolved to the 4 CIO types to the skills and mindset every aspiring CIO needs to reach the top. Whether you're a seasoned CIO or an aspiring tech leader, this episode will provide valuable takeaways for your career journey.
A special episode for the festive season! Welcome Andy Foster, the man who helps create the Tech Titans. Andy is a leader who has spent 30+ years shaping leadership and impact across the globe. Unlike our usual Tech Titans, he is the teacher behind the titans-helping senior technology leaders unlock their potential. But what makes this conversation truly special is his incredible journey from serving in the British Army to being part of a Formula 1 team and how he resiliently fought cancer.
From India to Australia, what a journey! We had the privilege to sit down with the 23rd Tech Titan, Leela Kalagara, CIO at GJK Facility Services. She shared her incredible story of transitioning to Melbourne, the motivations behind the move, and the challenges she conquered along the way. Plus, her advice is a must-hear for anyone considering a similar leap! Listen to the full episode: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/HmKQIGNpePb
Last week, we were honored to feature Jen Goeldner, a tech leader whose resilience and determination left us in absolute awe. PART 2 of Episode 33 premieres Thursday, 12 Dec, at 5 PM!
Ever imagine being a Director with 13 years in Nursing and then one day deciding to hit the reset button and become a Business Analyst? Sounds a bit crazy, right? Well, that's exactly what Fi Slaven did! Fi Slaven takes us through waves of excitement: from how nursing skills translate to tech to her biggest career regrets and sacrifices, and how she handled an uncomfortable role. Watch our full episode: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/rpGwfUwS2Ob
Content warning: Please note that this episode briefly mentions death and suicide between minutes 4 and 5. Please prioritise your well-being and skip this section if necessary. What's the secret to building a high-performing team? How did early life experiences shape resilience? And what lessons come from navigating a business collapse with a survival mindset? In this inspiring talk, Jen Goeldner—an accomplished executive leader with a collaborative and fun-centered leadership style—shares valuable insights that will leave you inspired. PART 1 of Episode 36 is LIVE!
To be LIKED or RESPECTED as Leaders? Lisa Dowie, a Velvet-Sledgehammer Leader with an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. In this Terabyte, we reflect on Lisa's incredibly inspiring career spanning Tech and Business, exploring how she overcame challenges as a young female leader and her rise to reputation in PMO. Listen to the full conversation now: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/jx8PrdreROb
Paula O'Toole, Chief Operating Officer at Ausfine Foods, is known as an energetic and visionary Transformation Leader. From the pivotal role of data in AI. It explores transitions during COVID-19 to insights on the controversial debate on flexibility, to real advice for future leaders… PART 2 OF EPISODE 35 IS NOW LIVE!
Jen Rebeiro is a distinguished tech leader listed in the prestigious CIO Top 50 for three consecutive years. From the collapse of Ansett in her first role as a Business Analyst, you'll hear firsthand accounts of resilience and adaptability during the crisis. Full conversation here: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/d6no9qZaHOb --- Listen to the podcast on your favourite platform: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/talesfromtechtitans Follow Tales from Tech Titans on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2z Follow Emmbr for more tech career insights: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihI Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9gT Emmbr Learning Hub: https://bit.ly/3RvwTVU
Paula O'Toole, Chief Operating Officer at Ausfine Foods, is known as an energetic and visionary Transformation Leader. As a seasoned CIO, Paula's expertise lies in operational and IT strategy, with standout skills in strategic planning, digital strategy, and technology leadership, making her a key figure in modern business transformation. PART 1 OF EPISODE 35 IS NOW LIVE!
We were thrilled to have a conversation with Leanne about her experience working in a Travel company during the once-in-a-life-time COVID-19 era. Our 19th guest - Leanne Ayers a seasoned and results-driven head of PMO, whose experience spans renowned organisations such as Suncorp Group, Delaware North, HostPlus and most recently Victorian Electoral Commission. Tune in the Full Episode now! https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/fTlzdeEZtOb Follow Tales from Tech Titans on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2z Follow Emmbr for more tech career insights: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihI Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9gT Emmbr Learning Hub: https://bit.ly/3RvwTVU
Last week, we uncovered some of Dan's biggest insights on leadership and tech, but there's even more to come! Catch Dan's wisdom on cybersecurity, his unique approach to startups, and the interesting“double irony” he discovered looking back on his career. Dan Haagman, the CEO and founder of Chaleit, a leading name in global Cybersecurity Consulting. Dan is also recognised as a Top Cybersecurity Voice on LinkedIn, with nearly 30 years of experience at major firms such as The London Stock Exchange, and as a co-founder of NotSoSecure and 7Safe. PART 2 of Episode 34 is OFFICIALLY ON AIR!
Our host Anton welcomes Tracey Evans, an innovative and future-focused CIO with an impressive track record across major companies like KPMG, Seek, and most recently, Virtus Health. Tracey shares insights from her remarkable career in digital, professional services, and finance, offering a deep dive into her “culture-first” approach to leadership. Join us as she reflects on her journey through a global firms navigating diverse cultures, and the lessons she's learned along the way. Expect valuable takeaways—and a few laughs along the way! Check out our full conversation: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/L6PbjS2LjOb
Dan Haagman, the CEO and founder of Chaleit, a leading name in global Cybersecurity Consulting. Dan is also recognized as a Top Cybersecurity Voice on LinkedIn, with nearly 30 years of experience at major firms such as The London Stock Exchange, and as a co-founder of NotSoSecure and 7Safe. PART 1 of Episode 34 is OFFICIALLY ON AIR!
Ever wondered what it's like to work internally at a top consulting firm like KPMG? Sunil Rane, who built an internal cybersecurity team at KPMG, shares his unique insights on the experience and why it's invaluable for those aspiring to join the consulting world. Don't miss the full conversation packed with more insights! Check it out here
PART 2 of Episode 33 is OFFICIALLY ON AIR! Anna Clive, a distinguished Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Chief Operation Officer (COO), has a remarkable 20-year career marked with significant achievements in Technology and Business Transformation. Anna was recently honoured with the Telecommunications Leader Award for 2024 by iTnews.
When asked about her biggest career regret, Catherine Lopes candidly shared her experience with job burnout. What's inspiring is how she turned it into a valuable lesson she still applies today. --- Catch our full conversation here: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/hfXzZL3JWNb --- #burnout #jobstress #mentalhealthatwork
Anna Clive, a distinguished Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Chief Operation Officer (COO), has a remarkable 20-year career marked with significant achievements in Technology and Business Transformation. Anna was recently honoured with the Telecommunications Leader Award for 2024 by iTnews. PART 1 of Episode 33 is OFFICIALLY ON AIR! --- "What are career prospects in technology?"-Tales from Tech Titans is where we speak with Australia's most influential leaders and experts in the tech field every week to explore their inspirational career journeys. Tech Titans have defined cultures, built high-performing teams, and created stories that can guide your career path. Every lesson learned along the way, every win, every loss, every success, every failure, and the wisdom for the next generation of technology talent are all shared in this podcast. Tune in now on your favourite platform: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/talesfromtechtitans Follow Tales from Tech Titans on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/45vUr2z Follow Emmbr for more tech career insights: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4bcTihI Instagram: https://bit.ly/3KND7ww | https://bit.ly/3VNA9gT
Artificial Intelligence (AI) expert Kendra Vant joins host Anton Roe to discuss how the AI revolution is transforming the recruitment industry and how we can build a strong synergy between humans and AI. --- Watch full conversation here https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/0rmRoPsaJNb --- #aiandhumans #ai #recruitmentchallenge
Matthew Perry, a seasoned National Representative Player with over 10 years of experience in Volleyball Australia, made an impressive pivot into the Tech world. And his tech career is incredibly inspiring! Part 2 of Episode 32 is OFFICIALLY ON AIR
How does a singer with ZERO tech experience become a successful leader in the industry? Meet Mary-Beth Hosking, who did exactly that! Her inspiring journey shows that it's never too late to start fresh and embrace new opportunities.
Matthew Perry, a seasoned National Representative Player with over 10 years of experience in Volleyball Australia, made an impressive pivot into the tech world—and built an incredibly successful career. Part 1 of Episode 32 is now LIVE!
David Jenkins brings his wealth of experience as the seasoned CTO at Pepperstone, with a career that has flourished over almost three decades at the vibrant crossroads of technology, business development, and product innovation. Join our full conversation here: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/y760VioJnNb
Part 2 with Euan Walker, CIO of Judo Bank is here! We cover everything you need to know before diving into tech startups, from mindset shifts and success-driven mentalities to navigating product developments. --- 0:00 - Recap and Introduction 0:52 - Moving from ANZ and start Startup Experience 5:11 - Navigating Product Development Challenges 7:31 - Tech and Banking Challenges 11:07 - Success in a Startup Environment 12:32 - Leadership and Team Building in a Startup 15:04 - Transition to Judo Bank 18:06 - Tech and Business Transformation at Judo 23:03 - Building an Engineering Team 26:08 - Navigating Career Transitions 32:03 - Advice for Aspiring Technologists 38:00 - Ethical Leadership and Professional Development 46:02 - Final Reflections and Looking Forward --- Connect with Euan Walker https://www.linkedin.com/in/euanwalker/ Connect with Host Anton Roe https://www.linkedin.com/in/talentsolutions/
Ever wondered how family dynamics shape career success? A few months ago, our host Anton sat down with Sami for a fascinating conversation about his journey. One key interesting insight? Being an only child uniquely prepared him for today's career success—especially when it comes to mastering relationship management skills