The Australian Data and Insights Association (ADIA) is set to mark 35 years of industry leadership at its upcoming Leaders Forum, with tech industry pioneer and former global CEO, Steve Vamos, confirmed as a special keynote speaker.
The annual Leaders Forum, set to be held in Melbourne on May 8, will bring together the sharpest minds in Australia’s data, insights and research industry to share insights around this year’s theme of “Reflect. Evolve. Lead,” which pays tribute to the ADIA’s 35-year legacy, while also looking to the future.
Vamos will share lessons from his 40-year career in information technology and digital media in Australia, New Zealand, the US and Asia, focusing on how to navigate technology, leadership and change.
Vamos has worked in the tech and media industry since the 1980s, leading companies such as IBM, Apple, Microsoft, ninemsn and Xero. He has also been a non-executive director of several ASX-listed companies including Telstra, Fletcher Building and David Jones, along with several smaller start-up and emerging businesses.
He recently published a book, Through Shifts and Shocks, that shares his experiences and his roadmap for leading organisations in changing times.
Vamos is set to join a stellar line-up of guest speakers for this year’s Leaders Forum, including the five imperatives for the C-suite in the age of generative AI from Accenture Song ANZ Head of Data & AI, Jan Thijs; the state of play on the macroeconomic landscape from EY’s Regional Chief Economist, Cherelle Murphy; a Privacy Law update from CIE Legal Partner, Andrew Maher and emerging cyber threats and how businesses can better protect themselves from Gallagher National Placement Manager – Cyber & Technology, Robyn Adcock and Head of Incident Response, Reece Corbett-Wilkins.
The forum will also feature a panel discussion, led by Cato & Clive partner Clive Mathieson, exploring the industry’s history and upcoming trends, with The Evolved Group Partner, Garreth Chandler, Luma Research CEO, Sally Joubert and FiftyFive5 Partner, Jenny Witham, set to share their thoughts.
Sarah Campbell
ADIA CEO, Sarah Campbell, said: “2025 is a significant year for the ADIA as we mark 35 years of industry leadership. This year’s Leaders Forum is not only an opportunity to reflect on the changes that have shaped our sector over the past three decades, but also to look ahead – to the impending AI revolution, more stringent privacy laws, and the ever-present challenge of cyber security.
“These are not concerns limited to our industry alone, but shared across sectors, and addressing them will be critical to the continued strength and stability of the environments in which we and our clients operate.
“To have someone of Steve Vamos’ considerable experience as a guest speaker at this year’s event is truly special. Steve has been on the frontline of every significant technology shift and economic shock since the 1980s, leading some of the world’s biggest tech companies.
“His depth of expertise is unmatched – I’m certain his insights will help our members support their teams and organisations through the next phase of growth and change.”
The 2025 ADIA Leaders Forum will be held at the EY Melbourne offices. The ADIA Leaders Forum is sponsored by Forsta, Gallagher, GiftPay, Dynata, CIE Legal, EY Sweeney and Enfonica.
Top image: Sarah Campbell and Steve Vamos