Hear from business leaders

Garth Hamilton is the co-founder and MD of Assurity Consulting, a leader in quality engineering and AI testing. With 30+ years of IT expertise, he recently guided Assurity’s acquisition by Aspire Systems to boost global digital delivery. A former leader at Fronde and Progress Software, Garth holds a BSc from Canterbury and an executive qualification from Darden. 

Nicki has been with FMG for over 15 years, currently serving as Chief People Officer since October 2023. With a background in senior leadership roles including Chief Recovery Officer and Head of Claims, she specialises in operational expertise and building people capability. A Lincoln University graduate, Nicki is recognised for her collaborative style and leading large-scale business change.

Katie Ham is the GM of People at Assurity Consulting, leveraging 20+ years of expertise in human-centered design and culture. A member of the senior leadership team, she translates complex strategies into employee-first agendas. With dual degrees in Psychology and Management, she is "Dare to Lead" trained and specialises in agile leadership, change management, and maximising employee potential.

Esther joined Workday in April 2023, based in Melbourne. As Industry Advisor, Esther brings insights from our customers' global transformation journeys to the region. Esther is a chartered accountant, with diverse experience spanning professional services (finance transformation and assurance), commercial finance, regional CFO and strategy roles. She has consulted to numerous industries including Public Sector and Healthcare, FSI, manufacturing and distribution, FMCG, Online Media, and has worked across Australia, Asia and North America.

Chrissy Smith is Chief Information Officer at Beca, where she is focused on unlocking the value technology can bring to complex, global organisations. She is passionate about building and developing high‑performing and using digital capability to enable the business to achieve its strategic goals. Chrissy enjoys partnering closely with business leaders to drive meaningful change. 

As Chief Digital Officer at the University of Auckland, Jason Mangan leads digital services for New Zealand’s top university. He oversees enterprise platforms, cybersecurity, and the digital experience for 50,000+ students and staff. A driver of large-scale tech transformation, Jason aligns digital capability with research and teaching. Off-clock, he enjoys surfing, running, and intrepid travel.