The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has appointed Dr Prins Ralston as chief executive officer, effective immediately.
ACS said Ralston has been a member for 35 years and previously served as ACS president. He has been interim CEO since March.
In a statement, ACS president Beau Tydd said the appointment would provide “stability, continuity, and clear leadership” for the organisation and the technology profession.
“Prins brings a rare combination of member insight, organisational leadership, and strategic clarity,” Tydd said.
Ralston said his focus would be on member value, professional recognition and capability, and supporting the technology workforce.
“Our focus now is on delivering greater value for members, supporting professional recognition and capability, and helping Australia build the technology workforce and leadership it needs for the future,” Ralston said.
ACS said Ralston’s background spans engineering, IT and communications, with additional qualifications in accounting and law, and a doctorate in juridical science.
According to ACS, Ralston has served for 18 years as a CEO across public, private, and for-purpose sectors, most recently as CEO of Townsville City Council, where he led an organisational transformation with an annual operating budget “approaching $1 billion”.
ACS also said Ralston spent seven years as a partner in law firms specialising in capital markets and governance.
ACS said it would continue working with members, branches, partners and stakeholders to support growth and recognition of Australia’s technology profession.
