The Australian Computer Society (ACS), has elected Beau Tydd (pictured) as President of ACS for the 2026–27 term, following a vote by the ACS Congress.
Mr Tydd succeeds Helen McHugh, who has served as President since 2024..
In acknowledging Ms McHugh’s contribution, Mr Tydd said: “Helen’s leadership has been instrumental in driving ACS’s mission to support Australia’s technology professionals and to advocate for a thriving, responsible digital economy. Her work has strengthened the organisation’s voice and influence across industry, government and education.”
Mr Tydd who is a non-executive director at Feros Care and an Industry Professor at the Deakin University’s School of Information Technology, brings 25 years of senior leadership, advisory and consultancy experience across the technology sector in Australia and the broader APAC region.
He joined ACS as a member in 2005 contributing to ACS’s efforts to elevate professional recognition, diversity, and innovation within Australia’s ICT sector. Mr Tydd has previously served as chair for ACS’s Queensland Branch Executive Committee (2021-23), a Management Committee member (2022-23), and a Congressional Representative at ACS.
Mr Tydd said, “As technology reshapes every part of society, ACS has a vital role in ensuring our professionals have the skills, ethics and support to lead responsibly. I’m excited to build on Helen’s legacy and support Josh as we work with our members, partners, and policymakers to position Australia as a global technology leader.”
Outgoing President Helen McHugh congratulated Mr Tydd on the appointment: “It has been an honour to serve as ACS President over the past two years. Engaging with members across the country and advocating for the issues that matter to them has been a privilege. I’m confident Beau will continue to champion the ACS mission, accelerating the growth of diverse and highly skilled tech professionals and equipping them with the skills, knowledge, networks and recognition needed to advance their careers and strengthen Australia’s tech future.”
ACS CEO Josh Griggs said, “On behalf of the ACS team, I’d like to congratulate Beau Tydd on being elected President for 2026–27. He brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to growing Australia’s technology capability. I look forward to working closely with Beau to continue strengthening ACS’s impact and advancing Australia’s technology profession.
“I’d also like to thank Helen for her leadership, hard work, and dedication to ACS and Australia’s technology professionals over the past two years.”
In addition to his long-standing involvement on several ACS boards and committees, Mr Tydd served as Treasurer of the Australian Smart Cities Association (ASCA), inaugural Chair for Oxfam (philanthropy and major gifts) Advisory Board, and was a founding independent grants review member of the Internet Society Foundation.
He also contributes his expertise through appointments on multiple university advisory boards and fellowships including QUT, Southern Cross University, Central Queensland University, and Griffith University. His years living and working in the Pacific have given him a deep appreciation for the transformative impact technology and innovation can have on communities.
Along with Mr Tydd, the new Management Committee will include Rod Dilnutt, Vice President Academic (Technical) Boards; Roger Clarke, Vice President Membership Boards; and Vice President for Communities Boards (currently vacant).