CPA Australia Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

CPA Australia has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, and divisional operations.

Driven by a commitment to professional excellence, CPA Australia advances the accounting profession through comprehensive member services, robust advocacy, and a global network, shaping the future of finance and business worldwide.

Leadership Roles at CPA Australia

  • Chief Executive Officer - Chris Am
  • Chief Financial Officer - George Kapitelli
  • President - Cheung Yuen
  • Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council - Nipun Weerakkodige
  • Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) - Erin Adams
  • Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) - Kit Yip
  • President & Chairman - Merran Kelsall
  • Deputy President - SA Division - Andrew Fiml
  • Divisional Deputy President, Council (Malaysia) - Chuang-Li Khoo
  • Chief Information Officer - Barbara Teasdale
  • Chris Am - Chief Executive Officer

    Chris Am, the Chief Executive Officer at CPA Australia, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Am guides the development and implementation of initiatives that support CPA Australia's mission to advance the accounting profession globally. This leadership involves fostering collaboration among internal teams and external stakeholders to enhance member value through education, technical support, and advocacy. The Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the organization's long-term vision, driving growth and maintaining the integrity of professional standards. Chris Am oversees the strategic direction for representing the profession's views to governments and regulators, solidifying CPA Australia's influential position in the financial landscape. This role is critical for navigating market dynamics and ensuring the organization's continued relevance and impact.

    George Kapitelli - Chief Financial Officer

    George Kapitelli, the Chief Financial Officer at CPA Australia, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Kapitelli oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation, ensuring robust financial governance. This leadership role is essential for supporting CPA Australia's educational programs, technical resources, and advocacy efforts through sound financial management. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other executives to align financial strategies with the organization's mission of advancing the accounting profession. George Kapitelli is responsible for financial reporting, risk management, and optimizing financial performance to sustain and expand the organization's services to its members. Kapitelli's oversight ensures the financial stability required for global representation and professional development initiatives.

    Cheung Yuen - President

    Cheung Yuen, the President at CPA Australia, provides high-level strategic guidance and leadership across the organization. Yuen champions the interests of CPA Australia members and the broader accounting profession, working to enhance the value and impact of the organization. This role involves significant engagement with stakeholders, including governments, regulators, and industry bodies, to advocate for the profession's needs. The President oversees the strategic direction for member services, ensuring that education, training, and technical support meet evolving professional standards. Cheung Yuen's leadership is instrumental in fostering a strong professional community and advancing the reputation of CPA Australia globally. Yuen's influence guides the organization's commitment to excellence and its role in shaping financial and business practices.

    Nipun Weerakkodige - Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council

    Nipun Weerakkodige, the Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council at CPA Australia, supports the President in leading the Northern Territory division's strategic initiatives. Weerakkodige assists in overseeing local operations, ensuring alignment with CPA Australia's national and international objectives. This role involves enhancing member engagement within the Northern Territory, promoting professional development opportunities, and representing the division's interests. The Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council works to strengthen the profession's presence and influence within the region. Nipun Weerakkodige contributes to advocacy efforts, technical support, and educational programs tailored to the specific needs of members in the Northern Territory. Weerakkodige's efforts bolster the organization's reach and impact at a crucial regional level.

    Erin Adams - Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026)

    Erin Adams, the Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) at CPA Australia, leads the organization's activities within the Australian Capital Territory. Adams directs local council operations, focusing on member engagement, professional development, and advocacy specific to the region. This leadership role ensures that ACT members receive relevant support and opportunities, fostering a strong professional community. The Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) collaborates with national bodies to represent the profession's interests to local government and regulatory authorities. Erin Adams oversees the implementation of CPA Australia's core services, including education and technical guidance, adapted for the ACT context. Adams's tenure is dedicated to advancing the accounting profession within this key Australian jurisdiction.

    Kit Yip - Divisional President, Council (Malaysia)

    Kit Yip, the Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) at CPA Australia, spearheads the organization's strategic direction and operations within Malaysia. Yip leads the Malaysian division, focusing on enhancing member value through tailored education, technical resources, and advocacy initiatives relevant to the local market. This role involves fostering strong relationships with Malaysian businesses, government bodies, and educational institutions. The Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) ensures that CPA Australia's global standards are effectively implemented and promoted within the Malaysian context. Kit Yip drives initiatives to support the professional growth of Malaysian accountants and advocates for the profession's contribution to the national economy. Yip's leadership strengthens CPA Australia's presence and impact in the dynamic Southeast Asian region.

    Merran Kelsall - President & Chairman

    Merran Kelsall, the President & Chairman at CPA Australia, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the organization and its board. Kelsall guides the board's governance functions, ensuring that CPA Australia operates with the highest standards of integrity and effectiveness. This role is critical in setting the strategic vision for advancing the accounting profession globally and enhancing member value. The President & Chairman oversees the organization's advocacy efforts, representing the profession's interests to governments and regulators worldwide. Merran Kelsall champions initiatives that promote professional development, technical excellence, and ethical conduct among CPA Australia members. Kelsall's leadership ensures the organization remains a leading voice for accountants and financial professionals internationally.

    Andrew Fiml - Deputy President - SA Division

    Andrew Fiml, the Deputy President - SA Division at CPA Australia, supports the divisional president in executing strategic objectives within South Australia. Fiml assists in overseeing local member services, professional development programs, and advocacy efforts tailored to the South Australian market. This role is key to strengthening CPA Australia's presence and impact within the region. The Deputy President - SA Division works to enhance member engagement and ensure the provision of relevant technical support and educational resources. Andrew Fiml collaborates with regional stakeholders to represent the accounting profession's interests effectively. Fiml's contributions are vital for driving the organization's mission at a crucial state level, supporting the growth and development of accounting professionals in South Australia.

    Chuang-Li Khoo - Divisional Deputy President, Council (Malaysia)

    Chuang-Li Khoo, the Divisional Deputy President, Council (Malaysia) at CPA Australia, supports the Divisional President in leading the Malaysian operations. Khoo assists in the strategic implementation of programs designed to benefit members within Malaysia, focusing on professional growth and industry relevance. This role involves enhancing member services, including education and technical support, tailored to the Malaysian economic landscape. The Divisional Deputy President, Council (Malaysia) plays a part in advocating for the accounting profession's contribution to Malaysia's development. Chuang-Li Khoo works to foster a strong network among Malaysian members and promote CPA Australia's global standards locally. Khoo's efforts contribute significantly to the organization's mission and its influence within the Malaysian financial sector.

    Barbara Teasdale - Chief Information Officer

    Barbara Teasdale, the Chief Information Officer at CPA Australia, leads the organization's technology strategy and digital transformation efforts. Teasdale oversees the development and maintenance of IT infrastructure, ensuring secure and efficient operations that support CPA Australia's member services and internal functions. This role is pivotal in leveraging technology to enhance education delivery, technical support, and advocacy platforms. The Chief Information Officer drives innovation in digital solutions, improving member engagement and operational effectiveness. Barbara Teasdale ensures that technology investments align with the organization's strategic goals, facilitating seamless access to resources and information for members worldwide. Teasdale's leadership is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and adapting to the evolving digital landscape of the accounting profession.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CPA Australia Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CPA Australia?
    CPA Australia is led by Chris Am (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as George Kapitelli (Chief Financial Officer) and Cheung Yuen (President).
    Who is part of CPA Australia’s executive team?
    The executive team of CPA Australia includes leaders such as Chris Am (Chief Executive Officer), George Kapitelli (Chief Financial Officer), Cheung Yuen (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CPA Australia have?
    CPA Australia has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CPA Australia’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CPA Australia includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council, Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026).