CPA Australia Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

CPA Australia has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, digital infrastructure, and regional advocacy.

Committed to advancing the accounting profession, CPA Australia delivers comprehensive education, technical support, and global advocacy to ensure members maintain the highest standards of professional excellence and integrity across all industries.

Leadership Roles at CPA Australia

  • Chief Executive Officer - Chris Am
  • Chief Financial Officer - Alex Gemici
  • Division Deputy President (Malaysia) - Surin Segar
  • Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) - Erin Adams
  • President and Chair of the Board - Dale Pinto
  • President of NZ Divisional Council - Liz Plowman
  • Divisional President, Councildeputy (Malaysia) - Chee Jin Gark
  • Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council - Nipun Weerakkodige
  • Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) - Christopher Yip
  • Chief Information Officer - Barbara Teasdale
  • Chris Am - Chief Executive Officer

    Chris Am, the Chief Executive Officer at CPA Australia, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the professional accounting body. Overseeing the alignment of member services with global regulatory standards, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization maintains its reputation for excellence in education and technical support. Chris Am manages high-level relationships with international bodies and government regulators to advocate for the accounting profession. By driving initiatives that expand the reach of professional training, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the value proposition for members across diverse sectors. This leadership role involves constant engagement with the Board to refine long-term goals and operational efficiency. Through the implementation of robust governance frameworks, the Chief Executive Officer secures the sustainability of the organization. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of innovation that supports the evolving needs of the global accounting community.

    Alex Gemici - Chief Financial Officer

    Alex Gemici, the Chief Financial Officer at CPA Australia, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning for the organization. Overseeing the allocation of resources across education, training, and advocacy programs, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the financial stability required to support a vast membership base. Alex Gemici directs the budgeting processes and financial reporting systems that provide transparency to regulators and stakeholders. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling operational costs, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the fiscal discipline necessary for sustained growth. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the executive team to evaluate the financial impact of new service offerings and market expansions. Through rigorous risk management and audit oversight, the Chief Financial Officer protects the assets of the organization. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer provides the financial foundation that enables the delivery of high-quality professional services to members.

    Surin Segar - Division Deputy President (Malaysia)

    Surin Segar, the Division Deputy President (Malaysia) at CPA Australia, drives regional advocacy and member engagement initiatives across the Malaysian market. Overseeing the representation of professional views to local regulators and industry bodies, the Division Deputy President (Malaysia) ensures the organization remains a prominent voice in the regional accounting landscape. Surin Segar coordinates with the divisional council to deliver tailored training and networking opportunities that address the specific needs of local members. By fostering strong connections with academia and the public sector, the Division Deputy President (Malaysia) expands the influence of the profession within the region. This leadership role involves supporting the President in executing strategic objectives that align with the global mission. Through active participation in regional forums, the Division Deputy President (Malaysia) promotes the standards of excellence associated with the organization. Ultimately, the Division Deputy President (Malaysia) strengthens the professional community in Southeast Asia.

    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 strategic direction and member advocacy efforts within the Australian Capital Territory. Overseeing the engagement of local accounting professionals, the Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) ensures that the organization effectively represents the interests of members to government and regulatory bodies. Erin Adams directs the council in providing high-quality education and professional development programs tailored to the unique requirements of the region. By facilitating dialogue between industry leaders and policymakers, the Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) promotes the value of the accounting profession. This leadership role involves managing council operations and ensuring alignment with the national strategy. Through consistent outreach and support, the Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) fosters a vibrant professional network. Ultimately, the Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026) drives regional growth and professional standards.

    Dale Pinto - President and Chair of the Board

    Dale Pinto, the President and Chair of the Board at CPA Australia, governs the strategic oversight and corporate governance of the organization. Overseeing the Board of Directors, the President and Chair of the Board ensures that all activities align with the core mission of supporting the accounting profession. Dale Pinto directs the development of long-term policies that guide the organization in its advocacy, education, and training efforts. By facilitating high-level discussions on industry trends and regulatory changes, the President and Chair of the Board maintains the organization's position as a leader in the global accounting sector. This leadership role involves working closely with the Chief Executive Officer to ensure operational success and ethical compliance. Through the promotion of transparency and accountability, the President and Chair of the Board upholds the reputation of the organization. Ultimately, the President and Chair of the Board secures the future of the profession.

    Liz Plowman - President of NZ Divisional Council

    Liz Plowman, the President of NZ Divisional Council at CPA Australia, leads the strategic initiatives and member advocacy efforts across New Zealand. Overseeing the local council, the President of NZ Divisional Council ensures that the organization provides relevant education and technical support to members in the region. Liz Plowman directs the engagement with local regulators and industry stakeholders to represent the interests of the accounting profession. By fostering a collaborative environment, the President of NZ Divisional Council promotes professional development and networking opportunities that enhance member value. This leadership role involves aligning regional activities with the broader national and international goals of the organization. Through active participation in professional forums, the President of NZ Divisional Council strengthens the presence of the organization in the local market. Ultimately, the President of NZ Divisional Council drives the advancement of accounting standards and professional excellence throughout New Zealand.
    Liz Plowman

    Chee Jin Gark - Divisional President, Councildeputy (Malaysia)

    Chee Jin Gark, the Divisional President, Councildeputy (Malaysia) at CPA Australia, supports the regional leadership in executing strategic initiatives within the Malaysian market. Overseeing the operational support for divisional council activities, the Divisional President, Councildeputy (Malaysia) ensures that member services are delivered effectively and efficiently. Chee Jin Gark directs the coordination of professional development programs and networking events that cater to the needs of local accounting professionals. By assisting in the advocacy efforts directed at local regulators, the Divisional President, Councildeputy (Malaysia) helps maintain the influence of the organization in the region. This leadership role involves collaborating with other council members to address emerging industry challenges and opportunities. Through dedicated service, the Divisional President, Councildeputy (Malaysia) contributes to the growth and professional standing of the membership base. Ultimately, the Divisional President, Councildeputy (Malaysia) plays a vital role in the regional success of the organization.

    Nipun Weerakkodige - Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council

    Nipun Weerakkodige, the Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council at CPA Australia, assists in the leadership and strategic management of the Northern Territory division. Overseeing the implementation of local member support programs, the Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council ensures that accounting professionals in the region receive high-quality education and technical guidance. Nipun Weerakkodige directs the coordination of regional events and advocacy initiatives that promote the standards of the profession. By working closely with the divisional council, the Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council helps address the specific needs of members operating in the Northern Territory. This leadership role involves supporting the President in maintaining strong relationships with local industry and government bodies. Through active engagement, the Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council fosters a supportive professional community. Ultimately, the Deputy President CPA NT Divisional Council contributes to the overall mission of the organization by strengthening regional member engagement.

    Christopher Yip - Divisional President, Council (Malaysia)

    Christopher Yip, the Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) at CPA Australia, manages the strategic direction and member advocacy for the Malaysian division. Overseeing the council's efforts to provide comprehensive training and technical support, the Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) ensures that members remain at the forefront of the accounting profession. Christopher Yip directs the engagement with local regulators and industry partners to represent the views of the profession effectively. By fostering a culture of professional excellence, the Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) enhances the value of membership in the region. This leadership role involves coordinating with the national office to align regional activities with global standards. Through the promotion of professional development and networking, the Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) strengthens the local accounting community. Ultimately, the Divisional President, Council (Malaysia) drives the growth and influence of the organization within the Malaysian market.

    Barbara Teasdale - Chief Information Officer

    Barbara Teasdale, the Chief Information Officer at CPA Australia, architects the digital infrastructure and technology strategy that powers member services. Overseeing the development of secure platforms for education and technical support, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to professional resources. Barbara Teasdale directs the implementation of data analytics and cybersecurity protocols to safeguard member information and organizational integrity. By modernizing internal systems, the Chief Information Officer drives operational efficiency and enhances the digital experience for accounting professionals. This leadership role involves coordinating with other C-suite leaders to integrate technology into the broader business model. Through the deployment of scalable cloud solutions, the Chief Information Officer supports the global reach of the organization. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer transforms complex data into actionable insights that improve member engagement and professional development outcomes.

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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 Alex Gemici (Chief Financial Officer) and Surin Segar (Division Deputy President (Malaysia)).
    Who is part of CPA Australia’s executive team?
    The executive team of CPA Australia includes leaders such as Chris Am (Chief Executive Officer), Alex Gemici (Chief Financial Officer), Surin Segar (Division Deputy President (Malaysia)) 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, Division Deputy President (Malaysia), Divisional President, Australian Capital Territory Council 2024 (Term 2020-2026), President and Chair of the Board.