Beau Tydd elected ACS President to lead technology profession
Beau Tydd has been elected as President of the Australian Computer Society (ACS) for the 2026-27 term, following a vote by the ACS Congress. Tydd will succeed Helen McHugh, who has served in the role since 2024.
Leadership transition
Tydd will take over the presidency at a time when the technology sector's influence on the wider economy continues to grow. McHugh's term was noted for broad engagement with members and supporting the professional development of Australia's technology workforce.
"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," said Beau Tydd, President-elect, ACS.
Professional background
Tydd is a non-executive director at Feros Care and an Industry Professor at Deakin University's School of Information Technology. He has more than 25 years of senior leadership experience across the technology sector in Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Since joining ACS as a member in 2005, Tydd has contributed to professional recognition, diversity, and sector development. He previously chaired the Queensland Branch Executive Committee and served on ACS's Management Committee and as a Congressional Representative.
Strategic direction
Tydd said in a statement that ACS must continue to "ensure our professionals have the skills, ethics and support to lead responsibly." He added that he is committed to working with members, partners, and policymakers to position Australia as a leader in technology globally.
McHugh expressed her support for the incoming president, reflecting on her own term as ACS President. She said she was privileged to "engage with members across the country and advocate for the issues that matter to them."
McHugh stated: "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."
Organisation priorities
ACS Chief Executive Officer Josh Griggs welcomed Tydd's appointment, citing his experience and commitment to the sector.
"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," said Griggs.
Wider involvement
Alongside his ACS work, Tydd has served as Treasurer of the Australian Smart Cities Association and as Chair for Oxfam (philanthropy and major gifts) Advisory Board. He also participated as a founding independent grants review member of the Internet Society Foundation. Tydd holds advisory and fellowship appointments with several universities, including QUT, Southern Cross University, Central Queensland University, and Griffith University.
He has also lived and worked in the Pacific, gaining experience in the impact of technology and innovation on communities.
Management team
The incoming management committee alongside Tydd will include Rod Dilnutt as Vice President Academic (Technical) Boards and Roger Clarke as Vice President Membership Boards. The Vice President for Communities Boards position is currently vacant.
