Chris Vein, CEO of ACS, is stepping down

Chris Vein, the self-confessed American “Australophile” and former White House, and World Bank executive who became CEO of the Australian Computer Society (ACS) following its most turbulent period, is stepping down after 18 months in the role.

ACS announced it “regrets” that Vein will retire at the end of the year for personal/health reasons. 

“As I step down from my role as CEO, I cannot help but be proud of the transformational journey we have shared,” Vein said.  

“Together we’ve faced challenges, celebrated triumphs, and turned our dreams into tangible successes.  My deepest gratitude goes to each team member for their unwavering commitment, creativity, and hard work.  

“While I may be leaving, the spirit of innovation, indeed of transformation that defines ACS will continue to propel us forward.  I am excited to see what will be accomplished and will always cherish the memories and lessons from this remarkable chapter. “

It will be a time of major change at renewal at ACS, which represents 47,000 technology professionals, as current president Dr Nick Tate hands the reins to current NSW branch chair, Helen McHugh, at the end of the month for a two-year tenure. McHugh is the second woman to lead ACS as president. 

At the time Vein took charge, ACS was recovering from an internal struggle for its soul after former executives pushed to change the legal structure of the not-for-profit organisation from an incorporated association to a limited company limited. Legal action set aside those changes, a management shakeup followed and in July 2022, Vein brought new energy to the CEO role.

Dr Tate said he was “very sad” to see Vein step down, praising him “for his work in reinventing our organisation”. 

“I would like to thank him for his extraordinary hard work and commitment over his time with us. His vision has positioned ACS well to better serve the both the Society’s members and the wider Australian technology community,” he said.

“Chris’ work has redefined ACS and we now move into the next phase of delivering the projects and services launched during his time. ACS is greatly indebted to him and I wish Chris all the very best for the future.”

Tate said the search for a new CEO will begin immediately.