David Thodey

Board Director

David Thodey is a prominent Australian business leader known for his global experience and active involvement in public policy.

Currently, he holds key positions as Chair of Xero, Chair of Ramsay Health Care, and serves as the Chancellor at the University of Sydney starting from July 2024, in addition to being engaged with multiple non-profit organizations.

Prior to his current roles, David served as the Chief Executive Officer of Telstra from May 2009 to April 2015 and held significant leadership positions at IBM, including as the CEO for Australia and New Zealand.

With a strong background in board roles, he has chaired organizations like CSIRO, Vodafone International, Tyro Payments, and the GSM Association, and contributed to various leadership groups and committees.

Recognized for his contribution to business and ethical leadership, David received an Order of Australia (AO) in January 2017 and has been conferred with honorary doctorates from prestigious universities.

In public policy, he has led influential reviews and commissions, such as the decadal review of the Australian Public Service and the Federal Financial Relations review for the NSW Treasurer.

Apart from his board commitments, David is actively engaged in consulting, academia, and public policy arenas, focusing on leadership, workplace equity, technology, and corporate social responsibility.

An advocate of customer-centered organizational transformation, David's expertise spans across technology, digital transformation, and innovation, making him a sought-after speaker on these topics.

His educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and English from Victoria University of Wellington, and completion of a Post-graduate General Management Program at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.

Throughout his career, David Thodey has demonstrated a strong commitment to business excellence, ethical leadership, and societal impact, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the business and public policy landscape.