
Giles Thompson
Pronoun
Chief Executive Officer
VicRoads
Giles Thompson took the helm as Chief Executive Officer of the “new” VicRoads in March 2024, leading a bold transformation to make the organisation more customer‑focused, digitally advanced and commercially driven. Formed through a landmark 40‑year Concession between Macquarie Asset Management, Aware Super, Australian Retirement Trust and the Victorian Government, VicRoads manages over 6.9 million vehicle registrations, issues more than 6.4 million licences, and delivers customer services across a network of 40+ centres and two call hubs.
Giles is steering VicRoads through one of the most significant transformations in its history, elevating digital capability, embedding a culture of performance and placing women leaders at the forefront of change. His career spans senior roles across technology, media, sport and wagering — including CEO of Racing Victoria and executive positions at Betfair Australia, APN News & Media and the Financial Times Group — where he has consistently driven innovation and organisational growth.
Bringing this cross‑sector perspective, Giles will explore how leaders can balance innovation with stability, navigate the challenges of AI and workforce transformation, and build resilient teams that deliver sustained performance in complex, high‑pressure environments.
SESSIONS
Day 1
9:30
C-Suite Panel: The Leadership Balancing Act
How are c-suite leaders adapting their leadership to meet the moment? This panel brings together senior executives to discuss the top trends keeping them up at night – from AI integration and workforce transformation to global instability and cost constraints.
What trends are keeping leaders up at night, and where are they placing their boldest bets?
How AI is reshaping productivity expectations and leadership priorities
Turning AI anxiety into advantage across your organisation through mindset, clarity and upskilling
Strategies for managing fatigue, maintaining trust, and building resilience in high-pressure environments to ensure long-term business performance and adaptability
Lisa Chiba, Managing Director, Momentum Energy
Caroline Rawlinson, Chief Financial and Operational Officer, Culture Amp update positioning
Giles Thompson, Chief Executive Officer, VicRoads
Ryan Baker, Chief Operating Officer, Bunnings