Christopher Murphy, Managing Director - ThoughtWorks Australia

Professional biography:

Chris is Managing Director Australia for global IT consultancy ThoughtWorks, best known for its use of Agile and Lean software development techniques. ThoughtWorks employs 1000 people across Australia, India, China, the US, Sweden, Canada and the UK, including approximately 120 people in Australia.

Chris has 15 years experience in the ICT industry, in a diverse variety of technical and business roles including as a software developer, computer science instructor, intellectual property lawyer, and in senior commercial and operations positions. Chris joined ThoughtWorks in the UK in 2004, initially as Associate General Counsel and later as Director of Operations, where he was responsible for the commercial, financial, operational and legal aspects of ThoughtWorks’ UK business. After 7 years working overseas, Chris returned home to Australia in January 2008.

Chris holds Bachelor degrees in Science and Law from the University of Melbourne, and Master degrees in Information Technology and Law (Intellectual Property) from Monash University, and is qualified as a solicitor in Australia, England and Wales.

Reasons for nominating and qualities brought to the board:

I am a passionate believer in the transformative aspects of the ICT industry on society, business and our economy, and the importance of a robust and unified representative body such as the AIIA.

Qualities I will bring to the Board include:

Global experience and a fresh perspective. Having recently returned from working overseas, and a close and ongoing involvement with ThoughtWorks’ global operations including regular business visits to India, China, the US and UK, I will help keep AIIA abreast of the latest global trends in the ICT industry.

Commitment to a more diverse, sustainable and attractive Australian ICT industry that is more representative of society (for example, gender and age), and is a destination of choice for graduates and other talented individuals.

A multi-disciplined perspective with a broad background across technology, business, finance and the law, from both user and vendor perspectives, with a deep specialisation in a key foundation of the ICT industry : intellectual property.

A focus on the Australian ICT industry as an enabler of growth, innovation and business value for Australian businesses (small and large), and as an engine of global competitive advantage for a knowledge-based Australia.