Australian Computer Society appoints Prins Ralston as CEO
Tue, 23rd Jun 2026 (Today)
The Australian Computer Society has appointed Dr Prins Ralston as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Dr Ralston had served as Interim Chief Executive Officer since March. A long-standing member of the organisation, he also previously served as President.
Leadership continuity
The appointment puts a veteran insider in charge of the professional body, which represents more than 40,000 technology professionals across Australia. The move comes as ACS sharpens its focus on member support, the country's digital skills pipeline, and the role of the technology sector in the wider economy.
Dr Ralston brings experience from senior roles across engineering, information technology, communications, law, and public administration. His career includes 18 years as a Chief Executive Officer in public, private, and for-purpose organisations.
Most recently, he led Townsville City Council as Chief Executive Officer, overseeing an organisational transformation at an authority with an annual operating budget approaching AUD $1 billion. Earlier in his career, he spent seven years as a partner at top-tier and national law firms, specialising in capital markets and governance.
His academic background includes qualifications in accounting and law, alongside a doctorate in juridical science. ACS also pointed to his experience in ethics and governance in making the appointment.
Sector focus
The change provides continuity after several months with Dr Ralston in the interim role. It also keeps the position in the hands of someone with a long history inside ACS at a time when professional bodies are under pressure to demonstrate value to members and influence workforce policy.
ACS President Beau Tydd outlined the organisation's view of the appointment.
"Prins brings a rare combination of member insight, organisational leadership, and strategic clarity," said Beau Tydd, President, Australian Computer Society.
"As a long-time ACS member and former President, he understands the value ACS provides and the expectations of our members. Combined with his experience leading complex organisations, Prins is well placed to strengthen ACS's impact and ensure we remain focused on delivering meaningful value for members and the profession," said Tydd.
"His appointment reflects our confidence in his ability to lead ACS through its next chapter, with a renewed focus on members, professional standards, digital capability, and the role of technology professionals in shaping Australia's future," added Tydd.
Industry role
ACS has framed the appointment as part of a broader effort to strengthen its role in the technology profession. The body operates across branches in every state and territory and has a long-standing role in professional accreditation, education, and industry advocacy.
That gives the organisation a significant place in debates about digital skills shortages, professional standards, and the make-up of Australia's technology workforce. Industry groups have increasingly argued that those questions extend beyond employers and universities to professional associations that shape training, ethics, and career recognition.
For ACS, appointing a permanent Chief Executive Officer also removes uncertainty around its leadership structure. A settled executive team may help the organisation pursue longer-term priorities in member services and public policy engagement.
Member value
Dr Ralston described the role as leading a profession and community that has shaped his own career.
"ACS has played an important role throughout my professional life, and I understand first-hand the value of belonging to a community that supports, represents, and advances the technology profession," said Prins Ralston, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Computer Society.
"Our focus now is on delivering greater value for members, supporting professional recognition and capability, and helping Australia build the technology workforce and leadership it needs for the future," said Ralston.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to lead ACS and excited about what we can achieve together," added Ralston.