2025 September E-Newsletter
A Message from our Executive Director
September has been a busy yet rewarding month for our risk community.
The highlight was our annual CRO Conference, which brought together a record 90+ CROs in person, the largest gathering in our 22-year history.
A sincere thank you to our hosts, KPMG and Rob Warren (Partner in Charge, Risk Services at KPMG & RMA Australia Board Member), for convening such an outstanding event.
The Conference offered discussions ranging from quantum computing and AI to the future of risk management expectations, geopolitical dynamics and economic uncertainty.
We were also privileged to hear from General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Mil) CVO MC (Retd) at the Conference dinner.
In the context of this year’s theme,“The Quantum Risk Leap – Preparing for What’s Next,” his reflections on resilience, principled leadership, and adaptability offered powerful insights for navigating an era of complexity and rapid change. Thank you Sir Peter. A wonderful night was had by all.
At the heart of the Conference and central to what we do at RMA Australia was a powerful reminder: as overseers of risk management, we have a responsibility not just to our organisations, but to the integrity and resilience of the entire financial services industry. The annual CRO Conference is where the sharpest minds in the field come together to ensure this.
Carrying on from the emerging themes of the conference, our September webinar continued the conversation with a lively discussion on Tackling Emerging Fraud and Scam Threats, hosted by NAB. Some of the expert insights certainly challenged our thinking!
Coming up in October is a very special event – In conversation with Andrew Hinchliff, hosted by CBA.
Having commenced in the role of CBA’s Group Chief Risk Officer in February 2025, this is a unique chance to hear Andrew’s perspectives on risk leadership in today’s dynamic environment. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask Andrew questions. Learn more about Andrew here and register to attend below.
Our second October event is our annual Economic Update with Westpac’s Chief Economist, Luci Ellis, hosted by Westpac. This event is always very popular, so please register your attendance below.
Richard Gilbert
Executive Director
RMA Australia
📷: General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Mil) CVO MC (Retd) with RMA Australia President Chris Linde.
CRO Conference Awards
The 2025 Mike Ritchie Award recipient was Michael Smith, for his outstanding contribution.
We were also honoured to present Lifetime Achievement Awards to Catherine Thrum and David O’Brien. Their contributions to RMA Australia are long, varied and influential. Together, representing approximately 20 years of Board service.
✨ Catherine: 12 years of continuous service, including 2 years as President.
✨ David: A foundation member of RMA Australia for over 20 years, with a 7 year term on the Board, including 3 years as President.
We thank Catherine and David for their outstanding service to RMA Australia and their broader contribution to the risk management profession.
Emerging Risk Professionals
⭐This month’s star is ECRP Member Caitlin Stark. ⭐
Caitlin has been working on the Sydney Mentoring Program.
The RMA Australia ECRP Committee is excited to open up their quarterly group mentoring sessions to the broader community – for the first time!These sessions offer a unique opportunity to:
– Receive career guidance from an RMA Australia Board Member
– Learn how to navigate complex situations in risk
– Connect with peers who are also building their careers
DATE: Friday, 26th September
TIME: 12:00 – 1:00 PM AEST
LOCATION: 84 Pitt Street, Sydney CBD
FEATURING: Guy Harding, CRO of NGM Group
* A light lunch will be served *
If you’re interested in joining as a mentee, simply fill out the form linked here: Mentoring Form
Spots are limited – so don’t miss out!
📖 Risk Resources
New! Risk Resources: PwC’s new research, Value in Motion, shows that within a decade, Financial Services will look very different to what it does today. The industry will be redefined by new needs, new expectations and new players. With trillions in value on the table, Australia’s capital stewards will need to evolve to lead what comes next. Visit our Risk Resources page here.
Upcoming Events
8 October | In conversation with Andrew Hinchliff | Hosted by CBA | Webinar | 4 – 5pm AEDT
23 October | An Economic Update with Westpac’s Chief Economist Luci Ellis | Hosted by Westpac | 4pm Presentation. Networking Drinks from 5pm AEDT in SYDNEY.
