AIIA has received at total of 21 nominations to contest the seven vacancies in the annual board elections. The nominations closed on Thursday 20 October.

On-line voting in the election will begin on Wednesday 2 November 2005 and will conclude on 15 November 2005, two days prior to the AGM on Thursday 17 November in Brisbane.

All CEOs of financial AIIA member companies are eligible to stand for election and to vote.

The candidates are:
1. Ian Birks, Ideas International Limited
2. David Bohn, Albus Consulting Pty Ltd
3. Paul Brandling, Hewlett-Packard South Pacific
4. Philip C Chambers, Fuji Xerox Australia
5. Lynda Chapman, AVOGA Pty Ltd
6. Philip Cronin, Intel A/NZ
7. John Debrincat, eCorner Pty Ltd
8. Kim Ford, CSM Group Ltd
9. Michael Gardner, RWD Technologies Australia Pty Ltd
10. Grant Halloran, Orbis
11. Kevin Harris, TAFE NSW
12. Peter Howman, ADI Limited
13. Peter Kazacos, KAZ Group Limited
14. Martin Lack, Martin Lack & Associates
15. Lou Martini, ISA Technologies
16. Alan Munro, Lenovo (Aust & NZ) Pty Ltd
17. Mike Shove, CSC Australia Pty Ltd
18. Tom Stianos, SMS Management & Technology Limited
19. John Stockbridge, Brookstone Technologies Pty Ltd
20. Rod Vawdrey, Fujitsu Australia Limited
21. Anil Verma, Polaris Software Pty Ltd

Details on each candidate appears below:

Ian Birks
CEO and Managing Director Ideas International Ltd, WA.

Ian has been serving as an appointed AIIA Board memberfor the past 12 months and has played an active role in the Local Industry Action Group (LIAG) and the IT Workforce Skills Taskforce, which he now leads. He is a recognised global analyst commentator on strategic and tactical IT industry developments and has written articles for a number of Australian IT publications. Ian has been with Ideas International Limited, an ASX listed IT market research and advisory company exporting products and services to North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific, for more than 15 years. He has been instrumental in taking the company from a start up, through an IPO, to becoming a worldwide market leader in its specialised niche. Ian has a B.Sc Tech (Hons) from the University of Manchester (UK) and is member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Reasons for nominating: I believe that if AIIA is to truly reflect the widest spectrum of local IT industry interests, it needs a strong number of Australian owned companies proactively represented on its board. I have worked with and for small, medium and large sized IT organisations both locally and overseas. With the projected growth in our global region, I believe that it is critical for Australia to focus on sustained and real growth of local IT talent and resources as a catalyst for the future. I’m sure that AIIA can have a key role to play in this process and I will lobby strongly to help achieve the best business climate possible for local IT entrepreneurs, growing Australian companies and multinationals.

David Bohn
Managing Director and CEO Albus Consulting Pty Ltd, SA.

David has been on the board of AIIA for the past 24 months, and is national chair of the Local Industry Action Group (LIAG), which is focused on developing strong Australian based ICT companies. David’s focus is on creating jobs and opportunities within the ICT sector and believes this will be achieved by assisting existing companies to expand their operations, while encouraging new start-ups as a source of continual innovation. David is an entrepreneur with expertise/experience in founding and developing international companies in the software, networking and telecommunications industries. He was founder and CEO of Foursticks Limited, a global networking software company, and currently runs Albus Consulting, a vehicle for investing in and developing new technology companies in Australia. David is a member of Engineers Australia and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. David was named Deloitte SA Innovator of the Year 2002, and Ernst & Young, Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2004 (Central Region).

Reasons for nominating: I intend to further work with AIIA state branches to better harmonise LIAG activities to continue to bolster services to AIIA members. Australia’s future is linked to our ability to develop a world class ICT industry and generate wealth through innovation and commercialisation of Intellectual Property (IP), particularly in the export of ICT products and technologies. Much needs to be done to rally support for this cause and by raising awareness among the public and lobbying government, we can increase the ICT industry’s political potency and bring the public perception into line with its importance to the future prosperity and social well being of Australians. AIIA is the best vehicle to represent the ICT industry and to take on these challenges and I will continue to bring focus and energy towards achieving these goals at board level.

Paul Brandling
Vice President and Managing Director Hewlett-Packard, NSW.

Paul has 20 years experience in the local IT industry, filling a variety of roles in various organisations after starting out as a major account manager. Since 2002 has been responsible for Hewlett-Packard's business in the South Pacific region following a period as the Managing Director of Compaq South Pacific. His experience also includes three major IT mergers Compaq/Tandem, Compaq/DEC and HP/Compaq. Paul is involved in the industry across Australia and internationally and has been an active member of AIIA’s board since 2002. Currently he is chairperson for the Environment Special Interest Group which is working on behalf of the IT industry with Government to help shape policy in this important area. Paul is a member of the International CEO Forum which facilitates executive dialogue across many industries and government. He has a BSC (Honours) from Aston University in the UK.

Reasons for nominating: I have worked to support AIIA as a board member because I believe it is the premier organisation able to represent and advance the interests of the IT industry in Australia. I am able to contribute to a strong and vibrant AIIA through both personal commitment and by leveraging the resources of HP for additional support when appropriate. This assists AIIA to pro-actively and positively represent the interests of all its members and achieve its stated objectives, including influencing Government policy. I would be delighted to have the opportunity to serve for another 3 year term if elected.

Philip C Chambers.
Managing Director Fuji Xerox Australia Pty Ltd, NSW.

Born in London, and after obtaining a BSC in Economics and Geography from Bristol University, Philip worked in various locations for Rank Xerox before discovering Australia while launching a range of new products. He vowed to return and did so in 1985, as Marketing Director for Rank Xerox Australia. In 1988 Philip was appointed Managing Director of Rank Xerox New Zealand before returning to Australia and being appointed Managing Director of the Australian Company in 1998, a role he has filled ever since. Fuji Xerox has an extensive background in document management, SME development through ongoing support for the Small Business Awards and the environment through projects such as the ecoManufacturing Centre in Zetland, a recent winner of the United Nations Earth Award and the Eureka Award for Industry.

Reasons for nominating: Three years ago I chose to step down from AIIA's Board due to increased commitments in the Asia Pacific Region. However, these projects are largely completed and I feel I now have sufficient time to once again contribute to AIIA and to the broader ICT industry. Through experience with the Xerox group I have obtained a broad interest and understanding in document management, working with SMEs, environmental matters and product stewardship - all areas where I believe I can play a constructive role within AIIA.

Lynda Chapman
Managing Director AVOGA Pty Ltd, NSW.

Lynda is the Founder and Managing Director of AVOGA, a growing Australian IT services and consulting company. Originally from Canada, Lynda has spent more than 25 years in the Australian IT industry working as CIO at Channel 7, manager of large financial leading-edge IT projects and in sales and sales management.

Reasons for nominating: For continuous learning and to give back to the Australian ICT industry.

Philip Cronin
General Manager Intel Australian and New Zealand, NSW.

As country General Manager of Intel Australia and New Zealand, Philip is responsible for managing Intel’s local operation which embraces the sales and marketing of its computer, communication products and consulting services group. After joining Intel in 1997 Philip headed the Networking Product Division before becoming Intel’s National Sales Manager (Australia & New Zealand) for three years when he was instrumental in growing Intel’s channel revenue through implementing innovative local programs and driving campaigns for Intel’s flagship Pentium 4 and most recently Intel Centrino mobile technology. Key focus for Intel business is Digital Home, Mobility, Health, Education and Business with an emphasis on expanding the market through new usage models.

Reasons for nominating: I believe that it is the responsibility of companies such as Intel and individuals to demonstrate leadership and foster innovation for the Australian market. I am committed to driving the agenda of technology as a key national differentiator, of real significance to the community and business and a vital part of Australia’s future. I believe in the importance of ICT in delivering real outcomes for Australia and recognise the need for a clear industry voice to support growth and development.

John Debrincat
Managing Director eCorner Pty Ltd, NSW.

John has been in the IT business in Asia Pacific for more than 30 years, the past 20 years of which he has been in senior executive roles in both multi-national and Australian owned companies. eCorner is an Australian business predominantly servicing the SME market. John and has been involved with AIIA for more than 20 years and is the current President of the Foundation for IT at the School of Information Technology, University of Sydney; and Chairman of the Australian Computer Society Foundation.

Reasons for nominating: I believe that Australia has lost focus when it comes to IT and innovation, particularly in relation to SMEs. We need to develop a better culture in IT and in the support of local initiatives and business. I hope that I can provide some advice, guidance, support or just plain effort from a role as a board member of AIIA.

Kim Ford
CEO CSM Group Limited, NT.

Kim enjoyed 10 years service in various management positions with CSM Group Ltd, including the past five years as General Manager of CSM Technology, before being appointed CEO in 2004. Prior to joining CSM, he had a distinguished career in the tourism and hospitality industry and is actively involved in a range of community activities. including being chair of the NT Ministerial Advisory Board for Employment and Training. He holds a Bachelor of Business Degree with a major in Information Technology and is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Reasons for nominating: To bring a regional perspective to discussions about the ICT industry and its place in a global economy.

Michael Gardner
Managing Director RWD Technologies Australia Pty Ltd, NSW.

Michael has more than 21 years of business experience, the past 15 of which have been in senior management roles in both internal IT management and management of consulting services businesses across Europe, N. America and Asia/Australia. His primary strength is an ability to focus on the productivity and effectiveness of an organisation to maximize revenue and contribution without compromising the quality of the end product or services. Most recently, he has held leadership roles with Cambridge Technology Partners, DA Consulting Group and is currently running RWD Technologies Australia.

Reasons for nominating: With a background spanning both internal IT and consulting services, I have a unique perspective on the value of IT and Information Services. Being a director of AIIA would provide a platform to share my experience to contribute to the future direction of the industry and to help turn the Information Industry into the key driver of value for businesses in the 21st century.

Grant Halloran
CEO Orbis, NSW.

With eight years as MD/CEO of Orbis, a niche Australian software group focused on enterprise marketing management, and 10 years in banking industry, Grant has a strong understanding of IT start-up and the requirements for growth for small Australian companies competing on the global stage. At 34 years of age, John holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from ANU and is a family man with what he describes as plenty of passion, motivation and fresh thinking.

Reasons for nominating: My entrepreneurial experience and general business background can help AIIA reach out to smaller IT companies and start-ups (businesses often willing to push the innovation edge, and whom the industry needs to see flourish.)

Kevin Harris
Director, TAFE NSW.

Kevin’s career spans many years in IT as a technician, engineer, project supervisor, manager, teacher, and senior management in vocational eduction and training. He has numerous formal qualifications in electronics engineering, mathematics and physics. Currently Kevin’s activities include director roles in a number of organisations, including AIIA’s NSW management committee.

Reasons for nominating: One of the greatest challenges facing AIIA members and effecting future investment in their business is the availability of skilled people. AIIA must have a strong, clear and focussed effort on this challenge. I am a senior leader in vocational education and currently head up Australia's largest provider. Given my extensive experience working within the ICT and technology fields and as a senior leader in education and training, I want to, and can, significantly contribute to that need.

Peter Howman
General Manager, Commercial Systems ADI Ltd, WA.

Peter has extensive experience as Senior ICT Manager in Siemens Plessey, Rockwell, Boeing, Lockheed Martin Company RLM, HP and now as the ADI Australia/Pacific General Manager for Commercial ICT operations. Peter is the current Deputy Chair for the WA AIIA Chapter, Chair for the Curtin University Procurement Advisory Board, a member of the CEO Circle and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Reasons for nominating: To assist the ICT industry coalesces and move forward as an industry and become a voice for AIIA. Because of my background and extensive ICT experience and network, I interface at executive levels within Industry, Government and Academia and I am well placed to assist AIIA in furthering its charter.

Peter Kazacos
Founder KAZ Group Limited, NSW.

Peter has more than 27 years experience in the IT industry and founded KAZ in 1988, guiding it from a small IT services company in NSW to one of Asia Pacific’s leading IT services and business process outsourcing service providers as a fully owned subsidiary of Telstra. Prior to establishing KAZ, Peter held numerous senior technical positions with leading Australian organisations and holds a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering and Bachelor of Science (Applied Mathematics and Computer Science) from the University of New South Wales.

Reasons for nominating: I am currently deputy chairman for AIIA and believe that I would maintain a valuable contribution to the position and the board.

Martin Lack
Director Martin Lack and Associates, QLD.

Martin joined the ICT industry in 1968 to work for a large transnational. He moved to a PC software import company at the begining of the PC revolution. Martin formed his own company 12 years ago and it now runs computer conferences across Australia. He is an ideas man with a ‘can do’ attitude skilled in project management and marketing with an extensive understanding of the impact of new technology. He has been a member of the AIIA Queensland Branch Committee since its inception in 1987 and has been instrumental in making the branch one the most active in Australia with strong member participation and wide recognition by State Government, key users and all ICT vendors.

Reasons for nominating: I am an enthusiastic advocate for the ICT industry and AIIA with a particular passion for the role of state chairs and branch committees and believe it is important they are represented at board level.

Lou Martini
Country Manager Australia & New Zealand ISA Technologies, WA.

Prior to joining ISA Technologies, an innovative Australian owned company headquartered in Perth, Lou held a number of senior positions with DMR Consulting (now Fujitsu) over an 11 year period in the NT, SA and WA. He also has extensive experience in working in Government and was the IT Manager for the Department of Premier and Cabinet. Lou has been actively involved in supporting the growth of the industry and was a founding member and treasurer of the NT AIIA. He also was exhibition chair for SEARCC 1998 held in Darwin, Deputy Convenor of the SA Branch of AIIA, where he was actively involved in securing Adelaide as host city for the 2002 World Computer Conference; and has recently been re-elected to the Executive Committee of the WA Branch.

Reasons for nominating: I would like to contribute to AIIA's efforts in supporting and promoting the continued growth of the ICT Industry in Australia and in fostering greater collaboration between local SMEs, international companies and the research sector. I believe my experience working in Government, with multinational companies and most recently with a WA ICT company exporting services to south-east Asia and involved in leading-edge industry research, as well as my involvement with the AIIA in the NT, SA & WA, enables me to do so.

Alan Munro
CEO Lenovo (Aust & NZ) Pty Ltd, NSW.

Alan was appointed to his current role in May 2005 following Lenovo's acquisition of the IBM Personal Computing Division and provides overall leadership of marketing, sales and distribution of all Lenovo products and services across Australasia. Since starting with IBM New Zealand in 1986, Alan has held a range of sales, marketing, management and executive roles across IBM Australia and New Zealand. He has achieved the coveted IBM sales ‘100% Club’ 12 times and was recognised with the Asia Pacific Top Contributor Award in 1998. He moved to Australia from New Zealand in 1999 when he was appointed Distribution Sector Executive for IBM A/NZ. Alan has a Bachelor of Education degree from Otago University in New Zealand and a Diploma in Teaching from Dunedin Teachers College, New Zealand.

Reasons for nominating: Having started my career as a teacher, I have a personal passion for learning and facilitating discussions which lead to the enhancement of the Australian technology industry. I believe innovation has a critical role to play in Australia's future as it drives consumer buying behaviour, job opportunities, R&D and ultimately, the economic health of the country as we continue to establish our place as a technology leader on the global stage. Given Lenovo's position as the #1 PC company in Asia Pacific and third in the world, I can bring a wealth of contacts and insights to the AIIA Board on how we can leverage international best practice in areas such as improved Chinese-Australian business relations, and through my experience from being involved in one of the most successful technology company alliances of our time.

Tom Stianos
CEO SMS Management and Technology Limited, VIC.

Tom has enjoyed broad experience in the IT sector in the UK, Asia and throughout Australasia and has been managing director of SMS Australia as well as regional director in Victoria, NSW and the ACT. SMS is one of the leading IT services and consulting providers in Australia, with offices in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane as well as London and Singapore. SMS provides IT advice and management to a broad range of industries and leading development of IP and knowledge management systems. Tom graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Applied Science and was awarded the Ford Australia prize for economics. He is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Reasons for nominating: The AIIA Board offers an opportunity to fully contribute to the development of the IT&T industry and play an active role in the development of public policy and advice on developing the ICT industry in Australia.

John Stockbridge
Director Brookstone Technologies Pty Ltd, WA.

John has been in senior sales and management roles in the IT industry in Australia for the past 34 years. He has a long association with AIIA in both Western Australia having been State Convenor for two years and on the executive committee for nine years, and nationally on the board, including the past five years as National Treasurer. Brookstone Technologies is a small Australian company which sells its own locally developed, international award winning software through distributors within Australia and internationally. John is a Fellow of the Institute of Company Directors, a Member of the Australian Computer Society, a serving Rotarian and Paul Harris Fellow.

Reasons for nominating: I believe it is vitally important for AIIA that the smaller states are well represented and that AIIA continues to have access to the dynamics and vibrancy that is small business. This will be especially important in ensuring that any proposed merger of associations properly benefits all parties concerned. I bring to the board experience in running and managing a small business and hope to continue to build on the work we have started in making ICT in Australia a viable investment in our future.

Mike Shove
Managing Director and CSC Australia Pty Ltd, NSW.

Before becoming managing director in 2003, Mike served as CSC's Vice President Enterprise Business Solutions and worked for Digital Equipment Corp and GE Capital for 15 years.

Reasons for nominating: I have been an active Board member during 2005 and am keen to continue to serve the Board during 2006.

Rod Vawdrey
CEO Fujitsu Australia Ltd, NSW.

With more than 25 years experience in the ICT services sector, including four years in senior executive sales and marketing roles at NCR in the US, Rod has significant expertise in understanding and managing the business services and technology needs of business and corporate customers having observed and managed ICT business strategies through the range of bull and bear market cycles and witnessing first-hand the impact of Government policy. These experiences, and membership of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, have provided Rod with a broad perspective to build an extensive ICT industry and business network to lead and motivate the Fujitsu Australia and New Zealand team.

Reasons for nominating: I am an active participator in and strong supporter of our industry associations, notably AIIA and AEEMA and believe AIIA plays a critical role in the ICT industry and the wider community. As the leader of one of the few end to end ICT service providers in our region, I am actively responding to most if not all the current major challenges that confront our industry and believe I can contribute significantly to the board of AIIA. I can offer AIIA members empathy, understanding and a passion to influence future policies and issues which will shape the ICT market landscape. The AIIA board provides an ideal bridging mechanism to extend beyond corporate responsibilities to the broader community within which we operate.

Anil Verma
Director Polaris Software Pty Ltd, NSW.

Anil is an Electrical Engineering graduate from IIT Delhi in India with post graduate qualification in Multimedia from Wollongong University who has been a Australian resident for the past 14 years. A member of the Australian Computer Society, Anil is committed to the Australian IT industry and his background provides him with a deep understanding and relationship with the IT industry in India. He is the founding president of NASSCOM Australia and a member of AIIA's SIG on government procurement. His involvement with the wider Australian community is reflected in his nomination for an Australia Day Award for his contribution to the Aboriginal community.

Reasons for nominating: I share the vision of a growth oriented and innovative IT industry in Australia. With my deep understanding of the Indian IT phenomenon and its growth drivers, I would be able to leverage the learnings for a more meaningful collaboration for the Australian ICT industry. My 25 years experience would contribute to the policy planning and review function of AIIA, while my strategic focus on outcome rather than output would add significantly to what AIIA stands for.