Bill Birkett Memorial Lecture 2025
Framing the third decade of insightful future-oriented thought leadership
Framing Accounting and Accountants’ Future Value Proposition
Michael Ford, known for his track record of understanding and recognising opportunities to create and add value, will speak on how accountants can understand value and value creation, with a view to allowing for meaningful reflection on how we can contribute to the evolving nature of what value is.
Register now to secure your spot to:
- Join with leading voices from the profession to discuss the different roles that accounting and accountants can play in value creation.
- Reflect on the topics that will dominate future thought leadership discussions.
- Reconnect with past and new friends and colleagues.
This event is held by the ºÚÁÏÍø´óÊÂ¼Ç School of Accounting, Auditing and Taxation, in partnership with CPA Australia, to celebrate the legacy of the late Professor Bill Birkett.
Keynote Speaker: Michael Ford, Founding Partner, Equilibrium Group and past CFO of News Corporation Australia and QBE Insurance.
Date
Monday, 24 November 2025
Time
6:00pm – 8:00pm
Registration from 5pm
Location
Museum of Sydney
Corner of Phillip and Bridge Streets, Sydney NSW 2000
| Time | Agenda |
|---|---|
| 5:00pm | Registration and networking with light refreshments |
| 6:00pm | Formal welcome and lecture (Warrane Theatre) |
| 7:00pm | Networking drinks and canapés |
Keynote Speaker
Michael Ford
Partner, Equilibrium Group
Michael Ford is an experienced company director and senior executive with more than 30 years of experience in strategy, financial leadership and organisational transformation.Â
Michael currently provides strategic advice to Boards, CEOs and management teams on strategy, finance, investor relations and digital investment including using AI to transform businesses. He is also coaching senior executives. Along with a small team of former banking colleagues, Michael has developed digital training experiences and programs of work that are being used to create value in many large Australian and global banks and consulting firms. His clients include large financial institutions, ASX-listed corporates and a range of smaller businesses.Â
Michael has previously served as Chief Financial Officer of News Corp Australia, Group Chief Financial Officer of QBE Insurance and prior to that as Deputy Group CFO of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at Lendlease and Southcorp, following his professional beginnings with Price Waterhouse after completion of his Bachelor of Commerce at ºÚÁÏÍø´óʼÇ. Michael also has an MBA, is a Chartered Accountant and has completed the Advanced Management Programs at both Harvard Business School and Insead, France.Â
Michael has led large, diverse teams across Asia, Europe and the United States, guiding them through complex transformations that delivered significant shareholder value and strong stakeholder engagement. He is recognised for his leadership in driving innovation, embedding diversity and fostering collaboration across large operations. He has a strong track record of identifying and realising opportunities to create and add value within organisations and across society.Â
Michael’s extensive experience and current portfolio uniquely position him to offer deep insights into the evolving business environment. He will examine how the accounting profession can drive value creation for customers, shareholders and the broader community in today’s rapidly changing environment.