In her address, Gina Cass-Gottlieb, the first female Chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), reflects on the challenges of leadership in a time of volatility and uncertainty. She emphasizes the need for leaders to act with conviction rather than consensus, particularly in the face of technological changes, economic pressures, and shifting expectations from various stakeholders.

Cass-Gottlieb outlines four key principles that guide effective leadership: purpose, evidence, impact, and stewardship. She stresses that understanding the purpose of an organization is crucial for maintaining its integrity and making informed decisions. The ACCC's mandate is to promote competition and fair trading while protecting consumers, a responsibility that requires balancing the interests of various stakeholders.

She highlights the importance of evidence-based decision-making, advocating for consultation with diverse groups to inform regulatory actions. However, she also notes that leaders must ultimately exercise their judgment and take responsibility for their decisions, even when faced with complex issues and potential criticism.

Accountability for impact is another critical theme, as leaders must prioritize their resources to address the most significant harms and make meaningful contributions. Cass-Gottlieb reflects on her own journey in competition law, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in enhancing decision-making quality.

Finally, she discusses stewardship, the responsibility leaders have to future generations. By investing in the organization and its capabilities, leaders can ensure that they leave behind a strong foundation for their successors. Cass-Gottlieb concludes by reiterating the importance of courage and conviction in leadership, especially during uncertain times.