Future of Finance - Sydney

Caitlin Iles

Described by Sir Richard Branson as "a game-changer and force to be reckoned with", Caitlin Iles is an experienced venture capitalist, angel investor, advisor (to enterprise and startups), serial entrepreneur, keynote speaker, dyslexic and passionate change maker driving for diversity and equality within the new economy. In recognition of this, Caitlin was awarded the title of one of Australia's top 25 Fintech Influencers (alongside Atlassian's CEO, Mike Cannon-Brookes), given her efforts and commitment to smashing the glass ceiling.

As a venture capitalist, Caitlin has helped to raise approximately $100m and establish Australia's largest portfolio of early stage startups.

Caitlin started her career in psychology (focussed on the rehabilitation of drug dependent persons) and has since gone on to work across a wide variety of industry sectors (advertising, advisory and enterprise), working with and establishing businesses in the Middle East (UAE), Europe, USA, and domestically in Australia. Caitlin has been fortunate to work with some of the world’s most respected companies (i.e. GE), delivering disruptive projects that have revolutionised how complete industries operate.

Today, Caitlin describes herself simply as a disruptor, who is passionate about unlocking human potential, through educating and investing in underutilised, high potential and high value talent, predominantly women, in order to create a better world for all.

Cindy Nicholson
Associate Director, Financial Services Industry - Asia Pacific, OPTUS

Cindy has worked in the financial market sector for almost 30 years. She brings together a unique combination of experience across investment banking, management consulting and technology solutions. Focusing on innovation and thought leadership, Cindy has previously established her own companies and is now recognised for her innovative solutions in the financial services industry across the Asia Pacific region.

Cindy has the ability to understand customer needs and assist in providing solutions, delivering value with tactical and strategic benefits. Having worked in London, the USA, Japan and throughout Asia Pacific, her ability to adapt to different markets and cultures adds great value to her relationship management skills.