)
Cicada Innovations CEO Sally-Ann Williams will step down from the role after six years of transformative leadership at the deep tech incubator where she helped increase its national footprint, support a broader network of startups and forge new industry partnerships.
Since Williams joined the organisation in July 2019, Cicada spread its wings with the launch of two new incubators - the Jumar Bioincubator in Melbourne and the HealthTech Hub at Westmead - as well as the National Space Industry Hub which has supported over 80 startups.
Over that time Cicada also brought Tech23, Australia’s largest and longest-running deep tech event, into the fold, further strengthening its role at the heart of the ecosystem.
Cicada also deepened its collaboration with a broad network of partners across research, industry, and government; including NSW Health, CSL, GRDC, Investment NSW and Breakthrough T1D (Formerly JDRF).
Cicada-supported ventures have gone on to raise more than $6.1 billion and achieve over $1.3 billion in exits, reinforcing the organisation’s role as a critical force in Australia’s innovation ecosystem.
"It's been an extraordinary privilege to lead Cicada Innovations for the past six years," Williams says.
"I'm incredibly proud of the collective impact of our team and our partners: we've brought groundbreaking technologies to life, championed brilliant founders, and cultivated a vibrant deep tech ecosystem.
"We've successfully transformed Cicada Innovations into a national asset, empowering Australian founders to tackle the world's most pressing challenges."
The transition comes as Cicada marks 25 years of supporting breakthrough science and technology. With a clear mission and a strong team in place, the organisation remains focused on its long-term work of backing science-led ventures and strengthening Australia’s deep tech economy for decades to come.
"Williams has played a critical role in positioning Cicada as a national asset,” says Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO, chair of the Cicada Innovations board.
"She has championed deep tech, built a high-performing team, and expanded Cicada’s reach and relevance.
"We are grateful for her leadership and confident in the strength of the organisation going forward."
The Cicada board has commenced the process to appoint a new CEO. In the meantime, day-to-day operations will continue under the leadership of the executive team, with support from Williams during the transition.
)
