Chris Ellis

I am a commercially minded leader with extensive experience navigating the dynamic digital landscape, from the early days of the internet (Netscape, AOL), the rise of social media and the mobile web (MySpace), the cloud (GorillaStack) and the current Web3 era and rise of AI (Finder). My journey includes steering large organisations through transformative digital shifts, demonstrated by my roles at Reach and Paramount.

I proudly served as the Chief Executive of Finder Australia, an acclaimed fintech company, working closely with the Founders who were driving global operations and international expansion. Our collective efforts earned us top honours, including ranking #1 in KPMG’s Emerging Giants In Asia Pacific report (2022), winning the Best Digital Asset product at the FinTech Awards (2021), and securing certification as a Great Place to Work (2021 and 2022).

As well as being a leader in the boardroom I'm also a passionate advocate for innovation and tech-related job creation. Through membership of the Tech Council of Australia, I strove to foster a culture of innovation and growth. My involvement in the government’s Open Banking (CDR data standards) Committee reflects a dedication to enhancing financial freedom and choice for all Australians.

My early career was marked by contributing to the growth of pioneers like Netscape, Compuserve, AOL, and MySpace. Notably, I negotiated AOL Europe’s original Google deal directly with founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin and won the first-ever Emmy awarded to content delivered via the Internet for the iconic Live 8 concerts in 2005.

During my leadership at MySpace, I led the platform through a period of hyper-growth, scaling it into the largest social network in Europe. Additionally, I transformed IGN into the #1 video games site worldwide, a top 10 YouTube channel, and a recipient of multiple Webby awards.

In recent years, I founded and served as Chief Executive of GorillaStack, a B2B SaaS developer of cloud automation tools, which found success with its acquisition to Swiss exchange listed company SoftwareOne in 2020. Our innovative contributions earned GorillaStack the Startup Specialist of the Year award at ARN's Innovation Awards for three consecutive years.

With an Honours degree in Business Studies, and graduation from Henley Business School’s senior leadership program and the Australian Institute of Company Directors course (GAICD), I am committed to personal growth, driving innovation, and success in the ever-evolving landscape of digital and fintech industries.