Arete Podcast With Richard Triggs

In this episode of the Arete Executive Podcast, I speak with Dr Zena Burgess FAICD FAPS, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Psychological Society, about her leadership journey across psychology, governance, and health reform. Zena shares how she scaled APS into a digitally enabled organisation with influence at state and federal levels, while also balancing a diverse board portfolio that includes Diabetes Australia, Bully Zero, and a psychedelic start-up. We discuss the importance of advocacy, how to navigate ambiguity as a leader, and why coaching, networks and patience are essential for long-term success. Zena also reflects on gender barriers she overcame early in her career, the role of vulnerability in leadership, and why aligning heart and mind is the key to effective profit-for-purpose organisations. Key Timestamps 00:20 – CEO role at APS: representing 26,000 psychologists, influencing government, and transforming the organisation’s digital capability. 02:33 – Board portfolio: Diabetes Austra