ACCC’s interim CEO takes on the role permanently

May 5, 2025 2:33

Sarah Proudfoot

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has announced that its interim CEO, Sarah Proudfoot, is officially taking on the CEO position moving forward.

The national regulator confirmed Proudfoot’s appointment in a media release shared on Monday afternoon.

The news comes months after her predecessor, Scott Gregson, stood down from the leadership role to head up the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) as its CEO.

First joining the organisation’s infocentre in 2005, and filling the role of interim CEO in February 2025, Proudfoot has served various leadership roles within the ACCC.

They include executive general manager of the National Anti-Scam Centre; general manager of the retail markets branch at the Australian Energy Regulator; and executive general manager of the body’s infrastructure division — a position she held from 2020 to 2024.

Sarah Proudfoot

When commenting on Proudfoot’s appointment, ACCC chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb expressed her confidence in Proudfoot’s abilities and the opportunities that her assuming the role permanently will bring to the governing body.

“During her career Sarah has consistently demonstrated her ability as an outstanding strategic leader with personal drive, credibility and integrity, and a strong commitment to public service,” Cass-Gottlieb said in the release.

“I am confident that with Sarah’s contribution as CEO leading our capable people, our agency will continue to deliver important outcomes for the Australian economy and community.”

Proudfoot also weighed in on the latest chapter in her career, describing the opportunity as “a significant responsibility and privilege”.

“One of the many things I’ve loved in my time at the ACCC is the fact our work makes a difference to people’s lives every day,” Proudfoot said in the release.

“It is a significant responsibility and privilege to take on the role of CEO and to work with commissioners and our talented, dedicated team in the interests of consumers and protecting competition across our economy.”