MEDIA RELEASE (AU)

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) member advocate and Everybody Counts founder Pamela Lee FCA has announced her retirement after 40 years with CA ANZ and its predecessor organisations. 

Her retirement will be effective from 19 August 2026.  

Throughout four decades of service, Pamela built a reputation for putting members first, helping practitioners navigate challenges and ensuring their voices were heard within the organisation. 

Reflecting on her career, Pamela said the members were the reason she stayed so long. 

"The members kept me here for 40 years. They knew I'd be their internal advocate," Ms Lee said.  

Alongside her member work, Pamela is proudest of Everybody Counts, CA ANZ's social responsibility program, which since 2006 has supported members and staff to give back to their community through donations, fundraising and volunteering for the organisation's charitable partners. 

"In 2006 I launched Everybody Counts, and in 20 years we have raised $1.9 million for charitable causes. That is the achievement I am proudest of. 

"I think Chartered Accountants ANZ is more member focused than ever," Ms Lee said. 

On what comes next, Pamela is clear she is not slowing down.  

"I don't use the word 'retirement'. I just say I am stopping work. I don't know exactly what I'll be doing, but with my associations with charities I'm sure I'll be busy. I'll look for something I'm passionate about, and I am very active in my church," Ms Lee said. 

Pamela was awarded an Honorary Fellowship (FCA) in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the organisation and the profession. In 2024, she was highly commended as Workplace Giving Champion of the Year at the Australian Workplace Giving Awards, after being nominated for her leadership by the National Breast Cancer Foundation. 

CA ANZ Chief Executive Officer Ainslie van Onselen paid tribute to Pamela's contribution to members, the profession and the wider community. 

"Pamela's commitment to our members has been exceptional. For 40 years she has been a passionate advocate, trusted adviser and tireless supporter of Chartered Accountants across Australia and New Zealand," Ms van Onselen said. 

"Her deep knowledge of the profession, unwavering dedication to service and genuine care for members have left an indelible mark on our organisation. 

"Pamela's impact extends well beyond CA ANZ. Through her vision and leadership of Everybody Counts, she has helped raise close to $2 million for charitable causes and inspired a culture of giving across our membership and our people.  

“Her legacy will continue to make a difference for many years to come." Ms van Onselen said.