In a recent interview, Russell Morris, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at APA, sat down with Byron Connolly, Head of Programs & Value Engagement at ADAPT, to discuss the dynamic landscape of the energy industry and the role of technology in propelling APA into the future.

The conversation shed light on APA’s journey, the challenges they face, and the exciting technological advancements they are embracing.

The above video is only an excerpt.

Only ADAPT’s Research and Advisory Advantage clients can watch our full interview with Russell Morris, APA’s CIO.


Evolving in a Shifting Landscape

APA, historically rooted in business-to-business gas transportation, has found itself at the forefront of an industry worth over $40 billion annually, providing employment for around 100,000 individuals.

However, the energy sector is undergoing unprecedented change, driven by the global push towards achieving net-zero emissions.

As traditional coal-fired energy diminishes and the growth of renewables struggles to keep up, gas emerges as a critical bridge to maintain energy needs. Russell Morris emphasises that this transformative era is a captivating one, especially for someone with a passion for technology and innovation.

Russell’s technologist mindset stems from his familiarity with rapid change, but he acknowledges that the energy industry has never before experienced the magnitude of transformation occurring today.

The company’s commitment to a sustainable future has paved the way for APA to diversify its energy portfolio. With a focus on gas transportation, wind, solar, and battery storage, APA positions itself as a forward-looking energy enterprise, aligning with Russell’s inclination towards technology-driven progress.

Technology at the Core of Change

With a team of around 250 members and a unique co-named function involving finance and technology, Russell Morris oversees the technological evolution at APA.

This relationship between the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and the CIO facilitates strategic decision-making that combines fiscal responsibility with innovative progress.

Technology’s integral role in APA’s transformation is highlighted by its engagement with cutting-edge technologies.

Russell acknowledges that different business segments are at distinct points in their technological life cycles. Some sections are exploring exciting advancements like digital twins, software-defined networks, and predictive data analytics.

These technologies hold the promise of revolutionising how APA operates and predicts the future. However, not all departments have reached this level of technological sophistication; some continue to rely heavily on conventional tools like Excel.

This diversity within the company’s technological maturity presents a challenge: APA must simultaneously cater to varied technological needs, ensuring that innovation benefits everyone.

Empowering the Workforce Through Technology

A noteworthy aspect of APA’s technological journey lies in how technology supports its workforce. Russell emphasises that technology must facilitate tasks rather than complicate them.

APA has reimagined its onboarding process through design thinking and workshops, aiming to make new hires productive from day one.

This transformation not only enhances efficiency but also underscores the company’s commitment to valuing its employees’ time and skills.

Additionally, technology plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent. The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is closely tied to technology’s ability to create a seamless work environment.

By providing tools that streamline operations, enhance decision-making through data analytics, and foster integration, APA is creating an ecosystem where technology empowers its employees.

Integration and Data: The Path Forward

As APA navigates the evolving energy landscape, Russell Morris identifies data quality and integration as key factors for success.

Quality data informs strategic decisions, while seamless integration between systems ensures efficient operations.

In the quest for progress, integration emerges as the critical link, uniting the human and technical elements necessary for streamlined workflows and effective communication.

As the CIO, Russell envisions that data-driven decision-making, coupled with robust integration practices, will propel APA’s progress in the upcoming year. By aligning these factors, the company can adapt swiftly to industry shifts and capitalise on emerging opportunities.

In conclusion, our conversation with Russell Morris, CIO at APA, offers a glimpse into how technology is reshaping the energy landscape.

APA’s embrace of innovation, integration, and data-driven strategies underscores the imperative of adapting to change while fostering a technologically empowered workforce.

As the energy industry hurtles towards a net-zero future, companies like APA exemplify the transformational potential of technology in creating a sustainable and efficient path forward.

Only ADAPT’s Research and Advisory Advantage clients can watch our full interview with Russell Morris, APA’s CIO.

Contributors
Byron Connolly Head of Programs & Value Engagement at ADAPT
Byron Connolly is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer, and ADAPT’s Head of Programs and... More

Byron Connolly is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer, and ADAPT’s Head of Programs and Value Engagement.

Prior to joining Adapt, he was the editor-in-chief at CIO Australia and associate editor at CSO Australia. He also created and led the well-known CIO50 awards program in Australia and The CIO Show podcast.

As the Head of Programs, Byron creates valuable insights for ADAPT’s community of senior technology and business professionals, helping them reach their organisational and professional goals. With over 25 years of experience, he has a passion for uncovering stories about the careers and personal philosophies of Australia’s top technology and digital executives.

When he is not working, Byron enjoys hot yoga, swimming, running, and spending time with his family.

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Russell Morris Chief Information Officer at APA Group
Global CIO with 20+ years’ experience, listed as one of the top 100 CIO’s in the UK and recently the top 50... More

Global CIO with 20+ years’ experience, listed as one of the top 100 CIO’s in the UK and recently the top 50 CIO’s in Australia for 2019-2021.

During my career I have worked in a number of diverse international organisations. In particular ambitious M&A and Private Equity, developing IT strategies to deliver clear business outcomes.

I have established a track record as a collaborative leader, using technology investments to transform and simplify. I pride myself in effectively leading business change inside challenging political situations.

I’m also an avid mentor and supporter of women in STEM.

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Transformation Data