The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has appointed Jane O’Dwyer as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Ms O’Dwyer, who will begin the role on 9 November, brings more than 30 years of experience working at the intersection of research, industry and government in roles spanning higher education, research, public policy, government relations, media, and strategic communications.

Ms O’Dwyer will join ATSE from Cooperative Research Australia, where she has served as CEO since 2021, advocating for industry-led research and collaboration across Australia’s innovation system.

During her tenure, she led a period of substantial organisational growth and increased national engagement, strengthening advocacy for collaborative research and innovation and helping elevate the profile of Australia's Cooperative Research Centres and broader innovation ecosystem.

I’m honoured to have the opportunity to work alongside the Fellows, Board, professional staff and partners in advancing that mission and supporting the Academy's continued contribution to Australia's future.

Ms Jane O’Dwyer

Ms O’Dwyer has been focused throughout her career on strengthening Australia’s innovation capability and translating research excellence into economic and societal impact. Most recently, she has advocated for a more focused, coordinated and ambitious Australian research and innovation system, including through the Australian Government’s Strategic Examination of R&D.

Before joining Cooperative Research Australia, Ms O’Dwyer spent 15 years at the Australian National University, including as Vice-President (Engagement and Global Relations).

Quotes attributable to Dr Cathy Foley AO FTSE FAA PSM, ATSE President:

"I am thrilled that Jane has accepted the appointment to become ATSE's next CEO. She brings deep experience in public policy, government relations, communications and organisational leadership, together with a strong commitment to translating research and technology into benefits for Australia.

“Jane will be joining an organisation with an enormously talented staff and Fellowship, strong programs and growing influence. I am looking forward to working with her as ATSE enters its next chapter.

“ATSE has built a strong reputation for bringing independent, practical expertise in applied science, technology and engineering to the major challenges facing Australia, while also developing the people and capabilities our country will need for the future.”

Quotes attributable to Ms Jane O’Dwyer:

“I’m excited to be joining ATSE at such an important time for Australia.

“The Academy occupies a unique and critical place in Australia's innovation system. Through the expertise, leadership and commitment of its extraordinary Fellows, the Academy brings together some of the nation's most accomplished scientists, engineers, technologists and innovators to improve the lives of all Australians.

“I’m honoured to have the opportunity to work alongside the Fellows, Board, professional staff and partners in advancing that mission and supporting the Academy's continued contribution to Australia's future.

“I would also like to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of outgoing CEO Kylie Walker. Through her vision and commitment, Kylie strengthened the Academy's profile, influence and impact, leaving an important legacy and a strong foundation for the future. I look forward to building on that work with the Fellows and broader ATSE community.”

Biography of Jane O’Dwyer:

Jane O'Dwyer is an executive leader with more than 30 years' experience across higher education, research, public policy, government relations and strategic communications. Since 2021, she has served as Chief Executive Officer of Cooperative Research Australia, the national body for industry-research cooperation.

Previously, she was Vice-President (Engagement and Global Relations) at The Australian National University, where she established and led the University's Washington DC office and held senior leadership roles in public affairs, government relations and stakeholder engagement.

Jane is Chair of the Canberra Writers Festival, has been an Honorary Fellow in the Practice of Government Relations at the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy, and is a Fellow of Ormond College.