ATSE names Jane O'Dwyer as its new CEO

The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has announced the appointment of research and innovation leader Jane O’Dwyer as its new Chief Executive Officer.

O’Dwyer, who will commence in her new role on 9 November, is an executive leader with more than 30 years’ experience across higher education, research, public policy, government relations and strategic communications. Her career has been focused on strengthening Australia’s innovation capability and translating research excellence into economic and societal impact, with O’Dwyer having recently advocated for a more coordinated and ambitious Australian research and innovation system.

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

“I am thrilled that Jane has accepted the appointment to become ATSE’s next CEO,” said ATSE President Dr Cathy Foley. “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.”

O’Dwyer takes over from ATSE’s previous CEO, Professor Kylie Walker, who stepped down from the position on 9 July. During the 6+ years she spent heading ATSE, the organisation launched two new scholarship programs — Elevate: Boosting diversity in STEM and Propel: Australian Submarine Scholarship Program — as well as seeing an uplift in skills, systems and governance that has seen the Academy grow into a trusted and influential voice on the applied science, technology and engineering issues that matter most to Australia’s future.

O’Dwyer said she looks forward to building on her predecessor’s legacy, noting that Walker strengthened ATSE’s profile, influence and impact.

“The Academy occupies a unique and critical place in Australia’s innovation system,” she said. “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.”

Image caption: Incoming ATSE CEO Jane O’Dwyer. Image: Supplied.