Innovation and Science Australia appoints CEO

Minister for Innovation, Industry and Science Greg Hunt has announced the appointment of Dr Charlie Day as CEO of the Office of Innovation and Science Australia (OISA) — a role that will see him lead and support national long-term initiatives to boost innovation and science. The appointment follows an international search for a world-leading business, innovation and science strategist and practitioner.

Dr Day has been welcomed by Innovation and Science Australia (ISA) Chair Bill Ferris AC, who said, “The wealth of skills and experience Charlie brings to the role will be invaluable to the board in providing our advice to government on maximising the returns from Australia’s innovation, science and research system.

“Having served as program director for the University of Melbourne’s Carlton Connect Initiative and as a member of the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute’s Translation and Commercialisation Committee, Dr Day is expertly placed to work with the board on improving research translation and encouraging commercialisation,” Ferris continued.

“Dr Day [also] has an outstanding record in fostering the burgeoning start-up scene in Melbourne and is a co-founder of the Melbourne Accelerator Program.”

Ferris thanked OISA’s interim CEO, Ann Bray, for her work in establishing the office and assisting with the board’s agenda over the past 11 months. Bray will continue to support ISA’s work in her new role as general manager of OISA.

In addition, Minister Hunt has announced three new appointments to the ISA board:  

• Professor Bronwyn Harch, executive director of the Institute for Future Environments and Professor of Applied Statistics at the Queensland University of Technology
• Dr Rufus Black, master of Ormond College, president of Museum Victoria and deputy chancellor of Victoria University
• Dr Bronte Adams AM, managing director of Dandolo Partners International

Bringing wide experience across the education, public and private sectors, the new board members join Ferris, deputy chair Dr Alan Finkel and some of Australia’s best minds.