Australian Catholic University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Australian Catholic University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategic operations, financial management, academic governance, and institutional marketing.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility, Australian Catholic University empowers students through innovative research and diverse educational programs across health, law, and business sectors.

Leadership Roles at Australian Catholic University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Petrus Swemmer
  • Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of - Mary Futol
  • Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer - Patrick Woods
  • Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of - Laura Hooper
  • President - Rajisa Shrestha
  • President and Founder of Overbooked Book Club - Selena Zeidan
  • President of the Brisbane Nursing Society - Rachel Famularo
  • Chief of Staff - Margriet Wooldridge
  • Chief Marketing Officer & External Relations Director, Marketing - Kathryn Vozella
  • Chief People Officer - Angelle Laurence
  • Petrus Swemmer - Chief Financial Officer

    Petrus Swemmer, the Chief Financial Officer at Australian Catholic University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing budgetary allocations for health sciences, education, and law programs, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources support the core mission of academic excellence. This role involves rigorous analysis of revenue streams and expenditure to maintain the university's competitive position in the higher education market. Petrus Swemmer directs financial planning and reporting, providing the board with critical data for strategic decision-making. By optimizing capital investments, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary funding for research initiatives and campus infrastructure. This leadership role requires balancing fiscal prudence with the need for innovation in teaching and learning. Through careful management of assets, the Chief Financial Officer supports the growth of the university while upholding the values of faith and social responsibility.

    Mary Futol - Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of

    Mary Futol, the Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of at Australian Catholic University, directs the operational execution of diverse academic portfolios. Managing the integration of research and vocational training programs, the Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of ensures that administrative functions align with the university's broader strategic goals. This role involves optimizing service delivery to domestic and international students, enhancing the overall educational experience. Mary Futol oversees the implementation of operational policies that foster an inclusive community environment. By coordinating across various departments, the Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of drives efficiency in the delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate services. This leadership position requires constant monitoring of performance metrics to ensure that the university meets its commitment to excellence. Through strategic resource management, the Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of supports the institution's impact on society.

    Patrick Woods - Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer

    Patrick Woods, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer at Australian Catholic University, architects the corporate strategy and operational framework for the entire institution. Overseeing large-scale infrastructure and administrative systems, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer ensures that the university maintains a robust foundation for academic growth. This role involves leading cross-functional teams to improve service delivery across all campuses. Patrick Woods directs the implementation of corporate policies that support the university's mission of social responsibility and inclusivity. By aligning operational capabilities with the strategic vision, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer drives efficiency in both research and teaching environments. This leadership role requires deep engagement with the board and other executive leaders to ensure institutional stability. Through the management of corporate resources, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer secures the university's future as a leader in higher education.
    Patrick Woods

    Laura Hooper - Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of

    Laura Hooper, the Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of at Australian Catholic University, drives continuous improvement initiatives across all student-facing services. Managing the optimization of administrative processes, the Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of ensures that the university provides a seamless experience for domestic and international students. This role involves analyzing service data to identify bottlenecks and implementing solutions that enhance operational efficiency. Laura Hooper directs the refinement of support systems for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. By fostering a culture of excellence, the Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of supports the university's commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. This leadership position requires close collaboration with academic departments to ensure that service improvements align with educational goals. Through the systematic evaluation of operational performance, the Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of contributes to the overall success of the institution.

    Rajisa Shrestha - President

    Rajisa Shrestha, the President at Australian Catholic University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing the academic and administrative leadership, the President ensures that the university remains dedicated to empowering students and making a positive impact in society. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, government bodies, and the broader community. Rajisa Shrestha directs the implementation of long-term goals that foster excellence in education and research across all fields. By championing the values of faith, inclusivity, and social responsibility, the President sets the tone for the entire campus community. This leadership role requires balancing the diverse needs of students, faculty, and researchers to maintain the university's innovative spirit. Through the guidance of the President, the institution continues to expand its reach and influence, providing high-quality undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs to a diverse student population.

    Selena Zeidan - President and Founder of Overbooked Book Club

    Selena Zeidan, the President and Founder of Overbooked Book Club at Australian Catholic University, leads initiatives that foster intellectual engagement and community building among students. Overseeing the development of literary programs, the President and Founder of Overbooked Book Club ensures that students have opportunities for extracurricular growth and social connection. This role involves organizing events that promote critical thinking and discussion, aligning with the university's commitment to academic excellence. Selena Zeidan directs the expansion of the club's reach, encouraging participation from diverse student groups across various fields of study. By creating a space for shared learning, the President and Founder of Overbooked Book Club enhances the overall student experience. This leadership role requires constant innovation to keep the community engaged and motivated. Through the efforts of the President and Founder of Overbooked Book Club, the university cultivates a vibrant environment that values intellectual curiosity and social responsibility.

    Rachel Famularo - President of the Brisbane Nursing Society

    Rachel Famularo, the President of the Brisbane Nursing Society at Australian Catholic University, leads the student organization dedicated to supporting those in the health sciences field. Overseeing professional development workshops and networking events, the President of the Brisbane Nursing Society ensures that nursing students gain the skills necessary for success in their careers. This role involves coordinating with faculty to provide resources that enhance the educational experience of students. Rachel Famularo directs the society's efforts to promote social responsibility and community service within the healthcare sector. By fostering a supportive network, the President of the Brisbane Nursing Society helps students navigate the challenges of their academic and vocational training. This leadership role requires strong communication and organizational skills to manage the society's activities effectively. Through the leadership of the President of the Brisbane Nursing Society, the university strengthens its impact on the health sciences community.

    Margriet Wooldridge - Chief of Staff

    Margriet Wooldridge, the Chief of Staff at Australian Catholic University, coordinates high-level strategic initiatives across the institution. Managing complex administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures alignment between executive leadership and academic departments. This role involves facilitating communication across the university to support the mission of fostering inclusivity and social responsibility. By streamlining internal processes, Margriet Wooldridge directly enhances the operational efficiency of the university. The Chief of Staff monitors progress on key institutional goals, ensuring that resources remain focused on delivering high-quality research and education. Through rigorous oversight of executive projects, the Chief of Staff maintains the integrity of the university's administrative framework. This position requires constant collaboration with various stakeholders to drive the long-term vision of the institution forward while maintaining a focus on the diverse needs of the student body.

    Kathryn Vozella - Chief Marketing Officer & External Relations Director, Marketing

    Kathryn Vozella, the Chief Marketing Officer & External Relations Director, Marketing at Australian Catholic University, leads the brand strategy and external engagement efforts for the institution. Overseeing recruitment campaigns and public relations, the Chief Marketing Officer & External Relations Director, Marketing ensures that the university's mission of faith and inclusivity reaches a global audience. This role involves managing relationships with industry partners and prospective students to drive enrollment growth. Kathryn Vozella directs the development of marketing materials that highlight the university's strengths in health sciences, education, and law. By leveraging digital platforms and community outreach, the Chief Marketing Officer & External Relations Director, Marketing enhances the reputation of the institution. This leadership role requires constant adaptation to changing market trends in higher education. Through strategic communication, the Chief Marketing Officer & External Relations Director, Marketing ensures that the university remains a top choice for students seeking professional development and vocational training.
    Kathryn Vozella

    Angelle Laurence - Chief People Officer

    Angelle Laurence, the Chief People Officer at Australian Catholic University, manages the human capital strategy and organizational culture for the entire institution. Overseeing talent acquisition, professional development, and employee engagement, the Chief People Officer ensures that the university attracts and retains top-tier academic and administrative staff. This role involves implementing policies that promote inclusivity, faith, and social responsibility within the workplace. Angelle Laurence directs the design of training programs that support the professional growth of faculty and staff. By fostering a positive work environment, the Chief People Officer drives the productivity and morale necessary for academic excellence. This leadership role requires constant alignment with the university's mission to ensure that all personnel contribute to the positive impact on society. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief People Officer supports the long-term sustainability and innovation of the university's research and teaching initiatives.
    Angelle Laurence

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Australian Catholic University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Australian Catholic University?
    Australian Catholic University is led by Petrus Swemmer (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mary Futol (Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of) and Patrick Woods (Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Australian Catholic University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Australian Catholic University includes leaders such as Petrus Swemmer (Chief Financial Officer), Mary Futol (Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of), Patrick Woods (Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Australian Catholic University have?
    Australian Catholic University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Australian Catholic University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Australian Catholic University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer, Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of, President.