Australian Catholic University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Australian Catholic University has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, marketing, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to social responsibility, Australian Catholic University empowers students to create positive societal change through comprehensive educational programs and research, fostering a community that values faith and inclusivity.

Leadership Roles at Australian Catholic University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Petrus Swemmer
  • Portfolio Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Office of - Mary Futol
  • Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of - Laura Hooper
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Paul Campbell
  • Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer - Patrick Woods
  • Vice-Chancellor and President - Zlatko Skrbis
  • President - Rachel Teudt
  • 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, directs all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Swemmer oversees the university's budget allocation, financial reporting, and investment strategies, ensuring fiscal health and sustainability across all academic and administrative departments. This leadership role involves managing financial risks, optimizing resource utilization, and driving revenue generation initiatives to support ACU's growth objectives. By maintaining robust financial controls and fostering strong relationships with financial institutions, Petrus Swemmer directly contributes to the university's capacity to deliver high-quality education and research programs. Swemmer's financial acumen underpins the institution's ability to expand its reach and impact both domestically and internationally, aligning fiscal policy with the overarching mission of social responsibility and academic excellence.

    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, manages critical operational portfolios and drives strategic execution. Futol oversees the implementation of key university projects and initiatives, ensuring alignment with ACU's educational and research objectives. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across administrative functions. By directing complex projects and managing interdepartmental dependencies, Mary Futol ensures the seamless delivery of services to students and staff. Futol's operational expertise is vital for supporting ACU's commitment to empowering students and making a positive societal impact through its diverse program offerings.

    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, spearheads initiatives focused on enhancing operational effectiveness and service delivery. Hooper directs the coordination of service improvement projects, aiming to optimize student and staff experiences across all university functions. This role involves analyzing existing processes, identifying areas for enhancement, and implementing strategic solutions to boost efficiency and quality. By fostering a proactive approach to service excellence, Laura Hooper ensures that ACU's operations effectively support its mission of empowering students and contributing positively to society. Hooper's dedication to service improvement is fundamental to maintaining ACU's reputation for academic rigor and inclusive community engagement.

    Paul Campbell - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Paul Campbell, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Australian Catholic University, supports the strategic direction and operational management of the university's administrative functions. Campbell assists in overseeing key operational areas, ensuring the efficient delivery of services that support ACU's academic and research programs. This role involves contributing to process optimization, resource management, and the implementation of strategic projects designed to enhance university operations. By collaborating with senior leadership, Paul Campbell helps to drive operational excellence and maintain the high standards expected of a leading educational institution. Campbell's efforts are integral to ACU's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and empowering students to achieve their full potential.

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

    Patrick Woods, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer at Australian Catholic University, provides strategic leadership for the university's corporate functions and operational infrastructure. Woods oversees critical areas including finance, human resources, and information technology, ensuring these departments effectively support ACU's academic and research missions. This role involves driving operational efficiency, managing significant budgets, and implementing strategic initiatives that enhance the university's overall performance and sustainability. By aligning corporate strategy with educational objectives, Patrick Woods ensures ACU can continue to empower students and make a positive impact. Woods's comprehensive oversight is essential for maintaining ACU's commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and social responsibility.
    Patrick Woods

    Zlatko Skrbis - Vice-Chancellor and President

    Zlatko Skrbis, the Vice-Chancellor and President at Australian Catholic University, provides the ultimate strategic vision and leadership for the institution. Skrbis directs all academic and administrative operations, guiding ACU's commitment to empowering students and fostering social responsibility. This paramount role involves setting institutional priorities, championing research excellence, and ensuring the university's continued growth and impact. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and academic rigor, Zlatko Skrbis ensures ACU remains at the forefront of higher education. Skrbis's leadership is instrumental in advancing ACU's mission to make a positive difference in society through education and community engagement.

    Rachel Teudt - President

    Rachel Teudt, the President at Australian Catholic University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the university's operations and mission. Teudt oversees key initiatives aimed at enhancing academic programs, research output, and student success, ensuring alignment with ACU's core values. This leadership position involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, driving institutional development, and championing the university's commitment to social impact and inclusivity. By guiding strategic planning and operational execution, Rachel Teudt ensures ACU effectively empowers students and contributes positively to society. Teudt's leadership is vital for maintaining ACU's reputation for academic excellence and its dedication to community service.

    Margriet Wooldridge - Chief of Staff

    Margriet Wooldridge, the Chief of Staff at Australian Catholic University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the university's senior leadership. Wooldridge manages key initiatives, facilitates cross-departmental collaboration, and ensures the effective execution of strategic priorities aligned with ACU's mission. This role involves streamlining communication channels, optimizing administrative processes, and acting as a key liaison between various university stakeholders. By coordinating projects and driving operational efficiencies, Margriet Wooldridge enhances the university's capacity to serve its diverse student body and advance its research endeavors. Wooldridge's strategic guidance and operational management are crucial for maintaining ACU's commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, and social impact across its programs.

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

    Kathryn Vozella, the Chief Marketing Officer & External Relations Director, Marketing at Australian Catholic University, directs all marketing, communications, and external relations strategies. Vozella oversees the development and execution of campaigns to enhance ACU's brand visibility, attract diverse student cohorts, and strengthen stakeholder engagement. This leadership position involves managing digital marketing, public relations, and alumni relations to effectively communicate the university's mission and impact. By crafting compelling narratives and fostering strategic partnerships, Kathryn Vozella ensures ACU's message resonates with domestic and international audiences. Vozella's expertise is critical in promoting ACU's commitment to academic excellence, social responsibility, and its role in empowering students for societal contribution.
    Kathryn Vozella

    Angelle Laurence - Chief People Officer

    Angelle Laurence, the Chief People Officer at Australian Catholic University, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies. Laurence oversees recruitment, employee development, compensation, and benefits, fostering a supportive and high-performing work environment. This role is critical in attracting and retaining top talent, ensuring that ACU's staff are equipped to deliver exceptional educational experiences and drive research innovation. By championing a culture of inclusivity and professional growth, Angelle Laurence directly contributes to the university's mission of empowering students and serving the community. Laurence's strategic approach to people management is fundamental to ACU's success in its educational and social impact endeavors.
    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 Laura Hooper (Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of).
    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), Laura Hooper (Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of) 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, Service Improvement Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Office of, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Corporate) & Chief Operating Officer.