Central Queensland University Executive and Leadership Team

Trish Clifford, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Central Queensland University, supports the financial health and strategic fiscal planning of the institution. Working closely with senior leadership, Clifford manages financial reporting, budgeting processes, and resource management across the university's broad operational scope. This position involves ensuring compliance with financial regulations, optimizing expenditure, and identifying opportunities for financial growth to sustain the delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, TAFE certificates, and short courses. By maintaining robust financial controls, Trish Clifford enables CQUniversity to invest in world-class research and expand its accessible education model through its extensive network of campuses. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in supporting the university's partnerships with industries and communities, ensuring long-term sustainability and enhanced learning opportunities for all clients.

Narelle Pearse, the Chief Operating Officer at Central Queensland University, manages the operational framework supporting the university's extensive educational offerings. Overseeing campus administration, resource allocation, and service delivery, Pearse ensures efficient functioning across all Australian and Indonesian locations. This critical role involves optimizing business processes, enhancing student support services, and fostering strong relationships with industry partners to create valuable learning opportunities. By driving operational excellence, Narelle Pearse directly contributes to CQUniversity's mission of providing accessible education to a wide array of clients, from aspiring researchers to adult learners. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight ensures the university's infrastructure effectively supports its commitment to world-class research and diverse program delivery, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and TAFE qualifications.

Pierre Viljoen, the President at Central Queensland University, provides strategic direction and executive leadership for the institution's comprehensive educational mission. Guiding the university's vision, Viljoen oversees the development and delivery of a wide range of programs, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, TAFE certificates, and short courses, catering to diverse client groups such as high school students, international learners, and adult professionals. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, promoting world-class research, and ensuring the accessibility of education through CQUniversity's extensive network of campuses in Australia and Indonesia. By championing industry and community partnerships, Pierre Viljoen enhances learning opportunities and strengthens the university's impact. The President's strategic oversight ensures CQUniversity remains at the forefront of providing quality, accessible education and research.

Peter Edwards, the Chief Information Officer at Central Queensland University, directs the institution's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Edwards ensures the seamless delivery of educational technology services to students and staff across Australia and Indonesia. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, implementing innovative learning platforms, and optimizing data management systems to support world-class research initiatives. By driving technological advancements, Peter Edwards enhances the accessibility and efficiency of CQUniversity's extensive network of campuses and online learning environments. The Chief Information Officer's focus remains on leveraging technology to meet the evolving needs of diverse clients, including high school students, international learners, and adult professionals seeking advanced degrees or specialized training.