Central Queensland University Executive and Leadership Team

Trish Clifford, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Central Queensland University, manages the financial operations that sustain the institution's extensive educational programs and research endeavors. Overseeing fiscal planning and resource allocation, Clifford ensures the financial viability of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, TAFE certificates, and short courses. This position is vital for maintaining accessible education across the university's Australian and Indonesian campuses, supporting diverse student populations. Trish Clifford contributes to the financial strategies that enable world-class research and comprehensive student support services. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's duties include financial reporting, budget management, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations, thereby supporting CQUniversity's mission. By optimizing financial resources, Clifford facilitates partnerships with industries and communities, enhancing learning opportunities through sound fiscal management.

Narelle Pearse, the Chief Operating Officer at Central Queensland University, directs the operational framework supporting the institution's broad educational offerings. Overseeing daily functions, Pearse ensures the efficient delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, TAFE certificates, and short courses across numerous fields. This leadership role involves managing the extensive network of campuses in Australia and Indonesia, facilitating accessible education for diverse client groups including high school students, international learners, and adult students. Narelle Pearse drives the operational strategies that align with CQUniversity's mission of providing world-class research and student support. The Chief Operating Officer's focus extends to enhancing learning opportunities through robust industry and community partnerships, ensuring seamless integration of educational programs with real-world application. This executive ensures the operational infrastructure supports the university's commitment to growth and accessibility across its geographic reach.

Pierre Viljoen, the President at Central Queensland University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional leadership for a comprehensive educational provider. Overseeing all facets of the university, Viljoen guides the delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, TAFE certificates, and short courses, ensuring alignment with the mission of accessible education. This leadership role is pivotal in fostering world-class research and enhancing student support across extensive campuses in Australia and Indonesia. Pierre Viljoen drives the strategic partnerships with industries and communities, cultivating an environment that maximizes learning opportunities for diverse client groups. The President's focus includes advancing the university's reputation, ensuring operational excellence, and championing innovation in educational delivery. By setting the strategic direction, Viljoen ensures CQUniversity remains a leading institution committed to student success and societal impact.

Peter Edwards, the Chief Information Officer at Central Queensland University, architects the technological infrastructure underpinning the university's diverse educational and research activities. Overseeing all information systems, Edwards ensures the seamless delivery of digital learning platforms, administrative tools, and research support systems. This role is critical in maintaining the accessibility of education through technology, supporting both domestic and international students across Australia and Indonesia. Peter Edwards drives the strategic implementation of IT solutions that enhance student support and facilitate world-class research initiatives. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include safeguarding data integrity, optimizing network performance, and exploring innovative technologies to advance CQUniversity's educational mission. By managing the technological backbone, Edwards enables robust partnerships with industries and communities, ensuring learning opportunities are enhanced through cutting-edge digital resources.