Charles Darwin University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Charles Darwin University has 6 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, finance, academic affairs, cybersecurity, and marketing.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Charles Darwin University provides diverse academic pathways and fosters research and innovation to enhance graduate employment outcomes and support student life across its Australian campuses.

Leadership Roles at Charles Darwin University

  • Vice President Corporate and Chief Financial Officer - Rick Davies
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Andrew Woodmansey
  • President, Cdu Cybersecurity - Shiraz Shresta
  • Chief Information Officer - Pat Gould
  • Professor - Jennifer Davis
  • Chief Marketing & Communications Officer - Kimberley Pickens
  • Rick Davies - Vice President Corporate and Chief Financial Officer

    Rick Davies, the Vice President Corporate and Chief Financial Officer at Charles Darwin University, manages the institution's financial health and corporate strategy. Overseeing all financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, Rick Davies ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth across academic and research operations. This executive role involves managing investments, optimizing resource allocation, and securing funding to support the university's mission, including its commitment to scholarships for first-generation students. By driving financial acumen, the Vice President Corporate and Chief Financial Officer directly impacts Charles Darwin University's capacity to offer a wide range of educational programs and maintain its focus on graduate employment outcomes. Rick Davies's leadership ensures the financial stability necessary for innovation and expanded student opportunities.

    Andrew Woodmansey - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Andrew Woodmansey, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Charles Darwin University, supports the strategic execution of operational functions across the institution. This role involves overseeing key administrative departments that facilitate the university's day-to-day activities, ensuring efficiency and alignment with institutional goals. Andrew Woodmansey contributes to the management of campus facilities, resource allocation, and the implementation of operational policies that enhance student life and community engagement. By focusing on operational excellence, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer ensures that the university's infrastructure effectively supports its diverse educational programs and research endeavors. This leadership position is critical in maintaining the smooth functioning of Charles Darwin University's multiple locations, including Darwin, Alice Springs, and Sydney, thereby reinforcing the commitment to graduate employment outcomes.

    Shiraz Shresta - President, Cdu Cybersecurity

    Shiraz Shresta, the President, Cdu Cybersecurity at Charles Darwin University, spearheads the development and implementation of comprehensive cybersecurity strategies. This critical leadership function ensures the protection of sensitive university data, digital assets, and the overall technological infrastructure against evolving cyber threats. Shiraz Shresta oversees the cybersecurity team, driving initiatives to enhance network security, implement robust data privacy measures, and foster a culture of security awareness among students and staff. By safeguarding the university's digital environment, the President, Cdu Cybersecurity directly supports Charles Darwin University's commitment to providing secure and reliable educational programs and flexible study options. This role is paramount in maintaining trust and ensuring the integrity of operations across all campuses.

    Pat Gould - Chief Information Officer

    Pat Gould, the Chief Information Officer at Charles Darwin University, directs the university's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Pat Gould ensures the seamless delivery of technology services that support academic programs, research initiatives, and administrative functions across multiple campuses. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data management systems, and the integration of new technologies to enhance the student and staff experience. By optimizing the university's technological resources, Pat Gould directly contributes to Charles Darwin University's mission of providing flexible study options and strong graduate employment outcomes. The Chief Information Officer's focus remains on driving innovation in educational technology and maintaining robust, secure IT systems essential for modern learning environments.

    Jennifer Davis - Professor

    Jennifer Davis, the Professor at Charles Darwin University, contributes significantly to the academic excellence and research output of the institution. This role involves delivering high-quality instruction across undergraduate and postgraduate programs, fostering critical thinking and scholarly inquiry among students. Jennifer Davis actively engages in research, contributing to the university's reputation for innovation and its focus on graduate employment outcomes. By mentoring students and advancing knowledge in their field, the Professor enhances the educational experience and supports the university's commitment to diverse student life. This academic leadership position is vital in upholding the quality of education and research that Charles Darwin University provides, ensuring its programs remain relevant and impactful in preparing students for future careers.

    Kimberley Pickens - Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

    Kimberley Pickens, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Charles Darwin University, directs the institution's brand strategy and external messaging. This executive role involves developing and executing integrated marketing campaigns to attract domestic and international students, highlighting the university's wide range of educational programs and flexible study options. Kimberley Pickens oversees all communications efforts, ensuring consistent and compelling representation of Charles Darwin University's commitment to research, innovation, and graduate employment outcomes. By enhancing the university's public profile and stakeholder engagement, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer plays a crucial part in fostering community connections and supporting student recruitment. This leadership position is essential for articulating the value proposition of Charles Darwin University across its multiple campuses.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Charles Darwin University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Charles Darwin University?
    Charles Darwin University is led by Rick Davies (Vice President Corporate and Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Andrew Woodmansey (Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and Shiraz Shresta (President, Cdu Cybersecurity).
    Who is part of Charles Darwin University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Charles Darwin University includes leaders such as Rick Davies (Vice President Corporate and Chief Financial Officer), Andrew Woodmansey (Deputy Chief Operating Officer), Shiraz Shresta (President, Cdu Cybersecurity) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Charles Darwin University have?
    Charles Darwin University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Charles Darwin University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Charles Darwin University includes roles such as Vice President Corporate and Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, President, Cdu Cybersecurity, Chief Information Officer, Professor.