Curtin University Executive and Leadership Team

David Menarry, the Chief Operating Officer at Curtin University, directs the administrative infrastructure and physical campus operations required to support a premier public research institution. Managing large-scale capital projects and facility maintenance, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the university environment remains conducive to high-level academic inquiry. David Menarry oversees the integration of digital systems with physical campus assets to optimize resource allocation across the Bentley site and broader regional locations. By aligning operational budgets with long-term institutional goals, the Chief Operating Officer maintains fiscal health while facilitating growth in research capacity. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with academic departments to streamline service delivery and enhance the overall student experience. Through rigorous oversight of procurement and infrastructure, Menarry secures the operational stability necessary for the university to maintain a competitive edge in the Australian higher education sector.

Zehrah Al Asaadi, the Co-Founder & President at Curtin University, defines the overarching vision and strategic direction for the institution's research and educational mission. Leading the executive team, the Co-Founder & President drives the university's commitment to innovation and community impact on a global scale. Zehrah Al Asaadi architects partnerships with industry leaders and government bodies to secure funding and support for large-scale research initiatives. By setting the tone for academic excellence, the Co-Founder & President ensures that the university remains at the forefront of technological and social advancement. This leadership role involves representing the institution in international forums and fostering a culture of inquiry that spans all faculties. Through the strategic oversight of institutional growth, Al Asaadi secures the university's position as a premier destination for students and researchers, ensuring that the mission of the institution continues to evolve in response to global challenges.

Bridget Halbert, the Chief of Staff at Curtin University, coordinates executive communications and strategic planning initiatives to ensure alignment across all university departments. Facilitating the flow of information between the leadership team and the broader academic community, the Chief of Staff manages complex projects that define the institutional trajectory. Bridget Halbert architects internal governance frameworks that support efficient decision-making processes at the highest levels of the organization. By monitoring progress on key performance indicators, the Chief of Staff enables the executive team to respond rapidly to shifts in the global research landscape. This role requires deep integration with various administrative units to harmonize policy implementation and institutional messaging. Through the management of high-priority initiatives, Halbert drives organizational cohesion and ensures that the strategic vision of the university remains the primary focus of all administrative activities.

Melisa Kaharevic, the Chief People Officer at Curtin University, designs and executes comprehensive human capital strategies to attract and retain world-class academic and professional talent. Overseeing organizational culture and workforce development, the Chief People Officer fosters an inclusive environment that promotes research excellence and pedagogical innovation. Melisa Kaharevic implements robust talent management systems that align individual performance with the broader mission of the university. By championing professional development programs, the Chief People Officer ensures that the workforce remains equipped to handle the evolving demands of the higher education industry. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor relations and promoting equity across all campus departments. Through the strategic management of human resources, Kaharevic strengthens the institutional capacity to deliver high-impact research and education, ultimately securing the long-term success of the university as a leading employer in Western Australia.

Beth Cubitt, the Chief Legal Officer at Curtin University, manages the legal framework and regulatory compliance requirements essential for a major public research institution. Providing expert counsel on intellectual property, research contracts, and institutional governance, the Chief Legal Officer protects the university from liability while facilitating collaborative partnerships. Beth Cubitt architects risk management strategies that allow the institution to pursue ambitious research goals within the bounds of Australian law. By overseeing the legal aspects of international academic agreements, the Chief Legal Officer supports the expansion of the university's global footprint. This role involves constant interaction with the Board and executive leadership to ensure that all institutional actions align with statutory obligations and ethical standards. Through the diligent application of legal expertise, Cubitt safeguards the reputation and assets of the university, ensuring that all academic and administrative operations proceed without disruption.