Deakin University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Deakin University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to educational advancement, Deakin University focuses on translating research into impactful solutions, policies, and capabilities to support socially just, inclusive, and equitable societies.

Leadership Roles at Deakin University

  • Founder & President - Ayu Chan
  • President, Deakin Information Security Club - Gia Tran
  • President - Prabhmann Singh
  • President - Paulasta Majumdar
  • President - Ashan De Silva
  • President - Amie Simington
  • President - Michaela Grima
  • President, Deakin Information Security Club - Harvey Tran
  • Chief of Staff - Jocelyn Reid
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Matthew Edge
  • Ayu Chan - Founder & President

    Ayu Chan, the Founder & President at Deakin University, established the foundational vision for the Centre for Research for Educational Impact (REDI). Chan's leadership drives the overarching mission to translate high-quality educational research into impactful solutions, policies, and capabilities that foster socially just, inclusive, and equitable societies. This role involves setting the strategic direction for REDI's four main themes: Diversity and Social Justice in Education, Education Governance and Policy for Sustainable Societies, Learners in a Digital World, and STEM Education for Sustainable Futures. Ayu Chan champions the integration of research findings into practical applications for educational institutions, policymakers, and researchers worldwide. The Founder & President's influence is critical in cultivating a research environment that prioritizes societal impact and educational advancement. Chan's commitment ensures that REDI's initiatives consistently align with the goal of supporting sustainable societies through innovative educational approaches.

    Gia Tran - President, Deakin Information Security Club

    Gia Tran, the President, Deakin Information Security Club at Deakin University, leads initiatives focused on cybersecurity education and awareness among students. Tran's role involves organizing workshops, guest lectures, and practical training sessions to equip members with essential information security skills. This leadership position supports the broader university objective of preparing students for a digital world by fostering expertise in critical technology domains. Gia Tran collaborates with faculty and industry professionals to ensure club activities align with current cybersecurity trends and challenges. The President, Deakin Information Security Club's efforts contribute to developing a community of informed individuals capable of addressing complex digital security issues. Tran's dedication enhances the student experience by providing valuable opportunities for skill development and networking within the information security field, directly supporting Deakin University's commitment to digital literacy and innovation.

    Prabhmann Singh - President

    Prabhmann Singh, the President at Deakin University, spearheads strategic initiatives within a designated faculty or department, focusing on advancing educational research and its practical application. Singh's leadership ensures alignment with the university's core themes, including Diversity and Social Justice in Education and Learners in a Digital World. This role involves fostering collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and educational institutions to translate high-quality research into impactful capabilities. Prabhmann Singh oversees the development and implementation of policies that support socially just and equitable educational practices. The President's strategic direction contributes significantly to enhancing the university's reputation for impactful research and innovation. Singh's efforts are crucial in driving forward the university's mission to support sustainable societies through advanced educational methodologies and policy development, ensuring Deakin University remains a leader in educational impact.

    Paulasta Majumdar - President

    Paulasta Majumdar, the President at Deakin University, directs key operational aspects within a specific academic division, emphasizing the translation of educational research into actionable solutions. Majumdar's leadership focuses on advancing the university's commitment to STEM Education for Sustainable Futures and Education Governance for Sustainable Societies. This role involves cultivating an environment where research directly informs policy and enhances educational capabilities for diverse learners. Paulasta Majumdar collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the effective dissemination of research findings, supporting socially just and inclusive educational practices. The President's strategic oversight is vital for integrating cutting-edge research into curriculum development and institutional strategy. Majumdar's influence strengthens Deakin University's capacity to address contemporary educational challenges and contribute to sustainable societal development through evidence-based approaches.

    Ashan De Silva - President

    Ashan De Silva, the President at Deakin University, leads strategic planning and execution within a key research area, focusing on the impact of digital technologies on education. De Silva's leadership champions the theme of Learners in a Digital World, ensuring research translates into practical capabilities for students and educators. This role involves fostering innovation in educational delivery and policy, supporting the university's mission for inclusive and equitable societies. Ashan De Silva collaborates with educational institutions and policymakers to implement research-backed solutions that enhance learning experiences. The President's focus on digital transformation drives the university's commitment to preparing students for the future workforce. De Silva's strategic vision ensures Deakin University remains at the forefront of educational research, particularly in leveraging technology to create impactful and accessible learning environments that support sustainable futures.

    Amie Simington - President

    Amie Simington, the President at Deakin University, drives initiatives focused on Diversity and Social Justice in Education, a core theme of the Centre for Research for Educational Impact (REDI). Simington's leadership ensures that research translates into tangible solutions and policies promoting inclusivity and equity across educational landscapes. This role involves fostering partnerships with educational institutions and policymakers to implement research-driven strategies that address systemic inequalities. Amie Simington oversees the development of capabilities designed to support diverse learners and educators, reinforcing Deakin University's commitment to socially just societies. The President's strategic focus is on translating academic findings into practical applications that create lasting positive change. Simington's dedication ensures REDI's work actively contributes to building more equitable and accessible educational systems globally.

    Michaela Grima - President

    Michaela Grima, the President at Deakin University, leads efforts in Education Governance and Policy for Sustainable Societies, a critical research theme for REDI. Grima's leadership focuses on translating research into impactful policies that foster long-term societal well-being and educational sustainability. This role involves collaborating with policymakers and educational leaders to integrate evidence-based approaches into governance frameworks. Michaela Grima champions initiatives that promote inclusive and equitable educational systems, ensuring research directly informs policy development. The President's strategic direction is vital for advancing Deakin University's mission to support sustainable societies through robust educational research and policy. Grima's work ensures that the university's research contributes to creating resilient and effective educational structures globally.

    Harvey Tran - President, Deakin Information Security Club

    Harvey Tran, the President, Deakin Information Security Club at Deakin University, collaborates with Gia Tran to advance the club's mission in cybersecurity education. Tran's leadership focuses on developing and executing practical training programs and events that enhance student understanding of digital security principles. This role supports Deakin University's objective of preparing students for challenges within a digital world by fostering specialized technical skills. Harvey Tran works to build strong relationships with industry partners, creating opportunities for internships and career development within the information security sector. The President, Deakin Information Security Club's efforts contribute to a vibrant campus community dedicated to cybersecurity excellence. Tran's commitment ensures club members gain valuable experience and knowledge, reinforcing Deakin University's dedication to digital innovation and security awareness.

    Jocelyn Reid - Chief of Staff

    Jocelyn Reid, the Chief of Staff at Deakin University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across key university functions. Overseeing critical projects, Reid ensures the seamless execution of the university's mission to translate educational research into impactful solutions. This leadership role involves close collaboration with senior leadership to enhance governance and policy development, directly supporting the university's commitment to socially just and equitable societies. Reid's strategic oversight extends to fostering capabilities that advance educational practices, ensuring Deakin University remains at the forefront of research-driven impact. The Chief of Staff drives efficiency and effectiveness in administrative processes, facilitating the integration of diverse research themes into cohesive university-wide strategies. Jocelyn Reid's influence shapes the operational framework that underpins the university's dedication to learners in a digital world and STEM education for sustainable futures.

    Matthew Edge - Chief Marketing Officer

    Matthew Edge, the Chief Marketing Officer at Deakin University, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to amplify the university's research impact and educational offerings. Overseeing all brand communications and market positioning, Edge ensures that Deakin University's commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and equity resonates with target audiences, including educational institutions, policymakers, and researchers. This role involves driving initiatives that highlight the university's four core research themes: Diversity and Social Justice in Education, Education Governance and Policy for Sustainable Societies, Learners in a Digital World, and STEM Education for Sustainable Futures. Matthew Edge leads the development of campaigns that translate high-quality educational research into tangible capabilities and solutions. The Chief Marketing Officer's strategic vision enhances Deakin University's reputation as a leader in educational innovation and policy development, fostering engagement and support for its impactful research endeavors. Edge's leadership ensures consistent messaging across all platforms, reinforcing the university's dedication to advancing educational practices globally.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Deakin University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Deakin University?
    Deakin University is led by Ayu Chan (Founder & President), along with executives such as Gia Tran (President, Deakin Information Security Club) and Prabhmann Singh (President).
    Who is part of Deakin University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Deakin University includes leaders such as Ayu Chan (Founder & President), Gia Tran (President, Deakin Information Security Club), Prabhmann Singh (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Deakin University have?
    Deakin University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Deakin University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Deakin University includes roles such as Founder & President, President, Deakin Information Security Club, President, President, President.