Griffith University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Griffith University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, financial management, staff services, and institutional leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, Griffith University delivers comprehensive degree programs while fostering a transformative learning environment for students across diverse global disciplines.

Leadership Roles at Griffith University

  • Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer - Monica Elekana
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Ben Spragge
  • Chief Operating Officer - Megan Leafe
  • GASS President - Tyler Adamson
  • President & Founder - Charlie Tran
  • Founder & President - Patricia Cochrane
  • Founder & President - Austin Yang
  • President - Maryam Rezayi
  • President - Dwiti Desai
  • Head Deputy Chief People Officer, Staff Services - Ken Greedy
  • Monica Elekana - Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer

    Monica Elekana, the Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer at Griffith University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the institution. Overseeing the allocation of capital across academic departments, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources support the university's core mission of research and teaching. This leadership role involves rigorous oversight of institutional spending and the development of long-term financial strategies to maintain economic stability. By monitoring revenue streams and expenditure patterns, Monica Elekana directly impacts the university's capacity for innovation and expansion. Elekana collaborates with senior leadership to align financial goals with the strategic objectives of the university. Through the application of prudent fiscal management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary funding for future academic initiatives. Elekana maintains a focus on transparency and accountability to ensure the continued success of the institution.

    Ben Spragge - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Ben Spragge, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Griffith University, directs the immediate financial reporting and audit compliance functions for the institution. Overseeing the stabilization of fiscal policies, the Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures that all budgetary activities adhere to regulatory standards while supporting ongoing academic programs. This leadership role involves managing cash flow and providing critical financial analysis to the board to facilitate informed decision-making. By optimizing current financial workflows, Ben Spragge directly impacts the university's operational agility during this transition period. Spragge coordinates with department heads to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising the quality of education provided. Through the implementation of robust financial controls, the Interim Chief Financial Officer maintains the integrity of the university's economic foundation. Spragge focuses on delivering consistent financial performance to support the institution's commitment to excellence in research and student development.

    Megan Leafe - Chief Operating Officer

    Megan Leafe, the Chief Operating Officer at Griffith University, directs all internal administrative functions and campus infrastructure projects. Overseeing the daily operational efficiency of the institution, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that academic facilities meet the rigorous standards required for high-level research and student engagement. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-departmental workflows to optimize resource allocation across the Australian campus network. By streamlining administrative processes, Megan Leafe directly impacts the university's ability to deliver quality education. Leafe manages complex logistical challenges while maintaining alignment with the broader institutional mission. Through the implementation of scalable operational frameworks, the Chief Operating Officer supports the long-term sustainability of the university's physical and digital assets. Leafe maintains a focus on operational excellence to drive institutional growth and enhance the overall student experience within the competitive higher education landscape.

    Tyler Adamson - GASS President

    Tyler Adamson, the GASS President at Griffith University, leads the student advocacy and representative body to enhance the campus community experience. Overseeing the development of student-focused initiatives, the GASS President ensures that the needs of the student population remain central to institutional policy discussions. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between the student body and university administration to drive positive change. By championing student interests, Tyler Adamson directly impacts the inclusivity and vibrancy of the university environment. Adamson coordinates with various student organizations to promote academic and social engagement across all campuses. Through the execution of strategic advocacy programs, the GASS President fosters a supportive atmosphere that encourages student success and personal growth. Adamson maintains a focus on building a cohesive community that reflects the values of the university while addressing the evolving requirements of the diverse student demographic.

    Charlie Tran - President & Founder

    Charlie Tran, the President & Founder at Griffith University, architects the long-term vision and strategic direction for the institution. Overseeing the expansion of academic programs and research partnerships, the President & Founder ensures that the university maintains its position as a leader in higher education. This leadership role involves engaging with external stakeholders and industry partners to drive institutional growth and global influence. By defining the core values and mission of the university, Charlie Tran directly impacts the trajectory of the institution's development. Tran coordinates with the executive team to implement innovative educational models that address contemporary societal challenges. Through the establishment of a clear strategic roadmap, the President & Founder secures the university's future as a hub for knowledge and discovery. Tran maintains a focus on fostering an environment of academic freedom and excellence that empowers students and faculty alike.

    Patricia Cochrane - Founder & President

    Patricia Cochrane, the Founder & President at Griffith University, directs the institutional commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. Overseeing the development of outreach programs, the Founder & President ensures that the university's research and educational initiatives provide tangible benefits to the broader society. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with community leaders and government bodies to enhance the university's regional impact. By championing social equity and public service, Patricia Cochrane directly impacts the university's reputation as a community-focused institution. Cochrane coordinates with faculty to integrate service-learning opportunities into the curriculum, enriching the student experience. Through the execution of strategic community partnerships, the Founder & President strengthens the university's role as a catalyst for positive change. Cochrane maintains a focus on ensuring that the institution remains responsive to the needs of the public while upholding the highest standards of academic integrity.

    Austin Yang - Founder & President

    Austin Yang, the Founder & President at Griffith University, architects the technological integration and digital transformation strategy for the institution. Overseeing the modernization of learning platforms and research infrastructure, the Founder & President ensures that the university leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance educational outcomes. This leadership role involves managing the digital roadmap and ensuring that technological investments align with the university's long-term academic goals. By driving innovation in digital pedagogy, Austin Yang directly impacts the accessibility and quality of the university's programs. Yang coordinates with IT and academic departments to implement scalable solutions that support a global student body. Through the execution of a comprehensive digital strategy, the Founder & President positions the university at the forefront of educational technology. Yang maintains a focus on creating a seamless digital environment that fosters collaboration and discovery across all disciplines.

    Maryam Rezayi - President

    Maryam Rezayi, the President at Griffith University, directs the global research agenda and international collaboration efforts for the institution. Overseeing the expansion of international partnerships, the President ensures that the university's research output gains global recognition and addresses cross-border challenges. This leadership role involves fostering relationships with international academic institutions and research organizations to drive collaborative innovation. By promoting a global perspective in research and education, Maryam Rezayi directly impacts the university's standing in the international academic community. Rezayi coordinates with faculty to secure international grants and facilitate cross-cultural research initiatives. Through the execution of a robust internationalization strategy, the President enhances the university's global footprint and influence. Rezayi maintains a focus on building a diverse and interconnected research environment that attracts top-tier talent from around the world to contribute to the university's mission.

    Dwiti Desai - President

    Dwiti Desai, the President at Griffith University, directs the strategic focus on student success and academic quality assurance. Overseeing the implementation of curriculum standards and student support services, the President ensures that the university provides a high-quality educational experience that prepares graduates for professional success. This leadership role involves monitoring academic performance metrics and driving continuous improvement in teaching methodologies. By prioritizing student outcomes, Dwiti Desai directly impacts the university's graduation rates and alumni success stories. Desai coordinates with academic deans to align program offerings with industry demands and emerging career trends. Through the execution of comprehensive quality assurance frameworks, the President maintains the university's reputation for academic excellence. Desai focuses on creating a supportive and rigorous learning environment that empowers students to achieve their full potential while contributing to the university's overall mission of knowledge dissemination.

    Ken Greedy - Head Deputy Chief People Officer, Staff Services

    Ken Greedy, the Head Deputy Chief People Officer, Staff Services at Griffith University, directs human resources strategy and staff development programs. Overseeing the recruitment and retention of academic and professional talent, the Head Deputy Chief People Officer, Staff Services ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the university's mission of educational excellence. This leadership role involves managing employee relations and fostering a culture of professional growth across the institution. By optimizing talent management processes, Ken Greedy directly impacts the university's ability to attract world-class researchers and educators. Greedy coordinates with leadership to implement policies that promote workplace equity and staff well-being. Through the development of comprehensive staff services, the Head Deputy Chief People Officer, Staff Services supports the operational success of the university. Greedy maintains a focus on building a high-performing team that contributes to the overall reputation and impact of the institution.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Griffith University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Griffith University?
    Griffith University is led by Monica Elekana (Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Ben Spragge (Interim Chief Financial Officer) and Megan Leafe (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Griffith University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Griffith University includes leaders such as Monica Elekana (Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer), Ben Spragge (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Megan Leafe (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Griffith University have?
    Griffith University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Griffith University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Griffith University includes roles such as Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, GASS President, President & Founder.