Griffith University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Griffith University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, and strategy.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Griffith University provides students with diverse degree and certification pathways, shaping future leaders and innovators within Australia and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Griffith University

  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Ben Spragge
  • Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer - Monica Elekana
  • Chief Operating Officer - Megan Leafe
  • President - Dwiti Desai
  • GASS President - Tyler Adamson
  • President & Founder - Charlie Tran
  • Founder & President - Patricia Cochrane
  • President - Terri Botha
  • Head Deputy Chief People Officer, Staff Services - Ken Greedy
  • Senior Executive Manager - Lexi White
  • Ben Spragge - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Ben Spragge, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Griffith University, manages the institution's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Spragge oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and institutional policies. This critical role involves safeguarding the university's assets and optimizing financial resources to support academic growth and infrastructure development. By providing insightful financial analysis, Ben Spragge guides executive decision-making, enabling Griffith University to navigate economic complexities and invest effectively in its educational mission and future expansion. The financial oversight provided by Spragge is essential for maintaining the university's stability and pursuing its long-term strategic goals.

    Monica Elekana - Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer

    Monica Elekana, the Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer at Griffith University, provides essential administrative and operational support to the Chief Financial Officer. Elekana manages critical executive functions, ensuring the seamless operation of the finance department and facilitating communication between the CFO and other university stakeholders. This role involves coordinating schedules, preparing reports, and overseeing key administrative processes that underpin the financial management of the institution. By maintaining rigorous organizational standards, Monica Elekana directly contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of Griffith University's financial operations, supporting the strategic objectives set forth by the CFO and the broader university leadership.

    Megan Leafe - Chief Operating Officer

    Megan Leafe, the Chief Operating Officer at Griffith University, directs the operational framework supporting the institution's academic and research endeavors. Overseeing administrative functions, Leafe ensures efficient resource allocation and the smooth execution of campus services across all locations. This leadership role involves optimizing internal processes to enhance student and staff experiences, aligning operational strategies with the university's broader mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. By managing facilities, IT infrastructure, and support services, Megan Leafe drives operational excellence, enabling Griffith University to focus on its core educational objectives and maintain its standing as a leading Australian institution.

    Dwiti Desai - President

    Dwiti Desai, the President at Griffith University, spearheads the strategic direction and overall leadership of the institution. Desai is responsible for setting the university's vision, fostering academic innovation, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational programs. This executive position involves cultivating relationships with government bodies, industry partners, and the wider community to advance Griffith University's mission and impact. By championing research excellence and student success, Dwiti Desai drives the university's growth and reputation, positioning it as a leader in higher education within Australia and internationally. The leadership provided by Desai is fundamental to the university's ongoing development and its commitment to societal contribution.

    Tyler Adamson - GASS President

    Tyler Adamson, the GASS President at Griffith University, leads the Griffith Association of Postgraduate Students (GASS), representing the interests of postgraduate students. Adamson advocates for student welfare, academic support, and professional development opportunities for the postgraduate community. This leadership position involves collaborating with university administration to address student concerns and enhance the postgraduate experience. By championing initiatives that benefit postgraduate scholars, Tyler Adamson ensures that their unique needs are met, fostering a supportive and productive academic environment. The dedication of Adamson to the postgraduate cohort strengthens the overall student community at Griffith University.

    Charlie Tran - President & Founder

    Charlie Tran, the President & Founder at Griffith University, established the institution with a vision for transformative education. Tran is responsible for the foundational strategy and ongoing leadership that guides Griffith University's mission. This role involves setting the overarching direction for academic programs, research initiatives, and institutional development. By instilling core values and driving innovation from the outset, Charlie Tran has shaped Griffith University into a respected educational entity. The entrepreneurial spirit and strategic foresight of Tran continue to influence the university's commitment to excellence and its impact on the Australian higher education landscape.

    Patricia Cochrane - Founder & President

    Patricia Cochrane, the Founder & President at Griffith University, played a pivotal role in the establishment and early development of the institution. Cochrane was instrumental in defining the university's initial mission and strategic priorities, laying the groundwork for its future academic achievements. This foundational leadership focused on creating an environment conducive to learning, research, and community engagement. By championing the university's core values, Patricia Cochrane ensured that Griffith University was positioned to offer distinctive educational pathways. The enduring vision of Cochrane continues to resonate within the university's commitment to innovation and student success.

    Terri Botha - President

    Terri Botha, the President at Griffith University, leads the institution with a focus on advancing its academic standing and operational effectiveness. Botha is responsible for guiding strategic initiatives that enhance educational offerings and research capabilities. This executive position involves fostering collaborations and ensuring that Griffith University remains at the forefront of higher education innovation. By overseeing key institutional priorities, Terri Botha drives progress towards the university's long-term goals, contributing to its reputation for excellence. The leadership of Botha is critical in navigating the evolving landscape of education and maintaining Griffith University's commitment to its students and community.

    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 strategies and operations for university staff. Greedy oversees the management of employee relations, talent acquisition, professional development, and HR policy implementation, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment. This pivotal role involves fostering a positive organizational culture and ensuring that staff services align with the university's strategic objectives. By prioritizing staff well-being and professional growth, Ken Greedy contributes significantly to the operational effectiveness and overall success of Griffith University. The expertise of Greedy in human capital management is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent.

    Lexi White - Senior Executive Manager

    Lexi White, the Senior Executive Manager at Griffith University, oversees critical operational and strategic initiatives that support the university's core functions. White manages key projects and departmental operations, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and fostering a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement. This role involves coordinating cross-functional teams and implementing strategic plans to enhance academic delivery and student services. By providing robust management and strategic oversight, Lexi White plays a vital part in the effective functioning of Griffith University, contributing to its reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to student success. The managerial expertise of White is instrumental in achieving the university's objectives.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Griffith University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Griffith University?
    Griffith University is led by Ben Spragge (Interim Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Monica Elekana (Support Executive & To The Officer & 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 Ben Spragge (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Monica Elekana (Support Executive & To The Officer & 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 Interim Chief Financial Officer, Support Executive & To The Officer & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, GASS President.