James Cook University Australia Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

James Cook University Australia has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, technology, finance, and academic governance.

Committed to excellence in research and education, James Cook University Australia fosters innovation across diverse disciplines while driving significant social and economic impact throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Leadership Roles at James Cook University Australia

  • Fractional Chief AI Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer - Samantha Horseman
  • Founder In Residence. Fractional Chief Financial Officer - Margaret Milutinovic
  • Vice-Chancellor and President - Sandra Harding
  • President - Volunteered Position - Joshua Lesicar
  • President - Ted Dews
  • Chief of Staff - Vanessa Cannon
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Jamie Leonard
  • Chief Information Officer - Suneetha Bodduluri
  • Committees Officer. Secretariat and Records, Chief of Staff Office - Helen Jackson
  • Chief People Officer, Fractional - Elizabeth Jamieson
  • Samantha Horseman - Fractional Chief AI Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer

    Samantha Horseman, the Fractional Chief AI Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer at James Cook University Australia, directs the integration of advanced artificial intelligence across academic and administrative systems. Horseman architects scalable technological frameworks that support the university's mission in bio-medical sciences and dentistry. By aligning digital infrastructure with long-term institutional goals, the Chief Technology Officer ensures robust data security and operational efficiency. Samantha Horseman also oversees the deployment of machine learning tools to enhance student learning outcomes and research capabilities. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with faculty to modernize pedagogical delivery methods. Through the implementation of cutting-edge software solutions, the Chief Executive Officer drives digital transformation across all campuses. Ultimately, Horseman secures the technological future of the institution by prioritizing innovation and sustainable growth in a competitive global education market.

    Margaret Milutinovic - Founder In Residence. Fractional Chief Financial Officer

    Margaret Milutinovic, the Founder In Residence. Fractional Chief Financial Officer at James Cook University Australia, manages the financial health and long-term fiscal planning of the institution. Milutinovic directs budget allocation processes to support diverse programs in social work and bio-medical sciences. By overseeing financial reporting and resource management, the Fractional Chief Financial Officer ensures the university maintains fiscal sustainability while pursuing academic excellence. Margaret Milutinovic also evaluates investment opportunities that align with the university's mission and growth objectives. This leadership role involves providing critical financial insights to the board and executive team to guide strategic decision-making. Through rigorous financial oversight, Milutinovic drives efficiency and accountability across all departments. Ultimately, the Fractional Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to fund research initiatives and infrastructure improvements, ensuring the university continues to thrive as a leading educational institution.

    Sandra Harding - Vice-Chancellor and President

    Sandra Harding, the Vice-Chancellor and President at James Cook University Australia, provides overall leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Harding directs the university's academic mission, ensuring excellence in teaching and research across all disciplines including dentistry and psychological science. By fostering partnerships with industry and government, the Vice-Chancellor and President expands the university's influence and research impact. Sandra Harding also oversees the implementation of long-term growth strategies that enhance the institution's reputation on a global scale. This leadership role involves engaging with the board and faculty to drive innovation and maintain high academic standards. Through visionary leadership, Harding ensures that the university remains a hub for intellectual development and community engagement. Ultimately, the Vice-Chancellor and President secures the institution's future by championing a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

    Joshua Lesicar - President - Volunteered Position

    Joshua Lesicar, the President - Volunteered Position at James Cook University Australia, provides high-level guidance and community representation for the institution. Lesicar directs volunteer-led initiatives that support student welfare and campus engagement programs. By advocating for the university's mission in arts and social work, the President - Volunteered Position strengthens ties between the institution and the broader community. Joshua Lesicar also collaborates with university leadership to promote philanthropic efforts and community-based research projects. This role involves representing the university at public events and fostering a positive image among stakeholders. Through dedicated service, Lesicar drives community involvement and supports the university's commitment to social responsibility. Ultimately, the President - Volunteered Position contributes to the institution's vibrant culture and helps ensure that the university remains deeply connected to the needs and aspirations of the regional population.

    Ted Dews - President

    Ted Dews, the President at James Cook University Australia, oversees the institutional governance and strategic oversight of the university's operations. Dews directs the implementation of policies that support academic excellence and research innovation in fields like dentistry and arts. By working closely with the board and executive leadership, the President ensures that the university's resources are effectively utilized to achieve long-term objectives. Ted Dews also manages external relations and institutional partnerships that enhance the university's standing in the education sector. This role involves providing guidance on major projects and ensuring that the university remains responsive to the evolving needs of students and the community. Through steady leadership, Dews drives the institution's growth and maintains its commitment to high-quality education. Ultimately, the President secures the university's legacy by fostering an environment of academic rigor and community impact.

    Vanessa Cannon - Chief of Staff

    Vanessa Cannon, the Chief of Staff at James Cook University Australia, manages the strategic priorities and daily operations of the executive office. Cannon coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to ensure alignment with the university's core mission in arts and social work. By facilitating communication between the leadership team and the broader academic community, the Chief of Staff optimizes organizational workflows. Vanessa Cannon also monitors the execution of institutional policies, ensuring compliance and operational excellence across all regional campuses. This role involves managing high-level projects that support the university's growth and reputation. Through meticulous planning and resource allocation, Cannon drives efficiency in administrative processes. The Chief of Staff maintains a focus on long-term stability, supporting the university's commitment to providing high-quality education and research opportunities for students across diverse fields of study.

    Jamie Leonard - Chief Marketing Officer

    Jamie Leonard, the Chief Marketing Officer at James Cook University Australia, directs all branding and student recruitment strategies to expand the institution's market presence. Leonard architects comprehensive campaigns that highlight the university's strengths in psychological science and bio-medical research. By analyzing market trends and student demographics, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the university remains a top choice for prospective undergraduates and postgraduates. Jamie Leonard also oversees digital engagement and public relations efforts to strengthen the institutional brand globally. This leadership role involves close coordination with academic departments to showcase unique degree programs and research achievements. Through data-driven marketing initiatives, Leonard drives enrollment growth and enhances the university's visibility. Ultimately, the Chief Marketing Officer secures the institution's competitive position by effectively communicating the value of a degree from this premier educational provider.

    Suneetha Bodduluri - Chief Information Officer

    Suneetha Bodduluri, the Chief Information Officer at James Cook University Australia, oversees the entire information technology ecosystem supporting academic and research activities. Bodduluri directs the maintenance of secure network infrastructure and cloud-based learning platforms essential for dentistry and arts programs. By implementing robust cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive institutional data and research findings. Suneetha Bodduluri also manages the deployment of hardware and software resources across all campuses to ensure seamless access for students and faculty. This role involves collaborating with other C-suite leaders to align IT investments with the university's strategic objectives. Through the optimization of digital services, Bodduluri drives operational efficiency and supports the institution's commitment to technological advancement. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer ensures that the university maintains a reliable and innovative digital environment for all stakeholders.

    Helen Jackson - Committees Officer. Secretariat and Records, Chief of Staff Office

    Helen Jackson, the Committees Officer. Secretariat and Records, Chief of Staff Office at James Cook University Australia, manages the governance and administrative record-keeping processes. Jackson directs the coordination of committee meetings and ensures that all institutional policies adhere to regulatory standards. By maintaining accurate records and facilitating communication between governing bodies, the Committees Officer supports the university's commitment to transparency and accountability. Helen Jackson also oversees the documentation of strategic decisions that impact academic programs and university operations. This role involves working closely with the Chief of Staff to ensure that governance structures remain effective and compliant. Through meticulous attention to detail, Jackson drives organizational integrity and supports the smooth functioning of the university's leadership. Ultimately, the Committees Officer ensures that all administrative and governance activities align with the institution's mission and long-term goals.

    Elizabeth Jamieson - Chief People Officer, Fractional

    Elizabeth Jamieson, the Chief People Officer, Fractional at James Cook University Australia, directs human resources strategy and talent management initiatives. Jamieson architects programs that support faculty development and staff retention across all campuses. By overseeing recruitment, training, and performance management, the Chief People Officer, Fractional ensures that the university attracts and retains top-tier academic and administrative talent. Elizabeth Jamieson also manages workplace culture initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the institution. This leadership role involves collaborating with department heads to align workforce capabilities with the university's strategic goals in bio-medical sciences and other fields. Through effective people management, Jamieson drives organizational health and employee engagement. Ultimately, the Chief People Officer, Fractional secures the human capital necessary for the university to maintain its status as a premier educational and research institution.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding James Cook University Australia Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads James Cook University Australia?
    James Cook University Australia is led by Samantha Horseman (Fractional Chief AI Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer), along with executives such as Margaret Milutinovic (Founder In Residence. Fractional Chief Financial Officer) and Sandra Harding (Vice-Chancellor and President).
    Who is part of James Cook University Australia’s executive team?
    The executive team of James Cook University Australia includes leaders such as Samantha Horseman (Fractional Chief AI Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer), Margaret Milutinovic (Founder In Residence. Fractional Chief Financial Officer), Sandra Harding (Vice-Chancellor and President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does James Cook University Australia have?
    James Cook University Australia has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in James Cook University Australia’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of James Cook University Australia includes roles such as Fractional Chief AI Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Founder In Residence. Fractional Chief Financial Officer, Vice-Chancellor and President, President - Volunteered Position, President.