UNSW Sydney Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

UNSW Sydney has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, institutional advancement, financial oversight, and operational management.

Driven by a commitment to global knowledge sharing, UNSW Sydney fosters new discoveries and societal impact through rigorous academic research and community engagement across the Australian landscape.

Leadership Roles at UNSW Sydney

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kerry Hudson
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Sharif Ahmmad
  • Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd - Lindsay Robinson
  • Chief Financial Officer - Elizabeth Stratford
  • Chief Financial Officer, Unsw Press - Linda Vrckovski
  • Chief Operating Officer - Nikki McAusland
  • Chief Operating Officer, Unsw Analytical Centre - Kellie Moore
  • Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer - Helena Mangs
  • Chief Operating Officer - UNSW RNA Institute - Joshua Peterson
  • Managing Director - Genna Raber
  • Kerry Hudson - Chief Executive Officer

    Kerry Hudson, the Chief Executive Officer at UNSW Sydney, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. Hudson manages high-level academic partnerships and ensures the university maintains its global research standing. By aligning departmental goals with the core mission of societal impact, the Chief Executive Officer drives innovation across all faculties. Hudson oversees the implementation of long-term growth initiatives that expand the reach of educational programs. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with the Board to secure resources for new discovery. Through the optimization of administrative processes, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the institutional framework. Kerry Hudson maintains a focus on excellence in teaching and research, ensuring that the university remains a leader in the higher education sector. By prioritizing sustainable development, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the institution while advancing the reputation of the university on the international stage.

    Sharif Ahmmad - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Sharif Ahmmad, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at UNSW Sydney, architects the foundational principles that guide current research and educational outreach. Ahmmad drives the development of new academic initiatives that address complex global challenges. As the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Ahmmad ensures that the university remains dedicated to the original mission of serving society through knowledge sharing. This role involves cultivating relationships with industry partners to translate research into practical applications. By overseeing the strategic direction of the institution, Ahmmad maintains a focus on long-term sustainability and academic integrity. Sharif Ahmmad monitors the progress of key research projects, ensuring alignment with the broader goals of the university. Through the promotion of interdisciplinary collaboration, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer enhances the capacity for innovation. Ahmmad secures the necessary support to maintain the competitive edge of the university in a rapidly evolving global market.

    Lindsay Robinson - Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd

    Lindsay Robinson, the Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd at UNSW Sydney, directs all philanthropic efforts and fundraising strategies. Robinson manages the relationships with major donors and alumni to secure financial support for critical research and student scholarships. As the Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd, Robinson oversees the growth of the endowment to ensure long-term institutional stability. This role involves coordinating with university leadership to identify funding priorities that align with the core mission of societal impact. By executing comprehensive advancement campaigns, Robinson expands the resource base for new discovery. Lindsay Robinson monitors the performance of the foundation, ensuring transparency and efficiency in all financial activities. Through the cultivation of strategic partnerships, the Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd strengthens the connection between the university and the broader community, ultimately driving the success of academic programs.
    Lindsay Robinson

    Elizabeth Stratford - Chief Financial Officer

    Elizabeth Stratford, the Chief Financial Officer at UNSW Sydney, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the institution. Stratford manages the budgeting process, ensuring that resources are distributed to support core research and educational objectives. As the Chief Financial Officer, Stratford oversees financial reporting and compliance, maintaining the integrity of all fiscal operations. This role involves analyzing economic trends to inform long-term investment decisions that benefit the university. By executing robust financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates risk and ensures the sustainability of academic programs. Elizabeth Stratford collaborates with the Board to present financial performance data and strategic recommendations. Through the management of capital assets, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of research facilities and infrastructure. Stratford ensures that the financial framework of the university remains strong, allowing for continued investment in new discovery and the advancement of knowledge for the benefit of society.

    Linda Vrckovski - Chief Financial Officer, Unsw Press

    Linda Vrckovski, the Chief Financial Officer, Unsw Press at UNSW Sydney, directs the financial operations and publishing economics for the press. Vrckovski manages the budgeting, revenue forecasting, and cost control measures necessary for the successful dissemination of academic work. As the Chief Financial Officer, Unsw Press, Vrckovski oversees the financial health of publishing projects, ensuring that resources are allocated to support the mission of knowledge sharing. This role involves analyzing market trends to inform publishing strategies that maximize the impact of research. By executing sound financial policies, the Chief Financial Officer, Unsw Press ensures the sustainability of the publishing arm. Linda Vrckovski collaborates with editorial leadership to align financial goals with the commitment to new discovery. Through the management of fiscal resources, the Chief Financial Officer, Unsw Press supports the university mission of serving society by making academic knowledge accessible to a wider audience.

    Nikki McAusland - Chief Operating Officer

    Nikki McAusland, the Chief Operating Officer at UNSW Sydney, directs the internal infrastructure and operational systems that support the university mission. McAusland manages the facilities, campus services, and logistical operations to ensure a productive environment for students and faculty. As the Chief Operating Officer, McAusland oversees the implementation of technology and process improvements that enhance institutional efficiency. This role involves coordinating with various departments to streamline service delivery and support the research agenda. By executing operational strategies, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the university remains responsive to the needs of the academic community. Nikki McAusland monitors the performance of campus services, identifying opportunities for innovation and cost-effectiveness. Through the management of large-scale operational projects, the Chief Operating Officer strengthens the foundation of the institution. McAusland ensures that all operational activities are aligned with the commitment to knowledge sharing and the pursuit of new discovery.

    Kellie Moore - Chief Operating Officer, Unsw Analytical Centre

    Kellie Moore, the Chief Operating Officer, Unsw Analytical Centre at UNSW Sydney, directs the technical operations and analytical capabilities of the center. Moore manages the specialized equipment and laboratory resources required for high-level research. As the Chief Operating Officer, Unsw Analytical Centre, Moore oversees the integration of advanced analytical tools into the research workflow. This role involves coordinating with academic staff to ensure that the center provides the necessary support for complex scientific investigations. By executing operational protocols, the Chief Operating Officer, Unsw Analytical Centre maintains the highest standards of data accuracy and research quality. Kellie Moore monitors the utilization of analytical resources, ensuring that the center remains a hub for innovation and discovery. Through the management of technical teams, the Chief Operating Officer, Unsw Analytical Centre fosters a collaborative environment that advances the university mission of knowledge sharing and societal impact.
    Kellie Moore

    Helena Mangs - Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer

    Helena Mangs, the Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer at UNSW Sydney, directs the administrative and operational functions of the department. Mangs manages the day-to-day activities that support the research and educational goals of the unit. As the Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer, Mangs oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives that improve departmental performance. This role involves coordinating with the Director to ensure that all operations are aligned with the broader university mission. By executing efficient management practices, the Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer enhances the productivity of the team. Helena Mangs monitors the progress of key projects, ensuring that deadlines are met and resources are used effectively. Through the leadership of administrative staff, the Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer fosters a culture of excellence. Mangs ensures that the department remains focused on the commitment to knowledge sharing and the advancement of new discovery.

    Joshua Peterson - Chief Operating Officer - UNSW RNA Institute

    Joshua Peterson, the Chief Operating Officer - UNSW RNA Institute at UNSW Sydney, directs the operational framework for the institute. Peterson manages the laboratory infrastructure, research logistics, and compliance requirements essential for RNA-based scientific advancement. As the Chief Operating Officer - UNSW RNA Institute, Peterson oversees the coordination of interdisciplinary research teams to ensure the efficient execution of complex projects. This role involves managing the resources and partnerships necessary to translate research into medical breakthroughs. By executing operational strategies, the Chief Operating Officer - UNSW RNA Institute supports the rapid development of new therapies. Joshua Peterson monitors the performance of the institute, ensuring that all activities align with the university mission of societal impact. Through the management of specialized facilities, the Chief Operating Officer - UNSW RNA Institute fosters an environment of innovation, ultimately contributing to the global reputation of the university in the field of biotechnology.
    Joshua Peterson

    Genna Raber - Managing Director

    Genna Raber, the Managing Director at UNSW Sydney, oversees the daily administrative operations and ensures the effective execution of institutional policies. Raber directs the management of key departments to maintain high standards of operational efficiency. As the Managing Director, Raber coordinates with other executive leaders to implement strategic plans that support the university mission. This role involves managing complex projects that span multiple faculties, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support research and teaching. By optimizing internal workflows, the Managing Director enhances the overall productivity of the institution. Genna Raber monitors performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and growth. Through the leadership of administrative teams, the Managing Director fosters a culture of excellence and accountability. Raber ensures that all operational activities remain aligned with the broader goals of the university, ultimately supporting the commitment to knowledge sharing and societal impact across the region.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding UNSW Sydney Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads UNSW Sydney?
    UNSW Sydney is led by Kerry Hudson (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sharif Ahmmad (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Lindsay Robinson (Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd).
    Who is part of UNSW Sydney’s executive team?
    The executive team of UNSW Sydney includes leaders such as Kerry Hudson (Chief Executive Officer), Sharif Ahmmad (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Lindsay Robinson (Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does UNSW Sydney have?
    UNSW Sydney has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in UNSW Sydney’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of UNSW Sydney includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Advancement Officer and Chief Executive Officer of UNSW Foundation Ltd, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Unsw Press.