UNSW Sydney Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

UNSW Sydney has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and academic governance.

Driven by a commitment to societal impact, UNSW Sydney focuses on knowledge sharing and discovery, aiming to improve lives globally through its educational and research endeavors.

Leadership Roles at UNSW Sydney

  • Chief Executive Officer - Shelley Valentine
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Sharif Ahmmad
  • Conjoint Professional and Ofc, Centre Excellence International Finance and Regulation Cifr Chief Executive Officer - Ros Grady
  • Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer - Helena Mangs
  • Inter-Residence Council President - Irina Wong
  • Deputy President, Academic Board - Shirley Scott
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Tanya Freeman
  • Director, Flight Operations and Deputy Head, School, Flying - Malcolm Good
  • Shelley Valentine - Chief Executive Officer

    Shelley Valentine, the Chief Executive Officer at UNSW Sydney, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. This leadership role involves steering the university's mission of societal impact through knowledge sharing and discovery. Valentine's focus centers on enhancing UNSW Sydney's global standing and ensuring its academic programs align with future industry demands. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities encompass fostering innovation across all departments and driving initiatives that translate research into tangible societal benefits. This position requires a deep understanding of the higher education landscape and a commitment to advancing the university's core values. Shelley Valentine ensures that all institutional activities contribute to the university's objective of serving society.

    Sharif Ahmmad - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Sharif Ahmmad, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at UNSW Sydney, established the foundational principles that guide the university's mission. Ahmmad's current leadership involves overseeing the long-term strategic direction and ensuring the institution's continued commitment to societal impact. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer's role emphasizes the integration of knowledge sharing and new discovery into all facets of university operations. This involves cultivating an environment where groundbreaking research can flourish and where educational offerings prepare students for global challenges. Sharif Ahmmad's influence extends to shaping the university's culture and its approach to academic excellence. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures that UNSW Sydney remains at the forefront of innovation and continues its legacy of contributing to global progress.

    Ros Grady - Conjoint Professional and Ofc, Centre Excellence International Finance and Regulation Cifr Chief Executive Officer

    Ros Grady, the Conjoint Professional and Ofc, Centre Excellence International Finance and Regulation Cifr Chief Executive Officer at UNSW Sydney, leads critical initiatives within international finance and regulation. Grady's executive function involves overseeing the Centre of Excellence, driving advancements in financial regulation and fostering international collaboration. This role demands expertise in complex financial landscapes and a strategic approach to regulatory frameworks. The Conjoint Professional and Ofc, Centre Excellence International Finance and Regulation Cifr Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include developing cutting-edge research and educational programs that address global financial challenges. Ros Grady ensures that UNSW Sydney's contributions in this specialized field are impactful and relevant. The Chief Executive Officer's leadership supports the university's broader mission of knowledge sharing and societal contribution through specialized academic pursuits.

    Helena Mangs - Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer

    Helena Mangs, the Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer at UNSW Sydney, manages the day-to-day operational functions and supports the strategic objectives of the university. Mangs' executive responsibilities encompass overseeing administrative processes, resource allocation, and ensuring operational efficiency across various departments. This role is critical in translating the university's mission into effective operational practices. The Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer's focus includes optimizing workflows, managing facilities, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. Helena Mangs contributes significantly to the smooth functioning of UNSW Sydney, enabling its commitment to societal impact through knowledge sharing and discovery. The Chief Operating Officer's leadership ensures that the university's resources are utilized effectively to support its academic and research endeavors.

    Irina Wong - Inter-Residence Council President

    Irina Wong, the Inter-Residence Council President at UNSW Sydney, represents student interests and advocates for enhanced living experiences within university residences. Wong's leadership focuses on fostering a vibrant and supportive community for students residing on campus. This role involves collaborating with university administration to address student concerns and implement improvements to residential services. The Inter-Residence Council President's responsibilities include organizing student events, promoting resident engagement, and ensuring effective communication between students and management. Irina Wong plays a key part in shaping the student experience at UNSW Sydney, contributing to a positive environment conducive to learning and personal growth. The Council President's advocacy supports the university's broader mission of student development.

    Shirley Scott - Deputy President, Academic Board

    Shirley Scott, the Deputy President, Academic Board at UNSW Sydney, supports the governance and academic integrity of the university. Scott's executive function involves contributing to the strategic oversight of academic policies and standards, ensuring alignment with the institution's mission of knowledge sharing and discovery. This critical role requires a deep understanding of academic frameworks and a commitment to upholding educational excellence. The Deputy President, Academic Board's responsibilities include assisting the President in managing board proceedings and advising on academic matters. Shirley Scott's leadership ensures that UNSW Sydney maintains high academic standards and fosters an environment of rigorous intellectual inquiry. The Deputy President's contribution is vital to the university's long-term academic success and societal impact.

    Tanya Freeman - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Tanya Freeman, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at UNSW Sydney, supports the strategic direction and implementation of information technology across the university. Freeman's operational focus involves enhancing digital infrastructure and ensuring the seamless integration of technology to support academic and research activities. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of IT systems and a commitment to driving technological innovation. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include overseeing IT operations, managing cybersecurity measures, and supporting the development of digital learning environments. Tanya Freeman plays a crucial part in enabling UNSW Sydney's mission of knowledge sharing and discovery through robust technological solutions. The Deputy Chief Information Officer ensures that the university's IT resources are optimized for efficiency and future growth.

    Malcolm Good - Director, Flight Operations and Deputy Head, School, Flying

    Malcolm Good, the Director, Flight Operations and Deputy Head, School, Flying at UNSW Sydney, leads the practical application and academic oversight of flight operations. Good's executive function involves ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency in all flight activities conducted by the university. This leadership role is integral to the School of Flying's educational mission, providing students with real-world experience. The Director, Flight Operations and Deputy Head, School, Flying's responsibilities include managing aviation resources, developing training programs, and maintaining regulatory compliance. Malcolm Good's expertise directly supports UNSW Sydney's commitment to specialized knowledge sharing and discovery within the aviation sector. The Deputy Head's leadership ensures the school's operational excellence and academic rigor.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding UNSW Sydney Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads UNSW Sydney?
    UNSW Sydney is led by Shelley Valentine (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sharif Ahmmad (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Ros Grady (Conjoint Professional and Ofc, Centre Excellence International Finance and Regulation Cifr Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of UNSW Sydney’s executive team?
    The executive team of UNSW Sydney includes leaders such as Shelley Valentine (Chief Executive Officer), Sharif Ahmmad (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Ros Grady (Conjoint Professional and Ofc, Centre Excellence International Finance and Regulation Cifr Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does UNSW Sydney have?
    UNSW Sydney has 8 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, Conjoint Professional and Ofc, Centre Excellence International Finance and Regulation Cifr Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer, Inter-Residence Council President.