About JCU University Executive

University Executive

Under the guidance of the Vice Chancellor and President, the Executive is JCU’s primary management decision-making body.

It develops and implements strategies, policies and procedures to support the University’s strategic goals and operational requirements.

Professor Simon Biggs

Vice Chancellor and President

Professor Simon Biggs is the Vice Chancellor and President, who ensures clear and effective leadership and management of the University across all operating sites, including campuses in Cairns, Townsville and Singapore.

Ms Vanessa Cannon

Chief of Staff

Ms Vanessa Cannon is the Chief of Staff, who is responsible for JCU’s corporate and strategic governance and assurance frameworks and for coordinating cross portfolio strategic initiatives. In this role, she is also the Critical Incident Coordinator.

Ms Danella Forster

Chief Financial Officer

Ms Danella Forster is the Chief Financial Officer, who advises the Vice Chancellor and the Executive on JCU’s financial operations while providing leadership and general management of the Financial and Business Services unit.

Professor Marcus Lane

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academy

Professor Marcus Lane is the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academy who manages the performance of JCU’s six Colleges, ensuring that academic operational, financial and strategic goals are achieved.

Professor Jenny Sedden

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research

Professor Jenny Seddon is the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research who oversees Research Infrastructure, Research and Innovation Services and the Graduate Research School, along with several research centres and institutes.

Ms Tricia Brand

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Services and Resources

Ms Tricia Brand is the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Services and Resources who manages operational functions including Estate, Work Health and Safety, Human Resources, and Technology Solutions.

Professor Martin Nakata

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Indigenous Education and Strategy

Professor Martin Nakata is the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Indigenous Education and Strategy who oversees JCU's Indigenous Education and Research Centre. He is also a key contributor to JCU's Indigenous strategy and engagement activities.

Professor Carole-Anne Upton

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Singapore

Professor Carole-Anne Upton is the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Singapore who manages JCU's Singapore Campus.