Past leaders

As WAIT directors and Curtin Vice-Chancellors, these esteemed individuals have helped shape the direction of the developing institution.

Curtin has been fortunate to have been led by some very bold and progressive leaders over the course of its history.

In its earlier days as the Western Australian Institute of Technology, the day-to-day running of the organisation was the responsibility of the WAIT Director. Broader strategic direction was provided by the WAIT Council, led by a Chairperson who was generally a high-profile member of the external community.

When WAIT transitioned to Curtin University the title of Director changed to Vice-Chancellor, in line with existing university traditions, and the position of Chair of Council changed to Chancellor.

As part of its 50 Years of Innovation celebrations in 2017, Curtin interviewed a number of its former leaders about the challenges and opportunities they experienced in their leadership roles.