Rowan Brookes

Background

About Rowan Brookes

I am a higher education leader specialising in building organisational capability, innovation and sustainable leadership in universities.Across more than 20 years working in and with universities, I have led major initiatives in curriculum renewal, digital education and professional learning. My work focuses on designing education systems and leadership capability that enable universities to respond to rapid technological, societal and workforce change.I have held senior academic leadership roles responsible for professional education strategy and learning and teaching transformation. In my current role leading Bendelta’s higher education portfolio. Through this work I bring sector-wide insight into the challenges and opportunities facing universities and support institutions to develop leadership capability and organisational readiness for the future of higher education.Alongside my sector leadership work, I practice as an executive coach supporting senior and executive leaders navigating complex transitions, institutional change and expanding leadership scope. My coaching is grounded in adult development theory and adaptive leadership, with a strong emphasis on reflective capacity, systems thinking and sustainable performance in role.My work spans:Leadership capability and organisational cultureExecutive coaching and senior leader developmentAcademic governance and education strategyIndustry partnerships and work-integrated learningMy qualifications include a PhD in Ecology, a Bachelor of Science (Hons) and a Bachelor of Arts, alongside executive education at Harvard Kennedy School and Stanford University. I am also a Vincent Fairfax Fellow with Cranlana.My leadership contributions have been recognised through the Telstra Business Women’s Award (Public Sector & Academia) and the Chief Executive Women STEM Leadership Award. I also co-founded STEM Side-by-Side with veski and the UK Consulate to advance women in STEM leadership globally.Outside work, I am an ultra-endurance athlete and represented Australia at the World Adventure Racing Championships.