CSIRO appoints new Deputy Chief Executive

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, today announced the appointment of Ms Kirsten Rose to the newly created position of Deputy Chief Executive.

In this role, Ms Rose will help lead the strategic direction of one of the largest research organisations in the world, which uses science and technology to deliver benefit to the Australian community.

She will focus on how CSIRO engages and collaborates with the innovation ecosystem, while driving simplification and sustainability to increase the impact of science.

Since 2020 Ms Rose has been CSIRO’s Executive Director Future Industries, leading a diverse portfolio that includes research in agriculture and food, human and animal health, biosecurity and manufacturing, as well as teams that deliver national scientific infrastructure and science and innovation-based services.

On announcing the appointment, CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Doug Hilton said Ms Rose has an impressive track record working at the nexus of industry, government, and research.

“Kirsten is an extremely well-respected leader and advocate for the power of innovation and technology to create prosperity for Australia.

“She is known as a leader who inspires, empowers, and collaborates. I am excited to see her bring those attributes to the role of Deputy Chief Executive,” he said.

Ms Rose said she was delighted to step into the role and saw it as an opportunity to bring together her passions for purpose-led innovation, people, and partnerships.

“For over 100 years CSIRO has invented life-changing technologies and achieved nation-changing breakthroughs. It will be an absolute privilege to serve as Deputy Chief Executive for this amazing organisation.”

Ms Rose has held senior technical and innovation roles for over 25 years in the US, UK and Australia. Prior to joining CSIRO, she was the Head of Innovation, Sustainable Operations at BHP, where she had global responsibility for bringing together science, technology, and people to drive material improvements in sustainability-related challenges.

A recognised leader in innovation, technology, and gender diversity issues, Ms Rose is an Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering (ATSE) fellow, an active member of Chief Executive Women (CEW), an AmCham governor in Western Australia, and serves in a range of other advisory and non-executive director roles.

She will commence in the role on 20 May 2024.