With more than 28 years of leadership experience spanning universities, health services, and research institutes, Faye brings a unique combination of scientific expertise, strategic leadership, governance, and operational excellence to the Hub. Her career has included senior roles at Swinburne University, Victoria University, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, and Northern Health, where she has led research operations, infrastructure, compliance, and organisational transformation.
As COO, Faye oversees the day-to-day operation of the Hub and works closely with researchers, students, industry partners, government stakeholders, and university leaders to ensure the Hub delivers impactful outcomes for Australian manufacturing.
From Scientist to Research Operations Leader
Faye began her career as a molecular scientist before moving into research leadership and management. This foundation gives her a deep understanding of the challenges researchers face and a passion for creating environments where they can thrive.
Throughout her career, she has supported the establishment of new laboratories, research facilities, governance frameworks, and large-scale collaborative programs.
“Research excellence does not happen by accident. It is enabled by people, partnerships, governance, and a shared commitment to making a difference.”
Driving Collaboration and Impact
At the Digital Manufacturing Hub, Faye works across every aspect of the organisation, including:
- Strategic planning and operations
- Industry and government engagement
- Governance and compliance
- Finance and reporting
- Events and conferences
- Communications and outreach
- Partnership development
- Research support and capability building
She is the first point of contact for organisations looking to connect with the Hub and plays a key role in building lasting relationships between academia and industry and a member of the executive.
Championing Research Operations as a Profession
Beyond the Hub, Faye is a passionate advocate for advancing research operations management as a recognised profession.
She actively mentors emerging research leaders and contributes to national communities of practice, helping shape discussions around capability development, professional identity, and innovation in research operations.
Her work explores how research operations can move beyond administrative support to become a strategic, evidence-based discipline that enables research excellence and impact.
Supporting the Next Generation
One of the most rewarding aspects of Faye’s role is supporting students and early-career researchers.
Whether helping a new PhD student find their feet, connecting researchers with mentors, or creating opportunities for collaboration and professional growth, she is committed to building a welcoming and supportive research community.
“One conversation, one introduction, or one opportunity can change the course of a person’s career. Creating those opportunities is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.”
Fun Fact
Outside of work, Faye enjoys spending time in her garden, walking in nature, and exploring her creative side through painting and pencil drawing. These activities provide a welcome balance to the dynamic world of research, innovation, and stakeholder engagement.
These moments of reflection also inspire broader thinking about the future of research. In her spare time, Faye is developing a capability-based research operations framework that explores how research organisations can strengthen the leadership, culture, systems, and operational capability that underpin successful research. Her work is driven by a belief that while traditional metrics can measure outputs, they do not always capture the capabilities, relationships, and conditions that enable research to thrive and create lasting impact.
What excites you most about the future of digital manufacturing?
“Digital manufacturing is not just about technology; it’s about people, collaboration, and creating a more resilient and competitive future for Australia.”
