Australia’s national science and technology agency, CSIRO, announced it has promoted former Executive Director Future Industries, Kirsten Rose, to the newly created position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer.

Commencing from 20 May, Rose will be responsible for spearheading the strategy implementation of the agency, as it looks to grow and streamline Australia’s innovation hub and sustainability targets to strengthen the impact of science in the community.

“Kirsten is an extremely well-respected leader and advocate for the power of innovation and technology to create prosperity for Australia,” CSIRO Chief Executive, Dr Doug Hilton, said.

“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.”

In her former role since 2020, Rose led a wide-ranging suite of research teams across 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.

Prior to her time at CSIRO, Rose was Head of Innovation, Sustainable Operations at BHP, and has notched over 25 years under her belt in several senior technical and innovation roles in the US, the UK and Australia.

“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,” Rose said.