CDU appoints new leader in Alice Springs

A long-term Territorian with strong links to industry, government and the business sector has been appointed to a newly created senior leadership role with Charles Darwin University in Alice Springs.

Jennes “Jay” Walker, whose family connections with the Territory’s pastoral and tourism industries date back more than 30 years, began as Director of Regional Engagement and Development this week.

“I’m delighted to be joining a dynamic and ambitious institution with a focus on preparing students to prosper in a constantly changing world,” Mr Walker said.

“I have a passion for ensuring that Territorians equip themselves with new world knowledge, transferable skills and the confidence to embrace existing and future opportunities.”

Mr Walker said he would be responsible for building relationships with industry, Indigenous communities and local businesses in regional and remote locations in the Northern Territory. 

“I’ll be responsible for developing strategic plans for the university’s regional campuses with a view to providing CDU with a roadmap for creating a strong presence in the communities it services.

“I’ll also identify and develop business opportunities by promoting the university’s commitment to regional and remote NT by showcasing the research, vocational and higher education offerings.

“Ultimately this new role is about empowering people through education to maximise opportunity, drive change and to develop the Northern Territory.”

Mr Walker said he was a “people manager by trade”.

“I’ve held various roles in branch management and commercial banking throughout South Australia and the Northern Territory and most recently was the Central Australian Regional Manager for the Industry Capability Network,” Mr Walker said.