With nearly 30 years of experience spanning global consulting, financial services, regional development and higher education, Leigh Kennedy is a senior executive with expertise in engagement, strategy, research, consulting and communications.

Leigh began her career with leading international organisations including Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, Accenture and Standard Chartered Bank. Following her return to Australia, she served as Gippsland Regional Director for Regional Development Victoria, where she worked closely with government, industry and community stakeholders to drive regional economic growth and investment.

In 2019, Leigh joined Federation University Australia as Head of Campus, Gippsland. Since 2022, she has led the University's Engagement and Co-operative portfolio, driving strategic partnerships and industry engagement across all campuses and regions. Her work focuses on building authentic and mutually beneficial relationships with industry, government and community partners that enhance student outcomes, support regional prosperity and strengthen the University's impact.

As Pro Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Co-op, Leigh oversees the University's engagement and partnership activities, including:

• Alumni
• Co-operative placements
• Federation University Foundation
• Industry, Government and Community Engagement

Leigh holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from Monash University and an Executive MBA from Bayes Business School (formerly Cass Business School), City University of London.