Inspiring alumni series
School of Chemical Engineering
In 2020, the School of Chemical Engineering at UNSW launched the "Inspiring Alumni" series offering a platform for students to connect with our alumni. The series has featured numerous notable alumni, and exemplifies the school’s dedication to fostering a supportive community, celebrating alumni achievements, and inspiring future Chemical Engineering students.
If you wish to contact the UNSW Alumni and Engagement office, please email alumni@unsw.edu.au.
Vesna Olles, Director, Strategy and Clean Energy, BOC
Vesna Olles, a UNSW Chemical Engineering and Masters in Commerce graduate is responsible for leading BOC’s Strategy and Clean Energy agenda in the South Pacific. Her role includes market development, government and industry relations, strategic partnerships and execution responsibility for BOC’s Clean Energy projects ranging in value up to $1.4Billion.
Dr Judy Raper, Former Dean and CEO of TEDI-London
Professor Raper’s achievements and awards include the Shedden Pacific award for young Chemical Engineer and the Avon Spirit of Achievement Award in 1992, The Ada Lovelace Award for the most prominent female engineer in Australia in 2018, and the award of Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2019. She has been named one of Australia’s 100 most influential engineers, and in 2019 was named by Engineers Australia as one of Australia’s 10 Leading female Engineers. Dr Judy Raper was Dean and CEO of TEDI-London from 2019 - 2023.
Mick Farrell, CEO of Resmed
Mick Farrell, a Chemical Engineering graduate from UNSW (class of 1994), has navigated a diverse career path from BHP to DowDuPont before making his mark in healthcare. As CEO of Resmed, he shares insights from his journey to achieving his professional ambitions.
Louise Warner, CCO Ampol
Louise Warner, a Chemical Engineering graduate from UNSW (class of 1999), has risen to prominence in the petroleum industry. With experience at Caltex and Chevron, she now serves as Chief Commercial Officer at Ampol, leveraging her leadership skills and industry expertise.
Kirsty Germaine, Technical Director
Dr. Kirsty Germaine, a Food Science graduate from UNSW (class of 1999), has evolved into a strategic technical leader in the food industry. With a background at BRI Research and George Weston Foods, she currently serves as Technical Director at MAURI Australia, driving innovation and excellence.
Attila Brungs, VC and President UTS (current VC UNSW Sydney)
Professor Attila Brungs, a UNSW Industrial Chemistry graduate and Rhodes Scholar, has held influential positions in academia and industry. From CSIRO to McKinsey & Company, he now leads the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) as Vice-Chancellor and President, shaping the future of education and research.
Theresa Sukka, GM Innovation and New Product Development
Dr. Theresa Sukkar, an Industrial Chemist graduate from UNSW (class of 1995), boasts a global career in technical leadership. With experience at companies like Ecolab and 3M, she now prepares to take on the role of General Manager of Innovation & New Product Development, bringing her expertise to drive growth and innovation.
Jennifer Moss, Chief R&D Officer, pladis
Jennifer Moss, with degrees in Industrial Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from UNSW, has built a distinguished career in consumer products. With extensive experience at Unilever and Procter & Gamble, she now leads R&D at pladis, driving innovation and revitalising established brands.
Dan Mullette, Head R&D, Arnott’s Group
Daniel Mullette, a graduate of Industrial Chemistry from UNSW (class of 2000), brings over 20 years of R&D experience to his role at Arnott’s Group. With a background in water treatment and consumer goods, he leads R&D efforts, ensuring continued excellence in food and beverage products.
Sandeep Chandra, Head of Strategy and Operations, Atlassian
Sandeep Chandra, an Industrial Chemist graduate from UNSW (class of 2010), has transitioned into a dynamic leader in the tech industry. With a background in strategy consulting and nuclear medicine, he now heads Strategy and Operations at Atlassian, driving innovation and agility.
