Office of the Chief Operating Officer

The Office of the Chief Operating Officer (OCOO) supports the Chief Operating Officer (COO) in providing strategic leadership and operational stewardship across The Australian National University (ANU). The office works closely with Colleges, Service Divisions, and University leaders to enable the delivery of the University's strategic priorities and operational objectives.

The OCOO takes responsibility for supporting the strategy and agenda of the COO, providing advice and executive support to the COO and senior leaders in the services portfolio; coordinating key operational initiatives; and ensuring effective governance, planning, and performance oversight across the University's professional services portfolio.

The OCOO team supports the COO through the management of strategic projects, coordination of executive and operational governance forums, including preparation of briefings and submissions, and oversight of business planning and institutional performance activities. The office works collaboratively across the University to promote operational excellence, facilitate organisational efficiency, and strengthen coordination between academic and professional areas.

Our Contacts

Functional

NameContact details
Office of the Chief Operating Officer 
Executive Assistant 

People

NameContact details
Michael Schwager 
Chief Operating Officer
Ridhish Arora 
Program Director, Service Delivery
Alice Balnaves-Knyvett 
Executive Officer
Zoe Bowman 
Program Manager, Nixon Projects & Mental Health & Wellbeing Strategy
Jessa Cuzner 
Portfolio Administrator
Matthew Heffernan 
Program Manager, Service Delivery
Anne Quiggin 
Head, Office of the Chief Operating Officer
Sarah Rickett 
Senior Advisor
Claudia Villegas 
Executive Assistant