Shannon Willoughby is Executive Director for Strategic Partnerships - Government and Industry at The University of Queensland. Working with the Vice-Chancellor and President, Shannon drives strategic engagement with government to support new partnerships and influence policy – particularly in priority industries and sectors of focus, including the bioeconomy, energy transitions, the biomedical sector, workforce and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Shannon previously ran the State Government’s International Education and Training strategy, working across the state and internationally to grow the service export and enhancing student experience amongst Queensland education visitors. Shannon was also the CEO of Study Gold Coast, and a former chief reporter at News Limited. She sits on a number of boards and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.