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Dwayne Kirk
Director - Business Advisory Services (CDIC) at Australian Department of Defence
Professional Background
Dwayne Kirk is a seasoned professional in the field of business management and strategic leadership, particularly within the realm of Defence industries in Australia. He currently serves as the Director of Business Advisory Services for the Centre for Defence Industry Capability (CDIC), which is funded by the Department of Defence and operates under the AusIndustry division of the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science. Under Dwayne's stewardship, the CDIC has established a national network of Defence Business Advisers, who possess regional and operational expertise aimed at guiding Australian businesses to better engage and collaborate with Defence sectors. Since joining the CDIC at its inception in December 2016, Dwayne has leveraged over two decades of extensive experience in research and development, strategically helping businesses enhance their capabilities and access opportunities within the Defence supply chain.
Dwayne's professional journey has been marked by significant roles across various organizations, showcasing his adaptability and leadership in diverse commercial landscapes. He has successfully partnered with universities, startups, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and multinational corporations. His extensive background encompasses the assessment, management, development, and commercialization of innovative products across a myriad of fields including biotechnology, micro/nanotechnology, medical imaging, and additive manufacturing. This diversified experience positions him as an invaluable resource in bridging the gap between industry and Defence.
Education and Achievements
Dwayne Kirk boasts an impressive educational background that forms the foundation of his successful career. He earned a Doctorate in Biology from Arizona State University, where he also studied Law and Business, marking a commitment to both the scientific and commercial dimensions of his expertise. His academic qualifications extend to a Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Movement Studies from The University of Queensland, as well as an Associate Diploma in Management from the Department of Defence in Australia. Furthermore, Dwayne has completed the Company Directors Course at the esteemed Australian Institute of Company Directors, enhancing his leadership capabilities within the corporate governance landscape.
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dwayne’s role as a former officer in the Royal Australian Navy showcases his discipline and commitment to service, adding a unique perspective to his business endeavors. His pedigree as a founder of several successful businesses in varied commercial areas exemplifies his entrepreneurial spirit and his ability to navigate complex business landscapes effectively.
Notable Achievements
Dwayne's career is sprinkled with notable achievements, reflecting his dedication to promoting innovation and growth in the Defence sector. As the Manager of Defence Business Advisory Services at the CDIC, he has played a pivotal role in the operationalization of initiatives that support Australian Defence businesses. Through his innovative approaches and strategic insights, Dwayne has been instrumental in facilitating partnerships that empower businesses to develop their capabilities to compete within the Defence sector.
Dwayne’s leadership was further demonstrated through his tenure as the Acting Chief Executive Officer at Amaero Engineering Pty Ltd, where his strategic insight into product development and commercialization processes allowed the organization to thrive in a competitive global market. His experience as Director at Kirk Consulting Group Pty Ltd has also contributed to enhancing operational effectiveness for numerous clients, highlighting his ability to provide expert advisory services tailored to diverse business needs.
His previous roles at the Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication and Monash University reflect his commitment to academia and R&D, providing him a unique vantage point to foster innovation within industry collaborations. He has also contributed to significant projects and initiatives as a Director and Project Manager at respected institutions, including the Boyce Thompson Institute at Cornell University and as an Academic Associate at Arizona State University.
Dwayne’s rich experience and leadership have not only positively impacted the organizations he has served but have also fostered a culture of growth and development within the Defence industry as a whole. His commitment to enhancing Australia's Defence capabilities through effective collaboration with businesses aligns perfectly with the strategic goals of the CDIC and the broader objectives of the Department of Defence.
Achievements
- Established a national network of Defence Business Advisers at CDIC, providing essential support to Australian businesses working with Defence.
- Led significant initiatives for the CDIC aimed at developing capabilities for Australian industries, particularly in Defence.
- Chaired successful partnerships with academic institutions and private sectors, enabling groundbreaking collaborations in R&D.
- Pioneered the commercialization of diverse technological innovations during his leadership roles across various companies.
- Contributed to the strategic growth of multiple startups and SMEs in advanced manufacturing and biotechnology sectors.
- Successfully guided Defence-related projects that promoted the utilization of Australian businesses within the Defence supply chain.
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