Michael Friend

Michael Friend currently serves as a Non Executive Director at both Riverina Local Land Services and Soil CRC, focusing on governance, risk, and strategy. Since July 2015, Michael has held various leadership roles at Charles Sturt University, including Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) and Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), while also serving as Director of the Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation. Michael's academic career began at Charles Sturt University, where contributions included teaching in animal nutrition and sheep production, alongside research in these fields. Previous experience includes a lecturer position at the University of Tasmania. Michael holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Nutritional Effects on Wool Staple Strength and a Bachelor of Science in Wool and Pastoral Sciences from UNSW, as well as a Graduate Certificate in University Teaching and Learning from Charles Sturt University and completion of the Australian Company Director's Course.