Speakers

Dr James Mullins AM is the inaugural Director of Defence and Security within Deakin Universities Strategic Partnership portfolio. Responsible for driving Deakin’s Defence and Emergency Services strategy, James is a​ strategic innovation leader, technologist and systems thinker, with a track record of championing technology partnerships to develop world-first solutions delivering competitive advantage for the commercial, private, education and Defence sectors. A dynamic executive with a passion for translating organisational objectives into technology strategies and initiatives and establishing collaborative partnerships. Professional engineer with board experience, research and development training, a strong work ethic and family history of service. Connected internationally with innovative thought leaders through a strong peer network with capability to build and maintain strategic relationships with stakeholders across all levels of an organisation. As a people leader, James has a solid focus on improving organisational culture, investing in building growth by upskilling and supporting professional development across teams to ensure success. James has an in-depth understanding of the Australian tertiary sector, the Australian and US Defence sectors, their operations, funding mechanisms, challenges and opportunities, gleaned from over 25 years’ experience. James founded an immersive technology company FLAIM Systems in 2018 successfully commercialising a university project into an immersive virtual reality training tool used in over 50 countries. James is a third-generation firefighter with over 30 years experience and was awarded membership to the order of Australia in 2024 for significant contribution to science and the emergency services and the fire authority outstanding service medal for contribution to innovation.