Rachel Ellison
Rachel enables the Ventures team to lead programs that spark entrepreneurial thinking and help shape the next generation of innovators. She supports making entrepreneurial learning accessible, encouraging creative problem-solving, and generating new business ideas across the UQ community and beyond.
With a background spanning technology, media, higher education, and advertising - both in Australia and overseas - Rachel brings a strategic and creative edge to her work. She is passionate about process improvement, operational excellence, team engagement, and creating positive experiences for both her team and stakeholders. Her strengths in marketing, communications, business analytics, and experience design drive meaningful outcomes for Ventures and support UQ’s broader innovation agenda.
Previously, Rachel was part of UQ’s Global Partnerships team, where she contributed to strategy, intelligence, and engagement, crafted briefing materials, and supported the delivery of major international visits and executive missions. Originally from New Zealand, Rachel holds a Bachelor of Arts (Classical Studies/History) and a Graduate Diploma (Marketing/History) from the University of Otago Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, along with extensive professional development in marketing communications and business strategy.
Outside of work, Rachel channels her passion for community and talent development as a volunteer manager of a high-performing Little Athletics Centre in Brisbane and as a junior track and field coach. This hands-on leadership and sporting touchpoint enriches her professional life, bringing fresh energy and perspective to her day-to-day role.