Jo Hawkins

Jo is a deep tech enthusiast with a passion for translating innovative ideas into real-world solutions. She has 20+ years of experience in strategy, innovation and business development in global companies. At the University of Western Australia (UWA), Jo develops policies, programs and partnerships to drive innovation and industry engagement. She has experience developing deep science and technology from IP to startup and commercialisation as an advisor, strategist, and ecosystem builder. Jo is skilled at connecting stakeholders from different backgrounds. She speaks the language of startups, industry, universities, and government – and helps them understand each other's perspectives. Jo is also a non-executive Director of Startup WA, a non-profit entity that works to advance the startup industry in Western Australia through representation, advocacy, and public policy. In 2021, she was recognised as one of Western Australia’s 40 under 40 business leaders.