John Howard
John brings a distinguished career as a highly experienced policy adviser and consultant with a track record of achievement in science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy, regional development, industry economics. public finance, and higher education reform.
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His achievements include founding and leading a prominent management consulting firm, shaping national research and innovation strategies, and playing a key role in driving industry transformation and sustainability initiatives for major public sector institutions. His work has had lasting impacts across government, academia, and industry.
My Story
Academic
PhD, The University of Sydney, 2004. Innovation Studies
MA. University of Canberra, 1982. Public Administration and Policy
BEc (Hons). University of Tasmania, 1970. Awarded subject prizes in Pubic Administration I, II, and III
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Career
Director, Howard Partners Pty (also trading as Acton Institute for Policy Research and Innovation), 1998-2023.
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Innovation and Engagement, University of Canberra, 2008-2011.
Partner, Ernst & Young, Coopers & Lybrand, 1988-1998.
Principal, John H Howard & Associates, 1984-1988.
Australian Advisory Council for Intergovernmental Relations and Government of Tasmania (Treasury), 1982-1983.
House of Representatives Committee Office, 1980-1982.
Commonwealth Government (Treasury, Finance, Urban Regional Development), 1972-1980.
University of Tasmania, Department of Political Science, 1970-1971
Student (full time), University of Tasmania 1967-1970.
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Board Roles
Taree Universities Campus (Foundation Chair), 2018-19.
Great Lakes Education Fund (Country Education Foundation), 2011-2019.
Canberra Business Council, 2007-2011.
Capital Region Development Board, 2005-2007.
Canberra Yacht Club, Vice Commodore, 1977-1980.
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Recreation
Sailing - Derwent River Harbour Racing, Sydney Short Offshore, Owner—Gwen 12, Lightweight Sharpie, Flying 15,
Photography - Semi-professional—events, street. Sales on Adobe, Shutterstock.
Reading - In biography, public affairs, business innovation, and crime fiction.
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Family
Married, two sons.