We seek an exceptional person committed to furthering the role of universities in society, and with an authentic understanding of regional Australia. Our new Chancellor will be the principal ambassador for an institution that is proudly unconventional, harnessing the traditional university role of knowledge creation and sharing to community impact and commercial vitality. UNE’s new Chancellor will embrace and promote this distinctive mission.
Importantly, we are looking for a Chancellor who brings strategic stability and stewardship, with a focus on supporting the delivery and oversight of UNE’s 2026–2035 Strategic Plan and ensuring the University continues to build on its strengths while responding confidently to the opportunities ahead.
The University Council is committed to a wide-ranging, best-practice search process. The Chancellor Selection Committee, which I will chair, has been appointed in accordance with the UNE Council Charter. Our committee comprises Vice-Chancellor & CEO Professor Chris Moran, Chair of the Academic Board Professor Adrian Walsh, and Council members Mrs Megan Aitken (Deputy Chair), Professor Jody Currie, and Mr Phil Hess. We will also welcome two external members, to be announced in due course.
The role of the Selection Committee is to undertake a search for a new Chancellor and make recommendations to Council. The Committee will be aided by global executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles. The appointment of a Chancellor is a key priority for Council, and the process will continue until we find the right candidate.
The Selection Committee will engage with our broad constituency of stakeholders as a part of this process, including staff, students and alumni.
The Committee welcomes the opportunity to hear from members of our University and broader community, and I am very open to hearing directly from any stakeholder who wishes to share their perspective as part of this broader consultative effort. Contact chancelloradmin@une.edu.au.
Information about the search for a new Chancellor will be posted on the UNE Chancellor Selection website.
David van Aanholt
Acting Chancellor and Chair
UNE Chancellor Selection Committee
