A range of demanding senior academic roles in universities around the world - from Professor of Chemistry to Head of Research and Enterprise - have forged in Brigid Heywood a steely belief in the power of collaboration, consultation and a good laugh.
As she assumes the role of Vice-Chancellor of the University of New England, the former Girl Guide reflects on what makes an effective leader.
"A good leader should be open and adaptable - to the needs of their workplace, their partners and their stakeholders. You need to be engaged, flexible and a good listener.
I think it's important that you give people permission to try out different things and to welcome that as part of a dynamic, innovative, forward-looking team mentality.
I think I'm good at making decisions and I am happy to put my hand up and say 'well that didn't work; let's try something else', as much as I am happy to pop the cork on a bottle of champagne and celebrate success.
I am really proud that I have built strong teams around the world and that we stay in touch, even now. I know that I was truly a part of something in the places that I worked. Former PhD students and staff colleagues still send me Christmas cards and write to me about their families and jobs, many years later. I've been known to cry at graduation ceremonies, watching graduates and their families celebrate their achievements.
I am the classic Girl Guide. I'm energetic, alert and I don't like going into things unprepared. It's not that I don't like moments of danger, and lack spontaneity, but I like to do my background preparation so that I can genuinely make a contribution rather than consuming the ideas of others. I am a naturally collaborative person and I think that's important.
Leaders also need to be good at managing themselves. It's important when you are in a big job to take care of your own wellbeing and to maintain a good work-life balance. Having a good sense of humour helps.
I also feel very fortunate to have a good circle of family, friends and supporters all over the world who are honest and reliable and will give me good feedback. I often try things out on them. I've built up the support mechanisms that work best for me and allow me to use my energy and passion to best effect. And I have a very supportive partner and a beautiful, if slightly temperamental cat to go home to at the end of the day."
