The University of Newcastle has announced the appointment of Professor Kent Anderson to the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Global.

The appointment will see Kent join the Senior Executive team at the University when he starts in the position on 7 June this year.

Kent is highly respected as an innovative leader with a passion for engagement in communities and internationalisation in the higher education sector.

He is returning to the University of Newcastle after working for the institution as Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Advisor in 2019 before moving across to his current role as the Senior Advisor on Higher Education to the Federal Minister for Education.

From 2014-18, Kent was Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Engagement) at the University of Western Australia and prior to that held the role of Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) at the University of Adelaide.

He has also worked in the higher education sector at ANU where he was the Foundation Director of the School of Culture, History and Language and as an Associate Professor in Law at Hokkaido University.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said the University is thrilled to have such a prominent leader on board to support their senior executive team.

“I’m delighted that Professor Anderson, a demonstrated leader with experience across academia, government and corporate sectors in Australia and abroad is joining our senior executive team,” Alex said.

“Our University has a focus on partnerships and engagement in the Looking Ahead Strategic Plan and I’m confident that Professor Anderson’s experience and expertise will boost our efforts in this field – in our local regions across the Hunter and Central Coast as well as in the Asia Pacific and beyond.

“Kent’s understanding of the complexities of global education will, of course, bring valuable expertise to our international agenda.”

In the new role, he will lead the Division incorporating Global, Marketing and Communications, and the Alumni and Philanthropy.

“Between them, these teams play a critical role in the way we engage with our communities and are the revenue-generating powerhouse of the University – so having a leader of Professor Anderson’s quality will only boost their efforts,” Alex said.

“I would also like to acknowledge the outstanding job that Professor Tony Travaglione has done as our Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement and Partnerships) since Professor Kevin’s Hall’s departure last year to become the Vice-Chancellor at the University of Victoria, British Columbia.

“I’m pleased Tony will continue to serve our institution as the Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer, UON Singapore.

“His extensive experience in international education and global education partnerships as well as a deep understanding of the Asia-Pacific business community will be invaluable in this important role,” Alex concluded.

IMAGE | Professor Kent Anderson joins UoN as their new Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Global.