Former University of Melbourne vice chancellor Glyn Davis has been appointed as its interim leader. He will serve in this role while the university searches for a successor to Emma Johnston, who died last month. Chancellor Jane Hansen informed university staff on Monday that Davis will assume the position in February.
Background
Davis previously served as the university's 19th vice chancellor from 2005 to 2018. Most recently, he headed the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Chancellor Hansen stated that the University Council's focus in making this appointment was to ensure leadership, stability, and confidence as the university works towards its strategic goals outlined in the approved Strategy 2030. Hansen noted Davis's knowledge and experience of the University of Melbourne and the higher education sector.
Professor Johnston had been in the university's top leadership role for less than 12 months when she died in December from cancer at age 52. In her final weeks, Johnston finalized the initial phase of the University Strategy 2030, a 10-year plan aimed at building a more resilient institution focused on societal benefit through education and research.
Professor Michael Wesley and Professor Jane Gunn will serve as acting vice chancellors until Davis officially begins his interim role on February 2.