February 22, 2017
The Group of Eight (Go8) considers the appointment of Monash University Vice Chancellor and Go8 Board member Professor Margaret Gardner as Chair of Universities Australia to be an inspired choice of leader – a leader for the times.
“As Australia’s university sector faces a difficult and complex time, beset with Government policy inertia, Professor Gardner’s well-recognised abilities for finding successful negotiation pathways and delivering results is exactly what the sector needs at its helm,” says Vicki Thomson, Go8 Chief Executive.
“Professor Gardner, who has been Vice Chancellor at Go8 member Monash University since 2014, and who was previously Vice Chancellor of RMIT, has never shied away from hard decisions for the long-term strategic benefit of the institution she has so successfully led,” said Ms Thomson.
“In addition, Professor Gardner’s knowledge and focus on the international student market – currently a $22 billion export earner for Australia – will benefit policy direction significantly as the sector seeks to capitalise on international issues such as Brexit, and encourage more international students to see Australia as a safe and welcoming quality destination.”
Ms Thomson said the sector would benefit enormously from Professor Gardner’s capabilities and determination and the Go8 looks forward to continuing to work with her as one of our Board members and now also as Chair of Universities Australia.”
Contact: Vicki Thomson Group of Eight Chief Executive on +61 438 047 155
