Western Sydney University warmly congratulates Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock on her appointment as the next Vice-Chancellor of Edith Cowan University.
An esteemed higher education leader and researcher, Professor Pollock has been Western Sydney University's Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor since June 2021.
In that time she has helped deliver on many key strategic priorities for the University, such as leading the response to the Federal Government's Australian Universities Accord, as well as implementing the University's sector-leading academic decasualisation program to address the issue of insecure work and provide greater certainty and job security for academic staff.
She will leave the University mid-August to take up her new role.
Chancellor Professor Jennifer Westacott AO thanked Professor Pollock for her significant contributions to the growth and development of the University and wished her well for this next chapter in her career.
"Professor Pollock joined Western Sydney University at a critical time as we faced the global disruption of COVID-19. During a period of immense uncertainty for the higher education sector she was a steady and thoughtful voice amongst our leadership team helping the University navigate the complex challenges of the pandemic and confidently guiding our staff and students through these unprecedented events," Professor Westacott said.
"Her leadership and extensive experience was instrumental in implementing the University's six-year strategic plan Sustaining Success 2021 – 2026 and further strengthening our relationships and engagement with industry and communities across our teaching and learning, research and development.
"As Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Pollock also led our groundbreaking academic decasualisation program and the University's submissions and response to the Universities Accord, ensuring our continued commitment to higher education participation and reinforcing the critical role the University plays in driving Australia's economic growth and meeting the future skills needs for the nation.
"On behalf of the University community, I extend our warmest wishes to Clare in her new role as VC at Edith Cowan University. She has been an outstanding colleague and senior leader, and we thank her for her service."
Professor Pollock also reflected fondly on her time with Western Sydney University.
"I have very much enjoyed my time with Western and I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved together over the last three years. It is a young, ambitious institution that is deeply committed to its mission to serve the people and communities of Western Sydney," said Professor Pollock.
"Our growing reputation locally and internationally for excellence in teaching, research and engagement is indeed something to be proud of, exemplified by the University topping the prestigious Times Higher Education Impact Ranking for an unprecedented three years in a row.
"Among the many memorable moments has been celebrating the graduation success of thousands of our students – many of whom are the first in their family to go to university – and seeing the joy and pride on the faces of their families and supporters.
"It is a University that understands the transformative impact that higher education has on individuals, their families and their communities, and the vital importance of opening up that opportunity for students from all backgrounds and ensuring their success.
"It has been wonderful to be part of such a vibrant University community that is so dedicated to creating a more sustainable and equitable for all. I wish Western Sydney University's staff and students all the very best for the future."
