The University of Newcastle, Australia

The University of Newcastle's 6th Chancellor, Dr Kenneth Moss AM, begins his term today.

Dr Moss succeeds Professor Trevor Waring AM, who served in the position for eight years.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Caroline McMillen, said Dr Moss brought significant knowledge and expertise to this important role.

“In a career spanning 35 years, Dr Moss has held leadership positions across the maritime services, mining and engineering sectors. His strong business acumen and his long connection with the University, ideally place him to fulfil the role of Chancellor.”

A Newcastle alumnus, Dr Moss graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering degree (Hons) in 1968 and a Doctor of Philosophy in mechanical engineering in 1974. He was a foundation board member of Hunter Medical Research Institute and has been a member of University Council since 2010.

Dr Moss’ professional background includes Managing Director of global maritime company, Howard Smith Ltd, National Vice President for the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Chairman of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and a director for the National Australia Bank Ltd.

Dr Moss is on the board for the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and was previously the Chairman of Boral Ltd, Centennial Coal Ltd and GPT Group Ltd.

Dr Moss said he was honoured to be appointed the significant role of Chancellor.

“I am looking forward to working with my colleagues in the University and on Council, and representing this great university in the community.”

Professor McMillen extended a special thanks to the outgoing Chancellor, Professor Trevor Waring AM, acknowledging his leadership, commitment and passion for the University during a remarkable period of service in the role.

A summary of Dr Moss’s educational qualifications and career follows and a photo of Dr Moss can be provided on request.

For interviews with Dr Moss or Professor McMillen please contact Megan Cunneen in Media and Public Relations on 4985 4049.

 

Bio: Kenneth John Moss AM, BE (Hons), PhD (Newcastle), Hon FIE Aust, FAICD

Dr Moss graduated from the University of Newcastle with a Bachelor of Engineering degree in mechanical engineering, with honours, in 1968. He gained his doctorate in 1974 in the same discipline with a topic that investigated roof support in underground structures. During his time at University he served as a member and President of the Board of the University Union and as a member of the Students’ Representative Council. He was elected an honorary life member of the Union.

Dr Moss worked at BHP’s Newcastle Steelworks, Northern Collieries, and other subsidiaries before joining Howard Smith Ltd’s heavy engineering subsidiary, A Goninan & Co Ltd in 1974.

He gained wide managerial experience in various Howard Smith subsidiaries, including in the UK, before being appointed Managing Director in 1993. Since 1987, he has been a director of various subsidiary boards covering industries as diverse as stevedoring, shipping, harbour towage and salvage, industrial and retail hardware, heavy engineering and manufacturing.

He was a foundation board member of Hunter Medical Research Institute and a board member of Hunter Area Health Service (2000-2004).

Since his retirement from Howard Smith in 2000, Dr Moss has been a non executive director of a number of companies including National Australia Bank Ltd, Adsteam Marine Ltd and Macquarie Capital Alliance Group. He was also formerly the Chairman of Boral Ltd, Centennial Coal Company Ltd and GPT Group Ltd.
Dr Moss was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2008 for services to business in the mining, financial and property development sectors, and to the community through contributions to maritime, educational and health organisations.

Dr Moss joined the University of Newcastle Council in 2010.