Executive highlights
Learn about the highlights and transformative projects led by our executive team. Discover how their leadership is fostering academic excellence, innovation and partnerships that shape the future of our university.
From defence science to visionary leadership at the University of Newcastle
Vice-Chancellor and President (Chair)
Professor Zelinsky’s scientific career includes working as a computer scientist, systems engineer and roboticist and spans innovation, science and technology, research, commercial start-ups and education.
Leading academic innovation and student success
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Vice-President
Professor Mark Hoffman is an experienced senior leader in the higher education sector who values a collaborative and global focus. He believes that universities are a catalyst for social and economic advancement, of both individuals and society
Community engagement is a core element of the modern university
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global
The triple helix model of the modern university, guides Professor Kent Anderson’s approach to his new position as the University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global, a role in which engagement – local, national and global – is front and centre of his remit.
A strategic eye to the future of research
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation.
Professor Zee Upton brings energy, enthusiasm and an entrepreneurial spirt to the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation.
Global leader in Earth Sciences and Groundwater
Pro Vice-Chancellor, College of Engineering, Science and Environment
As Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Simmons provides executive leadership to the Schools of Architecture and Built Environment; Engineering; Environmental and Life Sciences; Information and Physical Sciences; and Psychological Sciences.
Education is key to a better future for our most vulnerable women and children
Pro Vice-Chancellor, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing
Professor Elizabeth Sullivan has committed her career to putting rare maternal conditions on Australia’s public health agenda.
Transparency, technology and teaching: an eye for justice
President of Academic Senate
Professor Sourdin has published and presented widely on a range of topics including justice issues, mediation, conflict resolution, collaborative law, artificial intelligence, technology and organisational change.
The art of excellence
Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic Excellence
An art historian with a flair for teaching, Professor Jennifer Milam has a career that spans North America, Europe and Australia. She joined the University of Newcastle in February 2020 in the newly created role of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic Excellence).
Human connection central to future progress
Pro Vice-Chancellor, College of Human and Social Futures
Professor Robert Greenberg, new Pro Vice-Chancellor of the College of Human and Social Futures at the University of Newcastle, is a Yale PhD and polyglot who speaks 12 languages. He champions equity in education and cultural connectivity, aiming to foster collaboration and innovation within the college’s diverse schools.
Transforming HR and Culture at the University of Newcastle
Chief People and Culture Officer
Martin has over 25 years as a HR professional across a wide range of roles across both the public and private sectors. This includes roles in Commonwealth and NSW government organisations, including over 15 years in public health in NSW, a former top 100 company as well as roles with a union and employer association.
Mr David Toll
Chief Operating Officer
David Toll has extensive expertise in finance, information technology, data science and business process reform. David is an experienced senior leader whose roles have spanned the public, private and university sectors.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.