Luke Sheehy has over two decades of experience in shaping the higher education agenda in Asia Pacific.
Luke Sheehy has over two decades of experience in shaping the higher education agenda in Asia Pacific.
The Universities Australia Board has announced the appointment of Luke Sheehy as the new chief executive for a five-year term, effective from Feb. 7, 2024.
Sheehy, a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in shaping the higher education agenda, has successfully led the Australian Technology Network of Universities for nearly five years, as per a press release by Universities Australia. His extensive background includes pivotal roles in government, education, and strategy consultancy for the Asian Development Bank, as well as senior management positions at Swinburne University.
Vision for higher education
Sheehy expressed his honor at leading such a crucial sector, emphasizing his personal connection to the transformative power of education.
As the first member of his family to graduate from university, he said he knows firsthand the power of education to transform lives and is driven to ensure that opportunity is provided to as many people as possible.
In anticipation of the challenges and reforms ahead, Sheehy pledged to advocate for the policies and funding necessary for the higher education sector.
“Australia’s success is intrinsically linked to a strong pipeline of skills delivered by our world-class universities,” said Sheehy.
“With 2024 set to be a year of big reform, I will bring the energy and enthusiasm necessary to ensure we come up with meaningful change and advance the interests of UA’s members,” he added.
Universities Australia Chair Professor David Lloyd also expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “We’re delighted to appoint someone of Luke’s calibre to lead Universities Australia through what will be a crucial period for universities.”
He added that Sheehy’s skills and expertise will greatly contribute to UA as we persist in collaborating with the government to create an environment where universities can consistently contribute to the nation’s development.
“Luke takes the reins from Catriona Jackson, who has done an outstanding job of leading UA and leaves the organization in a strong position,” said Lloyd.
“I thank Catriona for her considerable contribution over a long period and look forward to working with Luke to continue taking our sector forward,” he added.
Jackson’s resignation
In October, Jackson announced her resignation after seven and a half years, with her departure effective on Dec. 22.
In her statement, Jackson expressed the difficulty of the decision and emphasized that it is the right time to pass on the leadership as the Australian Universities Accord process concludes.
Despite stepping down from her current role, Jackson affirmed her ongoing commitment to working within and around Australia’s universities.
“I have loved serving the Australian university sector and will continue to work in and around Australia’s great universities,” she said.
“Our universities are precious national assets, working every day to improve the lives of every Australian, making our nation stronger, safer and more successful,” she added.
Jackson expressed gratitude to those who collaborated with her in promoting and safeguarding the sector. She specifically thanked UA officials she closely worked with, including Professors David Lloyd, John Dewar AO, Deborah Terry AO, Margaret Gardner AO, and Barney Glover AO.
Lloyd also praised Jackson for her outstanding leadership since 2018.
He commended her as a consummate professional and principled advocate, acknowledging her role in representing Australia’s universities and navigating challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Jackson’s leadership, the sector successfully advocated for an additional $1 billion in research funding.
Lloyd also recognized Jackson’s pivotal role in the Australian Universities Accord, where she lobbied for policies and funding arrangements supporting a thriving, diverse, and inclusive higher education sector.
He expressed complete gratitude on behalf of Australia’s 39 comprehensive universities for her contributions.
Renee Hindmarsh will serve as the acting chief executive of Universities Australia until Feb. 6, 2024.
Universities Australia serves as the collective voice for Australia’s universities, advocating for the significant social, economic, and cultural contributions of higher education and research on both national and global scales.
Representing 39 member universities, the organization offers expert policy advice, statistical evidence, and media commentary. It actively engages in submissions, policy development, and representation on various governmental and industry bodies, fostering collaborations with international university sectors.
The organization contributes to the growth of the Australian university sector by hosting flagship conferences, policy workshops, and promoting the accomplishments of university graduates and research through campaigns.
Universities Australia, funded by member universities’ annual contributions, also provides access to collective procurement and licensing agreements through its subsidiary Higher Ed Services.
