The picture of what Adelaide University will become is getting clearer with the appointment of its first Deputy Vice Chancellors (DVCs). The newly minted DVCs will officially start their roles today with Adelaide University due to kick off its operations on 1 January 2026 – setting the stage for a robust educational framework tailored to meet the future needs of students and the broader community.
The merging of Uni SA and University of Adelaide is due to create a leading global entity known for educational excellence and societal contributions.
The university’s leadership, co-Vice Chancellors Professor Peter Høj and Professor David Lloyd, shared their thoughts on this pivotal moment.
“The selection of the DVCs will provide strong foundational leadership during this period of transition and change,” they stated.
At Adelaide University, the appointed Deputy Vice Chancellors will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles. Professor John Williams AM serves as the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, while Mr. Paul Beard holds the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor Corporate.
Championing Indigenous affairs is Professor Steve Larkin as Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous, and Professor Jessica Gallagher oversees International & External Engagement.
The role of Deputy Vice Chancellor People & Culture is fulfilled by Ms. Paula Ward, with Professor Anton Middelberg FTSE leading Research & Innovation. Mr. Tom Steer focuses on Student Experience & Success, and Professor Joanne Cys serves as the Provost & Deputy Vice Chancellor.
Together, these leaders are dedicated to advancing the university’s mission and enhancing the academic community.
“We congratulate our newly appointed colleagues who we know will provide the vision, expertise and guidance in realising our collective ambitions for a new university for the future,” Professors Lloyd and Høj said.
“This leadership group have a tremendous depth of talent and we very much look forward to continuing our important work in establishing a world-class contemporary and comprehensive institution and member of Australia’s prestigious and research-intensive Group of Eight [Go8].”
The comprehensive recruitment process was managed independently by the renowned firm, Boyden Australia, ensuring that the selection was conducted with utmost professionalism and integrity.
Adelaide University’s international student applications are also currently being accepted. Further, the application process for research degrees will open in early 2025.
Local students looking to enrol in coursework programs can begin their application process in August 2025, in preparation for the 2026 academic year.
This strategic expansion in leadership is expected to guide Adelaide University as it crafts a niche for itself among the elite institutions of higher learning, particularly as a part of the Group of Eight, which represents some of Australia’s leading universities committed to intensive research.
The inclusion of such diverse roles among the DVCs highlights Adelaide University’s commitment to addressing various aspects of education, research, and community engagement efficiently and effectively, preparing the institution for significant future contributions to both national and global educational landscapes.
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