We Are The University

Vice-Chancellor's Update | 19 August 2025

undefined

Mon Aug 18 2025 12:00:00 GMT+1200 (New Zealand Standard Time)

Kia ora tātou

Appointment of the Chief Operating Officer & Registrar Following an international search, I am pleased to announce that Mark Gregory will commence as our new Chief Operating Officer and Registrar in December.

We are deeply appreciative of Adrienne Cleland for her longstanding leadership of the Enabling Environment portfolio, and to Tim Bluett for stepping up to facilitate leadership of a range of University-wide projects. Both Adrienne and Tim will continue in role until later in the year, enabling a smooth transition for Mark.

Retirement of Professor Nuala Gregory Professor Nuala Gregory, Dean, Te Pūtahi Mātauranga, Faculty of Arts and Education, has announced her intention to retire and return to Ireland early next year, after serving the University for nearly 28 years in a number of academic and leadership positions. There will be an opportunity to reflect on Nuala’s contribution and achievements at her farewell to be scheduled early next year.

Kōrero Mai Staff Engagement Survey Thank you to everyone who participated in the recent Kōrero Mai Staff Engagement Survey. I’m pleased to share that 70 percent of eligible staff took part. This is a strong response that reflects a shared desire to keep improving the experience of working at the University and one that sits above the 65 percent average for comparable higher education institutions in Oceania. In the coming weeks, the survey findings will be reviewed to identify the areas where change will have the greatest impact. Find out more on the intranethttps://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/intranet/stay-informed/staff-communications/staff-surveys.html.

All-staff forum update Due to a scheduling conflict with the Council meeting, the all-staff forum planned for 27 August has been cancelled. The forum will return on Wednesday 24 September with an invitation to follow shortly. If you were unable to join us last month, you can watch a recording of the Online Town Hall on the intranethttps://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/intranet/stay-informed/staff-communications/staff-forums/05.html.

Ngā mihi nui Dawn

Professor Dawn Freshwater Vice-Chancellor