Following a comprehensive global search, Australia’s new major university announces Professor Nicola Phillips as its new Vice Chancellor and President (Vice Chancellor) with effect from 12 January 2026.
The Adelaide University Transition Council has unanimously resolved to appoint Prof. Nicola Phillips as the new Vice Chancellor of Adelaide University following exceptional global interest and a high-quality candidate field.
Chancellor of the Adelaide University Transition Council (Transition Council), Ms Pauline Carr, said that finding the right person to lead the institution through its formative years was imperative.
“We are delighted to announce Prof. Phillips as the new Vice Chancellor of Adelaide University as we boldly take our next steps as Australia’s new comprehensive university for the future,” Carr said.
Prof. Phillips joins Adelaide University from the University of Melbourne, where she is currently the Provost and has served as both Acting and Interim Vice Chancellor. With some 30 years of experience in the higher education sector across Australia and the United Kingdom, Prof. Phillips has cultivated a deep understanding of the sector and brings a local and global perspective to the position.
“Throughout her career, Prof. Phillips has been a formidable force, guiding significant step-changes across contemporary academic delivery, student access and equity, Aboriginal knowledges, online education, and cultural inclusivity – with strong alignment to Adelaide University’s strategic direction as a differentiated member of Australia’s Group of Eight,” Carr said.
“The Transition Council would also like to recognise the monumental and continued contributions of the founding co-Vice Chancellors, Professors Peter Høj AC and David Lloyd, who are establishing the solid foundations on which the institution will see sustained success. They will also be instrumental in transitioning the leadership from now until when Prof. Phillips begins the role as well as winding down the foundation universities.”
Prof. Phillips will actively shape Adelaide University as it begins operations.
“I am thrilled to be joining Adelaide University at a time of unmatched potential and possibilities – and to call South Australia home,” Prof. Phillips said.
“I look forward to leading Adelaide University and establishing the institution as a trailblazer for change, where education and research of the highest quality reach into all corners of our society to transform the lives of individuals and communities.”
The global search was led by the Adelaide University Transition Council, in partnership with executive search firm, Korn Ferry, and informed by the Recruitment Recommendations Panel comprising internal and expert external members.
Insights on selection criteria deemed most important were also provided by staff, students, alumni and key partners. Inspirational and visionary leadership, being a visible role model with high ethical standards, and building a cohesive and constructive culture as well as having strong academic credentials were identified amongst some of the most valued attributes.
Prof. Phillips will commence in the role from 12 January 2026 to align with Adelaide University’s opening of its inaugural academic year.
