The global search process has commenced to recruit a single Vice Chancellor and President of Australia’s new major university.
Adelaide University is set to deliver an ambitious education and research agenda, combining two preeminent institutions, the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide. It will open in January 2026 and deliver nation-leading curriculum, exceptional student experience, and future-making research within a framework of deep industry connection.
Adelaide University Transition Council Chancellor Pauline Carr says the role of Vice Chancellor and President (Vice Chancellor) from 2026 offers a once in a generation opportunity to lead a new global university headquartered in one of the world’s most liveable locations.
“We are creating a university for the future that will make a transformative impact in our world,” Chancellor Carr says.
“Having the right person at the helm will be critical to its success, someone with an extensive track record of visionary leadership and the proven capability to deliver outstanding results in an environment of similar scale.
“Adelaide University’s new leader must also share our values and goals, including our commitment to educational equality and our ambition to rank sustainably in the world’s top 100 universities, as a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight (Go8).”
The views of staff, students and alumni as well as other stakeholders from the University’s community will help to inform the key attributes of a successful appointee, with engagement to commence this month.
The recruitment process is being led by the Adelaide University Transition Council in partnership with its executive search partner Korn Ferry, which was appointed in December last year following a competitive tender process. Applications for the Vice Chancellor role will close on Tuesday 18 March 2025.
The current co-Vice Chancellors of Adelaide University, Professor Peter Høj AC and Professor David Lloyd, confirmed last month that neither would seek to take on the new role of Vice Chancellor. They will continue to confidently lead Adelaide University’s transition into 2026, while also remaining Vice Chancellors of their respective universities until relevant legislation is repealed in the first quarter of next year.
