Murdoch has named former KPMG partner Gary Smith as its new chancellor. Photo: Gabriel Oliveira

New chancellor at Murdoch University

Wednesday, 24 July, 2019 - 11:15
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Gary Smith has been named Murdoch University's seventh chancellor and chair of the senate, replacing David Flanagan after the completion of his second term in the role on August 7.

Having retired as a partner of KPMG in June, Mr Smith currently co-chairs Reconciliation WA, holds a directorship with the WA Aboriginal Leadership Institute, and had previously worked as a founding director of the Committee for Perth.

In a statement, the university said Mr Smith's extensive experience and global networks would steer an agenda geared towards world-class research, new infrastructure projects and innovative teaching initiatives.

Vice-chancellor Eeva Leinonen said she looked forward to welcoming Mr Smith to the role, and thanked Mr Flanagan for his service to the university in the past six years.

Mr Flanagan said Mr Smith would help lead when it came to inclusive and high-quality education.

“[Mr Smith's] global networks and extensive leadership experience will be of great value to the university as it seeks to further build its reach and impact across the world, especially in the build up to the university’s 50th anniversary in 2024,” he said.

"Mr Smith’s reputation as a business leader with absolute integrity and commitment to social and economic advancement will be invaluable as Murdoch seeks to go from strength to strength.”