RESTRUCTURE of the senior executive team was the reason for David Cushway’s departure from the University of New England, interim vice-chancellor Annabelle Duncan says.
Professor Duncan declined to be interviewed by the Armidale Independent, but said in a statement that UNE was going through a period of change following vice-chancellor Jim Barber’s departure and the subsequent international search for a replacement.
“This presents a rare window of opportunity to ensure the roles and responsibilities of our senior executives more accurately reflect the core business of the University – teaching and research,” she said.
“The key to our success has been ensuring we are willing to make changes at the right time.
“Adjusting to the demand-driven system and our surging growth in online students are examples of our flexibility and adaptability.”
Professor Duncan said making the decision to restructure the university’s senior leadership team would allow the UNE community to establish new priorities and goals prior to a permanent vice-chancellor being appointed.
“Our new senior executive team will be well placed to position UNE in an increasingly competitive market, paving the way for a smooth transition to a new vice-chancellor.”
