Former General Manager of Guyra Shire Council David Cushway has been appointed the University of New England’s new Chief Operating Officer.
UNE Vice Chancellor Jim Barber said Mr Cushway brings extensive experience in managing public sector agencies as well as a forward thinking approach.
“Mr Cushway has been General Manager of Guyra Shire Council since 2008 and comes highly recommended by his current employer,” Mr Barber said.
“He was also formerly a Commander of Police, first in the Brisbane Water Local Area and as Commander of the New England Local Area Command, since 2005.
“Mr Cushway has personal experience in distance education, completing a Bachelor of Business
through Charles Sturt University and is well-qualified with a Masters in Public Administration through Sydney University.”
Mr Cushway said he looked forward to the challenges and opportunities his new role would present.
“I am aware there has been a profound turnaround in the fortunes of the university in recent times and look forward to continuing to build the momentum for growth and reinvestment in the campus in my new role,” Mr Cushway said.
“There are a number of significant projects on the agenda – the colleges redevelopment, Future Campus and significant IT Investment are all key opportunities in moving forward for the university.
“I am particularly interested in strengthening partnerships between the community and university. Building partnerships with the community is such a key part of local government and, during my time in Guyra, we achieved some wonderful things for our small community.
Guyra Shire Mayor Hans Hietbrink agreed and said Mr Cushway would be sorely missed.
“We will be very sad to see him go but, at the same time, we are pleased for Dave and wish him well in this new challenge. Dave has been with the council for four years and, in that time, he has done an exceptional job as General Manager.”
