Flinders University has announced significant changes in its leadership team, appointing Professor Tracy Humphrey as Vice President and Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, and Jonathan Pheasant as Vice-President of Corporate Services. These appointments, effective September 1 and October 7 respectively, follow a comprehensive recruitment process aimed at strengthening the university’s strategic direction.
Professor Tracy Humphrey joins from the University of South Australia, where she served as Executive Dean of Clinical and Health Sciences. With a rich background in midwifery, Humphrey has also held positions at Edinburgh Napier University in Scotland. Her academic journey began with a degree in midwifery from the University of Stirling, followed by a Master of Science in Midwifery from the University of Aberdeen and a doctorate in 2007.
Flinders University Vice Chancellor, Professor Colin Stirling, expressed confidence in Humphrey’s ability to lead, highlighting her commitment to improving health outcomes through education and research.
“Her deep expertise in nursing, midwifery, and allied health education, coupled with her success in growing research performance and workforce development, makes her ideally suited to lead the College at this exciting time for Flinders University,”
Stirling stated.
Jonathan Pheasant: Strategic Leadership in Corporate Services
Jonathan Pheasant brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as Chief Operating Officer at the University of Canberra. His career spans significant roles at the Australian National University, UNSW, and the University of Adelaide. Pheasant’s expertise in strategic planning and service delivery is expected to enhance Flinders University’s operational capabilities.
Professor Stirling noted the importance of Pheasant’s role, stating,
“Jonathan will lead the Corporate Services portfolio at Flinders and joins us at a significant time as we continue to invest in our people, systems, and infrastructure to support our education and research activities.”
Leadership Transition at SACOME
In another notable leadership change, Rebecca Knol has announced her resignation as CEO of the South Australian Chamber of Mines & Energy (SACOME) after nearly nine years. Under her leadership, SACOME has been instrumental in several key projects, including the duplication of the Joy Baluch Bridge and the establishment of a joint electricity purchasing group.
SACOME President Carl Kavina praised Knol’s contributions,
“Under Rebecca’s leadership, SACOME has strengthened its role as a respected industry voice, delivering tangible results over the last decade.”
Nicola McFarlane will serve as interim CEO, bringing her experience from the Office of Hydrogen Power South Australia.
New Leadership in Sports and Legal Sectors
Adelaide Lightning, a prominent women’s basketball team, has appointed Melanie MacGillivray as CEO. MacGillivray’s extensive background in sports and media, including roles at Major League Soccer and the United Soccer Leagues, positions her well to lead the team.
In the legal sector, Lynch Meyer Lawyers has welcomed Sue Porter as a Senior Associate in its workplace relations team. Porter, a former HR professional and registered nurse, brings a unique perspective to industrial relations law, having retrained as a lawyer and gained admission to practice in South Australia.
Promotions and New Faces Across South Australia
Funds SA has announced a series of promotions within its investment team, highlighting the internal talent development. Cameron Sinclair has been promoted to Deputy Chief Investment Officer, while Gavin Bowden takes on the role of Director of Investment Strategy and Risk.
Silentium Defence has appointed Justina Gardiner as Head of Marketing and Communications. Gardiner’s extensive experience in brand strategy and stakeholder engagement is expected to drive the company’s growth as it continues to innovate in defense and commercial sectors.
In the creative industry, SAUCE. The Creative Agency has appointed Ryan Dayrit as Director of Client Services. Dayrit’s global experience in brand management and marketing solutions is anticipated to enhance the agency’s client offerings.
Finally, JPE Design Studio has welcomed Jennifer Forbes as a Landscape Associate, bringing her expertise in infrastructure and public realm projects to the Adelaide-based practice.
These appointments reflect a dynamic period of change and growth across South Australia’s key institutions, with leaders poised to drive innovation and strategic development in their respective fields.
