Dear colleagues

I regret to inform you that Professor Mark Gabbott has advised me that he does not wish to renew his position as Executive Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, which is due to expire in August this year. Mark’s decision to depart the University comes after eight years in his role, during which time he has made a lasting contribution to his faculty and the organisation as a whole.

I am particularly grateful to Mark not only for his stewardship of his faculty, but for his support and guidance of Macquarie International during his time as Pro Vice-Chancellor (International). His insight and management of that division at the time provided stability and direction and allowed us to navigate the challenges of international student recruitment at a difficult time. His contributions to the Executive Group have always been thoughtful and informed, and he will be missed among the leadership of the University.

The Faculty of Business and Economics saw much change under Mark’s leadership, leading to a period of stability in recent years. Following the University-wide restructure from divisions to faculties, Mark brought together the newly formed Faculty of Business and Economics and, under his leadership it has become a strong, effective and student-focused operation. His dedication to the academic enterprise and the importance of learning and teaching has allowed the faculty to flourish and, most recently, his vision and commitment to the long-term future of the University enabled the formation of the Centre for the Health Economy, uniting his faculty with our new academic health sciences centre.

As we begin to realise our long-term vision for the University, there will be further change for the faculty in the coming months and years. Mark’s view is that this change should be initiated by a new leader in order to provide continuity throughout. I share this view and we have agreed that Mark will vacate his role on 17 March 2016 and take some time out before leaving the University.

Mark has informed his staff and relevant stakeholders to help ensure that the faculty and the University enter Session 1 in a strong position and with the minimum of disruption.

I thank Mark for his service to the University and I wish him every success in his future endeavours.

Sincerely,

Professor S Bruce Dowton
Vice-Chancellor