University of Melbourne appoints new Chief Operating Officer
The University of Melbourne has appointed Mr Paul Axup as its new Chief Operating Officer and Vice-President (Administration & Finance).
Mr Axup is a senior executive with over 25 years’ experience working in complex businesses at both public and private companies. Most recently, Mr Axup was the Group Chief Financial Officer at Programmed, a leading provider of operations and maintenance services across the education, health, infrastructure, manufacturing, transport and mining sectors. Prior to joining Programmed, Mr Axup held a number of senior leadership roles at Aurecon, Lendlease and PwC.
At the University, Mr Axup will be responsible for the management of the Chief Operating Officer’s portfolio, which includes finance, property, technology, legal and risk management, student and academic support, research and innovation services, operational performance, business services and sustainability. Mr Axup will also lead the University’s ongoing recovery and rebuild from the effects of the pandemic.
Mr Axup’s appointment follows a comprehensive search which attracted a number of high-quality candidates. He replaces Mr Allan Tait, who announced earlier this year he is leaving the University to pursue other interests and opportunities following a significant contribution to the institution over two decades.
Mr Axup starts on 1 August and will join the University Executive Leadership Team, reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Duncan Maskell.
Professor Maskell said: “This is a critical leadership role for the University of Melbourne and I am delighted to be welcoming Paul Axup to the executive team. Paul’s leadership and experience driving transformation and growth in complex, multi-sector operating environments, together with his expertise in operational excellence, will be an asset for the University.”
Mr Axup said: “This is an exciting opportunity for me to join one of Australia’s finest institutions. I can’t wait to get started and continue the work that is already underway, including the recovery from the global pandemic and the strategic programs of work designed to support the University’s Advancing Melbourne 2030 strategy.”