Suicide Prevention Australia chief executive and former IRT boss Nieves Murray has been appointed as one of UOW’s deputy chancellors. Photo: University of Wollongong.
Well-known Illawarra business and community leader Nieves Murray has been elected as deputy chancellor of her alma mater, the University of Wollongong.
A member of the university’s governing body since 2013, Ms Murray will succeed Robert Ryan in the role and serve alongside fellow deputy chancellor Warwick Shanks.
Ms Murray said she was deeply honoured to be elected to the position, as the university approached its 50th anniversary in 2025.
“This milestone presents a unique opportunity for us to reflect on our achievements and to envision an even brighter future for the University of Wollongong,” she said.
“At the same time, the Australian Universities Accord offers us a framework to enhance our strategic goals: empowering students for their future, creating knowledge for a better world, and making a difference for our communities.
“Together, we will continue to build on our strengths and embrace the opportunities ahead to shape a vibrant and impactful future for UOW.”
From 2006 to 2018, Ms Murray was chief executive of IRT Group and has served on numerous boards in a range of industries including financial services, market research, primary health, retirement housing and children’s services.
She was named Illawarra Business Leader of the Year in 2012 and again in 2016, when she was also presented with the Wollongong Citizen of the Year Award. She was named one of Australia’s 100 Most Influential Women by the Australian Financial Review in 2013.
Currently, Ms Murray is chief executive of Suicide Prevention Australia, the national peak body for suicide prevention, and chair of Beehive Industries, a social enterprise whose mission is to address loneliness and social isolation by providing meaningful employment and engagement for people at risk of isolation.
UOW chancellor Michael Still said Ms Murray was an exceptional leader and an excellent choice as deputy chancellor.
“She brings extensive experience in the human services and corporate sectors to the role,” Mr Still said.
“As a long-serving member of the University of Wollongong Council, she has a thorough understanding of the achievements and strengths of UOW and its people, and an in-depth knowledge of the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Interim vice-chancellor and president Professor John Dewar welcomed Ms Murray’s appointment and said her extensive leadership experience and deep connection to the UOW community made her an exceptional choice for the position.
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