November 23, 2022

UOW announces appointment of new Chief Operating Officer

Former finance executive Alan Corr to assume role in December

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is delighted to announce the appointment of Alan Corr to the role of Chief Operating Officer. Mr Corr will join the University on Monday, 5 December.

He brings a wealth of experience from across the finance and professional services sectors in the Asia-Pacific Region.

Originally from Ireland, Mr Corr qualified as a Chartered Accountant in London before relocating to Australia. A two-year secondment in Hong Kong with Macquarie Bank turned into more than a decade in the Asia Pacific region.

Mr Corr spent 15 years as a senior leader in the Banking and Financial Services Group at Macquarie Bank, followed by five years as Chief Financial and Operating Officer with Fidelity International. For the past five years, Mr Corr has been in the role of Chief Financial and Operating Officer Asia Pacific at law firm Clifford Chance.

In his roles at these organisations he has set the vision and strategic direction across finance, human resources, operations, technology, procurement, and corporate services functions.

Mr Corr’s ties to the Illawarra region are strong. His Wollongong-born wife grew up in Keiraville and they have had a home in Berry for 20 years, where they now live with their family.

Results driven and progressive, Mr Corr said he was delighted to assume the new role and looked forward to working alongside the executive team to help deliver the University’s aims and strategic vision. As COO, he will be responsible for the overall financial strategy as well as the people and culture strategy of the University and its controlled entities, UOW Global Enterprises and UOW Pulse.

“I am delighted to be joining UOW’s executive team and to be taking on the role of COO at a pivotal time in the higher education sector,” Mr Corr said. “My approach to leadership has always been based on collaboration, and creating an inclusive, engaged and agile team environment.

“Wollongong holds a special place in my family’s heart, and I look forward to helping guide UOW’s commitment to progress, accountability and excellence, and to helping the University position itself for success in an environment of rapid change.”

Professor Patricia M. Davidson, UOW Vice-Chancellor and President, said Mr Corr would bring a wealth of experience and a passion for growth to the organisation.

“We are excited to bring Alan’s extensive experience to UOW, and to be able to harness his strategic mindset and his desire for collaboration,” Professor Davidson said.

“Alan is passionate about building an inclusive and interactive workplace culture. He believes in driving continuous improvement for stakeholders, with decision-making informed by data analysis, openness and transparency. 

“In the role of COO, Alan will be a valued member of the executive team and will help the University to achieve its strategic goals and inspire stakeholders across the institution to strive for improvement in all areas.”