Changes to the ANU Council: New and departing members

18 Jun 2024

Changes to the ANU Council

As The Australian National University (ANU) Council transitions into a new chapter, it extends thanks to Pro-Chancellor Naomi Flutter for her dedicated service and welcomes new appointments to the team.

After a decade of service, Naomi Flutter steps down from her role, paving the way for current external council member Alison Kitchen to take on the Pro-Chancellor responsibility.

Rob Whitfield joins as an external Council member, while Tanya Hosch has been re-appointed to continue her impactful contributions. 

 

Celebrating Naomi Flutter’s contributions

Naomi Flutter's time with the ANU Council has been marked by extraordinary dedication and numerous achievements. 

Naomi, who joined the Council in July 2014, has been pivotal in guiding the University through various milestones. 

Over the years, she has worked alongside three Vice-Chancellors and two Chancellors, including Professor the Hon Gareth Evans and current Chancellor the Hon Julie Bishop.

"Naomi's contributions to the University are immeasurable,” said the Chancellor. 

“Her calm, considered and sage advice has been instrumental in navigating the University through challenging times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Her leadership in establishing the Kambri Scholars program, which has opened doors for Indigenous students, is a remarkable legacy.”

Naomi's involvement extended beyond the Council as she served on numerous committees, including the Finance Committee, Campus Planning Committee, Honorary Committee and the ANU Foundation Board. 

Her tireless work has significantly impacted the University's strategic direction, financial stability and community engagement.

As Pro-Chancellor, she conferred thousands of degrees, inspiring graduates and fostering a sense of achievement and pride within the ANU community with boundless love and enthusiasm.

 

Introducing new and continuing Council Members

Alison Kitchen, the new Pro-Chancellor, brings a wealth of experience from her distinguished career in auditing and governance. A former National Chairman of KPMG Australia, Alison has held numerous leadership roles and has been an active member of the ANU Foundation Board since 2018. Just last week, she was awarded an AM in the King’s Birthday Honours. 

Rob Whitfield, newly appointed as an external Council member, has an extensive banking, finance, and risk management background with 30 years at Westpac Banking Corporation and senior leadership roles, including CEO of the Institutional Bank and Chief Risk Officer.

Reappointed as an external Council member, Tanya Hosch continues to advocate for inclusion and social policy. As the Executive General Manager at the Australian Football League (AFL), Tanya has championed Indigenous issues, gender equality and diversity. 

Chancellor Julie Bishop expressed her enthusiasm for the new and continuing members.

"We are delighted to welcome Alison, Rob and Tanya to their roles on the Council. Their diverse expertise and commitment to the University's mission will be instrumental in driving our strategic goals and ensuring robust governance," she said.

For more information about the ANU Council and its members, visit ANU Council