John Gorman has announced his retirement after nine years’ service as Chief Financial Officer of Macquarie University. He will step down on 31 December 2016. John’s intention to retire has been known for some time, and he now feels ready to step down after delaying his final date several times at the University’s request.

Thanks to his dedication and hard work, the University remains in a strong position to meet its future financial challenges and deliver its strategic objectives over the coming years. During his tenure, John has expertly managed the financial growth and development of the University and its many activities. The Macquarie University Hospital, the Australian Hearing Hub and the new Library are among the many infrastructure projects financed under his guidance, alongside his stewardship of the University’s financial operations in a constantly evolving funding landscape.

Most notably, John played a key role in the University’s bond issue in 2010, making history as the first Australian university to raise funds in this way. The issue raised $250 million and set a precedent that has since been followed by the Universities of Sydney and Melbourne among others.

In addition to his work as CFO, he has also served on a number of controlled entities boards and has been committed to their growth and success. He will continue some of these directorships post-retirement. Meanwhile, work is underway to ensure a smooth transition of leadership with minimal disruption to financial services and the forthcoming annual budget process.

The Vice-Chancellor paid tribute to John’s work in an email announcing his retirement.

“John’s departure is a loss to this University and to those with whom he has worked. Throughout the development of Our University: A Framing of Futures and its subsequent implementation, his guidance was invaluable in ensuring that our vision was both aspirational and deliverable. With a strong commitment to this University and its mission, combined with a direct, yet supportive and humorous style, he is highly regarded amongst the Executive Group as a valued, wise and well-informed leader and colleague,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

“I thank John for his exceptional work over the past nine years. I wish him a peaceful, enjoyable and well-deserved retirement.”