As announced by email and in the VC’s Town Hall in mid-February, the University is proceeding with the Professional Services Transformation (PST) program of work. During the consultation period there was strong endorsement for the objectives and design principles of PST and endorsement of the overall model and we thank all staff who contributed to the process. Key feedback themes were related to:

• Co-ordination of change
• Workload pressures
• Dependency on technology
• Career pathways
• Communication and greater access to information

There are complexities across the PST program of work with multiple dependencies to other Operating Plan areas of focus and activities being undertaken across the University. In response to this complexity, the PST program is phasing the various streams of work. The PST Program Team will ensure there is clear communication around the roadmap of work and engagement with other areas of focus throughout. Some of the key interdependencies are: Faculty models and the Academic leadership White Paper and Academic change proposals; the Students First and Focused Investment in Research  priorities and the interaction with Digital Transformation.

The PST Program Team, together with Executive Leads and Operational and Project Leads will be developing and consulting on new models of service throughout 2021. Details are available on the PST webpage.

Staff feedback through consultation supported the coordinated release of workplace change proposals to maximise opportunities for current staff.  It’s therefore anticipated that there will be change proposals for the areas of Higher Degree Research, Research Innovation and External Engagement released for consultation in mid to late April.

Discussions have started with General Managers and Executive Managers around Faculty, Department and Portfolio professional services models. Initial scoping work for shared services is also underway with many senior staff across the University providing input on the model and the types of services that may be included. There are many decisions yet to be made, but we are on track to meet our anticipated timeframes for 2021.

To stay informed about the PST program of work, email PST@mq.edu.au to register for regular email updates. You can also look out for invitations over the coming months to join PST Webinars.  As always, information will be provided on the PST webpage and any queries can be sent to the PST email inbox: PST@mq.edu.au.