Former Lord Mayor Sally Capp picks up plum university job after leaving Town Hall

Former Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp planned to return to the private sector after her time at Town Hall, but has made a different call on her future.

Former Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp has picked up her first job since leaving Town Hall six weeks ago – appointed a Vice-Chancellor’s Fellow at the University of Melbourne.

Ms Capp quit Melbourne City Council after six years in the top job, handing over the reins to her deputy Nick Reece.

At the time of her exit, Ms Capp said she had “no plans” for her post-council career apart from a commitment to return to her commercial roots.

“I’m going to return to the private sector,’’ she told the Herald Sun in June.

“I’m from the private sector and I’ve loved this experience in government.’’

But Ms Capp has pivoted to academia, starting the two-year fellowship this week after a winter break in Europe.

Former Lord Mayor of Melbourne Sally Capp with University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Professor Duncan Maskell. Picture: University of Melbourne.

The new job is to tackle a program of work for the Business and Economics faculty, and the wider uni community, the university said.

Cr Reece is also a Melbourne Uni employee, holding the position of Director of Enterprise Strategy and Projects in the School of Government.

In a statement, Ms Capp said she was delighted with the new role.

“I am looking forward to making a positive contribution to the Faculty of Business and Economics and the university over the next two years,” she said.

Vice-Chancellor Duncan Maskell said Ms Capp had made “an enormous contribution” to Melbourne during the six years that as Lord Mayor.

Ms Capp was Lord Mayor for six years. Picture: David Caird

Ms Capp and husband Andrew Sutherland went on a European break after her time at Town Hall ended. Picture: David Crosling

“Sally was an outstanding leader who always maintained a strong advocacy for the people and the many unique elements that make Melbourne one of the world’s great cities.

“This was never more evident than during the global pandemic when Sally steered Melbourne through some of its darkest times.

“Sally has also combined a long and successful business career with her involvement in several charities and not-for-profit organisations.’’