Professor Andy Marks eyeing politics after WSU replaces him with Geoff Lee
A surprise leadership shake-up at Western Sydney University has left one of the top bosses looking for a new job on Monday morning.
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A surprise shake-up at the top of Western Sydney University has left a leading academic looking for a new job on Monday morning.
Professor Andy Marks, the vice-president of public affairs and partnerships at WSU, on Thursday confirmed he would be replaced by former NSW corrections minister Geoff Lee, adding that the news came as “a little bit of a surprise”.
His last day at the university is today (Friday).
Prof Marks has been a loud and vocal spokesman for the University and Western Sydney during his more than 12 years at the university.
It is understood his high profile may have earnt the displeasure of new WSU vice chancellor George Williams.
“For the short term I am back to being a drummer in a rock band,” Prof Marks said. Before his university career he toured with alternative rockers The Vanilla Chainsaws and Sydney band Crow ahead of a late career move into academia.
But a solo role as a drummer is unlikely to last long, with Mr Marks looking to swap roles with his replacement Mr Lee and move into politics.
“I am a political tragic so whether it is behind the scenes or in a leadership role somewhere I would love to make a contribution like that,” he said. “It is exciting.”
And he has vowed to keep championing Western Sydney, which is a passion he shares with his successor Mr Lee, who was MP for Parramatta for more than a decade.
“The role has been expanded,” Mr Lee said. “We will be looking at how we position ourselves to help the region and drive leadership.
“We also need to look at how we promote the university to future students and tell their stories, there are so many fantastic things happening here.”
Prof Williams said Prof Lee had been working at the university in the School of Business since 2022, following his retirement from Parliament.
“This new role is integral to the university’s plans and ambitions for the future,” Prof Williams said.
“He is deeply embedded in the Western Sydney community and is renowned as an energetic and driven leader who is unceasing in his advocacy for our community.
“Geoff’s passion will help ensure we continue to drive our university forward and seize upon new opportunities in Western Sydney as they emerge.”
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Originally published as Professor Andy Marks eyeing politics after WSU replaces him with Geoff Lee
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