Professor John Evans has been appointed the inaugural Pro Vice-Chancellor of Curtin Dubai, following an extensive international search.
The position will provide leadership and management oversight in the ongoing development of Curtin University’s recently opened campus located in the Dubai International Academic City.
Professor Evans has extensive international experience as an academic leader and business manager through his roles as Dean of Campus for the University of Wollongong in Dubai, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Curtin Malaysia and most recently, Director of Curtin’s Asia Business Centre.
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry congratulated Professor Evans, saying his experience in international education, coupled with his strong background in economics and finance made him a clear choice for the role.
“Professor Evans’ knowledge of the education system in the United Arab Emirates and his leadership of Curtin Malaysia will position him well to lead the development of this exciting new campus,” Professor Terry said.
Professor Evans said he was very happy to be appointed to the role and delighted to be going to Dubai to lead the campus operation.
“I’m confident that my prior experiences in both Dubai and Malaysia will enable me to work effectively with a dedicated team in the development and success of Curtin Dubai,” Professor Evans said.
“Our aim is to position the campus as a centre of excellence in both teaching and research, and also in industry engagement.”
Professor Evans has a PhD and Master of Science in Finance from the University of Illinois, and a Master of Business in Accounting from Curtin University.
Curtin Dubai was officially opened in September 2017 and currently offers courses in mass communication, engineering, business, education and a MBA Global. Students are mainly drawn from the Middle East, the Indian Sub-Continent, Africa and Central Asia.
The Dubai Campus strengthens Curtin’s standing as a global university and a recognised international leader in research and education, as well as providing an opportunity for the University to develop collaborative research centres with key industry and international university partners in areas of strategic interest.
