UNSW appoints Paul Andon Dean of UNSW Business School

Professor Andon's career at UNSW has been marked by a consistent focus on educational innovation and strategy. Prior to this appointment, he served as the interim Co-Dean of the Business School. His previous roles include Senior Deputy Dean (Education and Student Experience) and Head of the School of Accounting, Auditing & Taxation. This long history within the faculty has given him a comprehensive understanding of its operations and a strong track record in leadership. UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Attila Brungs highlighted Andon's impactful work in developing research programs, driving educational innovation, and building strong industry partnerships as key factors in his appointment.

A Professor of Accounting, Andon's academic and research interests lie at the intersection of business education, financial management, and the growing influence of technology and artificial intelligence. His work often examines the human element of accounting, exploring how practices like performance measurement and auditing affect behavior and accountability. He has been a proponent for integrating artificial intelligence into business education and has led significant curriculum reforms across both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. He is a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

The appointment of Professor Andon comes after a period of transitional leadership at the Business School. He steps into the role most recently held on an interim basis by himself and previously by Professor Frederik Anseel, who was formally appointed Dean in mid-2024 after also serving in an interim capacity. Andon's selection from a global pool of candidates signals a strategic choice for continuity and proven internal leadership to guide the school forward. His established presence is expected to provide stability while also driving a forward-thinking agenda.

In accepting the position, Professor Andon stated it was a privilege to lead the faculty during a time of significant change in higher education and the business world. He emphasized the responsibility of a leading business school to shape better practices and inform policy. His stated agenda involves working closely with colleagues and industry partners to "reimagine business education for a rapidly evolving economy" and to deliver practical policy impact. This includes continuing initiatives like the UNSW Tax and Business Advisory service, which focuses on social justice and community impact.