Media leaders join UNSW

Former Sydney Morning Herald editor-in-chief Darren Goodsir and M&C Saatchi group operations director Amir Mireskandari have joined the UNSW External Relations leadership team.

The appointments are part of a strategic campaign to attract the very best academic and professional staff to the institution.

UNSW confirmed the hires last week. They follow the appointment of Ann Mossop from the Opera House as Strategic Events Director, and ex-Australia China Business Council Chief Executive Laurie Pearcey’s promotion to Pro-Vice-Chancellor International.

Goodsir comes to UNSW after leading The Herald’s transition to the digital era. He edited Australia’s leading news website, smh.com.au, with his team pioneering new ways of delivering online news.

Mireskandari has been responsible for streamlining Saatchi’s creative, strategy and production hub and is acknowledged as one of the few people in the sector who has run teams across digital, broadcast and print, following more than 17 years at agencies in Australia and the UK.

Vice President External Relations Fiona Docherty says both appointments bring a new breadth and depth of experience to the University’s External Relations team.

"We set out to attract exceptional individuals, professional leaders capable of helping the University achieve its bold and ambitious strategic plan," Ms Docherty says.

“Both Darren and Amir will bring invaluable insights into how social, mobile and other digital platforms can help UNSW bring to life the impact its education and research mission is having, in Australia and overseas.

“Their work across marketing and communications will help us connect with potential staff and students who want to join one of the most successful universities globally; and with partners who share our commitment to academic excellence in support of advancing a just society for all.”