Unitec, the largest Institute of Technology in the country has reappointed Dr Rick Ede as Chief Executive for another four years.
Since his appointment five years ago, he has helped refocus Unitec towards being an institution that delivers world-class vocational and applied professional education and training built on a foundation of work-integrated learning.
In addition, Unitec’s ability to reinvest in its people and facilities has been significantly boosted, along with an increased commitment to health, safety and environment.
Constructive engagement
Dr Ede has been instrumental in fostering community and industry engagement. Under his leadership, innovative collaborations have seen IBM opening their only New Zealand based delivery centre on campus (bringing employment opportunities for students with major national and international companies) and the development of the country’s only cyber-security research laboratory in conjunction with Japan’s NICT.
“This is what Unitec is all about; building partnerships that will provide opportunities for our students, the institution, our community and the wider Auckland region, and ensure we are relevant into the future,” Dr Ede said.
More recently a Memorandum of Understanding with CMC Limited, India, has seen the launch of two advanced vocational education programmes, in India, aimed at creating highly employable graduates in the IT and construction sectors (Indian Newslink, June 15, 2013).
Inspiring leadership
“We are pleased Rick will be continuing in this position for another term to lead Unitec through an anticipated period of transformation,” Chair of the Unitec Board, Ted Van Arkel said.
“Unitec is already starting to realise some of the benefits of the growing local and international relationships fostered under Rick’s leadership including notable brands such as IBM, NICT and CMC.”
Over the last year, Unitec won the ‘Sustainable Business Network Trailblazer Not for Profit Award,’ a ‘CAANZ Media Award for its campaign “We make the people who make it.” Unitec was also recognised by the Office of Ethnic Affairs, IPANZ Public Sector Excellence Awards and EEO Trust Life and Work Awards for their work in building an inclusive environment.
Valuable credentials
Dr Ede joined Unitec in April 2008. He has a postgraduate (Master’s) degree and a Doctorate in chemistry from Waikato University. He has provided consultancy services to industry and educational organisations in Asia and North America. He is an alumnus of the London Business School, a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Chairperson of the Metro Group, comprising the six major Institutes of Technology in New Zealand, working collaboratively to drive economic performance through efficient and effective education provision.
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Julz Britnell is Corporate Communications Manager (Marketing & Communications) at Unitec based in Mt Albert Campus, Auckland. Unitec is the Sponsor of the ‘Business Excellence in Innovation’ Category of the Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards 2013.
