E73 - Change Leadership In Higher Education - Podcast with Vice Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell

The Inner Game of Change

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Welcome to a special episode ; The Outer Game of Change. In these unique episodes, I am joined by leaders and executives who drive change and shape the future of their organizations. We listen to their unique insights, explore how they perceive change, and uncover what is simmering in their minds.
Today, I am thrilled to have with me Professor Theo Farrell, the 7th Vice-Chancellor and President of La Trobe University here in Australia. Professor Farrell has a distinguished career in academia and research, having held leadership positions at top universities around the world. He is an author, and renowned advocate for academic excellence, inclusivity, and transformative change. Most importanly, I find Theo to be a great human.

In this episode, we will dive into the dynamics of change leadership, exploring how transformative forces like AI are reshaping higher education. We discuss the evolving nature of academia, the challenges and opportunities of integrating advanced technologies, and what it takes to lead an institution through such significant transformation.

With his extensive background in both strategic leadership and research, Professor Farrell offers unique insights into the future of higher education and how universities can adapt to and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
I am grateful to have Professor Farrell chatting with me today.
About Theo Farrell
Professor Theo Farrell commenced as the 7th Vice-Chancellor and President of La Trobe University in February 2024. He brings a deep commitment to advancing academic excellence, building inclusive communities, forging external partnerships, and leading transformative change.
Prior to joining La Trobe, Professor Farrell held a number of leadership roles including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Students), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education), and Executive Dean of Law, Humanities and the Arts, all at the University of Wollongong, and Dean of Arts and Social Sciences at City, University of London. From 2006 to 2016, he held a chair in online learning at King’s College London. At UOW, City and King’s, Professor Farrell led numerous initiatives to develop research capacities, innovate learning and teaching, and enhance student experience.
Professor Farrell has held ten UK research council awards. His most recent book, Unwinnable: Britain’s War in Afghanistan (Vintage 2021), was shortlisted for three national book awards and selected book of the year by The Sunday Times. Professor Farrell is a champion of real-world impact from academic research. A leading expert on the conflict in Afghanistan, he acted as strategic advisor to the UK government and the International Security Assistance Force in Kabul, and participated in track II talks with the Taliban.
Professor Farrell is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences (UK), Fellow of the Royal Society of New South Wales, Visiting Professor at King’s College London, and past President of the British International Studies Association.
Contact Info
LinkedIn
linkedin.com/in/theo-farrell-35698b1b3

Ali Juma
@The Inner Game of Change podcast

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1. Leading Change in Higher Education (00:00:00)

2. Navigating Change in Higher Education (00:08:30)

3. Creating Sustainable Change Through Vision (00:20:10)

4. AI in Higher Ed Middle Management (00:26:25)