The Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE) and Melbourne School for Professional and Continuing Education (MSPACE) have partnered on a new initiative that will enhance professional education at the University of Melbourne.
Launched on Tuesday 14 March 2023, the FBE Enterprise Specialists Network is a think-tank of industry experts, practitioners and leading academics who will share their knowledge, exchange ideas and offer robust industry perspectives that will shape the future direction of FBE’s professional and continuing education programs.
The network’s 38 inaugural members range from technical specialists to C-suite executives, and are drawn from international organisations based in Australia, Singapore, London and Hong Kong.
Operating under the guidance of Associate Professor Matthew Greenwood – Nimmo, Associate Dean (Engagement) at FBE, and Ms Tessa Shaw, Product Relationship Manager at MSPACE, the Enterprise Specialist Network will inform and inspire FBE’s executive education activities by tapping into a wealth of experience and high-level expertise that spans multiple business sectors.
Speaking at the Network’s launch, Associate Professor Greenwood-Nimmo outlined the Network’s strategic importance:
“The Enterprise Specialists Network will ensure that our programmes continue to address the most pressing needs of business and the wider community, and that our learners benefit from the highest quality of professional and continuing education,” he said.
Associate Professor Greenwood-Nimmo is also excited to be collaborating with a diverse group of specialists who will offer strong and varied expertise.
“Bringing together such talented and accomplished professionals is something FBE takes great pride in, and we're committed to encouraging continued and mutual learning from each other as we work towards our shared goal of pursuing excellence in professional education.”
Professor Simon Bell, Head of MSPACE, who also attended the launch, was keen to emphasise that establishing a network of enterprise specialists demonstrates just how serious the University is about forming strong connections with industry.
“Seeking industry relevance is crucial to producing continuing and professional education programmes that resonate with and benefit learners. MSPACE is committed to supporting this program and we look forward to learning and excelling together with the Faculty of Business and Economics and these network members,” said Professor Bell.
Mr Michael Vavakis is Chief Operating Officer at LendLease and one of the new Enterprise Specialists collaborating with FBE.
Speaking from London, Mr Vavakis emphasised that lifelong learning is an element of business success and that without it, a business leader is headed for a short-term trajectory.
“I am lucky enough to have worked in corporations for over 30 years, but being able to help shape the way corporations and academia come together is quite an honour – I am really excited about being part of this opportunity,” said Mr Vavakis.
The launch event served as a valuable initial platform to forge connections and bring together individuals from across the network to meet key stakeholders from FBE and MSPACE, and cultivate meaningful relationships.
