Samantha Liston appointed new Chief Human Resources Officer

After an extensive competitive search the University of Sydney has announced the appointment of Samantha Liston to the position of Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Ms Liston will take up the role on 22 January 2024.

“Samantha has extensive experience driving transformational change combined with decades of industrial relations leadership in a range of large and complex organisations. This experience will be an asset to the University and the Human Resources function as we work towards the realisation of our Sydney in 2032 strategic aspirations,” said Vice-President (Operations), Stephen Phillips.

“Samantha is passionate about high-trust, high-accountability leadership and puts staff wellbeing at the heart of everything she does. In addition to her depth of strategic experience, Samantha is well-versed in improving systems and processes to support compliance and make organisations better places to work and places that work better. I am looking forward to her bringing her diverse talents to bear on the challenges and opportunities we face here at Sydney.”

Ms Liston currently works as a Director of People Projects Group and previously held roles at iCare, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and Seven West Media.

“I’m excited to join a purpose-driven organisation like the University of Sydney where I can play a part in supporting world-class research and a transformational student experience. I am passionate about getting the best out of people and teams, and driving cultural change to help organisations and their people to achieve their goals," said Ms Liston.

Marshall Craddock will continue as Interim CHRO until Ms Liston commences in the role and will then return to his position as Director of Organisational Development.

“On behalf of the University, I would like to acknowledge the considerable contributions Marshall has made as Interim CHRO over the last seven months. During a period of ambitious transformational change at the University, Marshall has exemplified collegial and empathetic leadership that puts people first,” said Mr Phillips.