Alumni Matters June 2010

Alumni Matters June 2010 1

Alumni mAtters

For us, renaming ourselves the Faculty of Business and Economics is much more than just a name change. It is recognition of the fact that our Faculty has a key role to play in contributing to the business and economic strength of the nation, the region and the world through a commitment to excellence in lifelong learning.

Behind our new name lies a whole raft of new activity and, we believe, future successes. Indeed, this year will see the first students from the Melbourne Model graduate, and we hope many of them will continue their education at the Graduate School of Business and Economics.

In March, the University’s Committee of Convocation went through an election

process. We are pleased to announce that Caroline Ralph, Andrew McElhinney and Alana Paterson have been voted in as new representatives from the Faculty of Business and Economics. The mission of the committee is to represent the interests of University of Melbourne graduates to the University Council.

Our BCom students continue to do us proud. In this edition of Alumni Matters you’ll read about some of their extraordinary achievements, such as one team’s success in winning first place in the Marshall International Case Competition at the University of Southern California (see p12). Achievements such as these are evidence that our students are indeed world-class.

Last month our top-achieving students were recognised at the annual Dean’s Awards ceremony. This year our keynote speaker at the ceremony, Victoria Racing Club’s Chief Executive and alumnus Dale Monteith (BCom 1976), caused quite a stir by bringing the Melbourne Cup to the ceremony!

Our 2009 Bachelor of Commerce Valedictorian, Carolyn Deller, was the student speaker at the ceremony. Carolyn was an outstanding student who completed her Honours year in 2009 and specialised in accounting (see p3 for more on the Dean’s Awards ceremony).

UMCAS President’s report 2

Melbourne Cup comes to Commerce 3

A Celebration of Business and Economics at Melbourne 4

Recent events 6

Career mentoring 8

Alumni Relations team 8

Leadership changes 9

Postcards 10

Fitzgerald Chair Luncheon 12

Donor Roll of Honour 13

Honours and awards 13

Subsidies and Scholarships 14

Alumni Seminar Series – Hong Kong and China 15

Calendar of events 16

June 2010 www.fbe.unimelb.edu.au/alumni/

It gives me great pleasure to reflect on the achievements of the Faculty as I write this update. As well as the undergraduate school for which we are so renowned, we are seeing increased international recognition of the new graduate school and have some very exciting future plans.

in this issue

Faculty of Business and Economics Launched

Dr James Riady (right) with the Chancellor, The Hon Alex Chernov AO QC, at the Celebration of Business and Economics @ Melbourne launch

on 22 February, see page 13

continued on page 2

Subsidies and Scholarships at the Graduate School of Business and Economics,

see page 14

Pictured at the official opening of the new Faculty of Business and Economics building, from left: The Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC; Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, Professor Glyn Davis AC; Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, The Hon Alex Chernov

AO QC; Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, Professor Margaret Abernethy

a celebration

However, my personal highlight was the award of two inaugural Commerce Opportunity Bursaries, created through the generosity of an alumnus who recently – and anonymously – gave $1 million to facilitate transformative education at the University of Melbourne.

Like everyone at the Faculty, I am exceptionally grateful for this generous leadership gift. We all have high hopes that, through their actions, the students who have received these bursaries will inspire other alumni and friends to support the outstanding talent at the Faculty of Business and Economics – and to help change the world through a great education.

February 22 marked a turning point in the history of the Faculty and the University with the official opening of our new building by the

Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce. The event, dubbed ‘A Celebration of Business and Economics @ Melbourne’, also launched the Graduate School of Business and Economics, the Commerce Opportunity Bursaries, the return of the Sidney Myer Chair of Commerce to the Faculty and the endowment of a Chair in Asian Economics and Business by alumnus Dr James Riady (see story on p13).

It gave me an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come in the 85 years since our founder, Douglas Copland, opened the Faculty in 1924. Copland focused on the professional needs of business and the vital link between education and industry, demonstrated by Sidney Myer’s transformational gift in 1926. The University recognised the gift by creating the Sidney Myer Chair in the Faculty, which was held by Copland while he was Dean until 1944.

The new building at 198 Berkeley Street is symbolic of where we are going as a business and economics school. It provides a strong connection to industry – our offices and classrooms look towards the city; and it symbolises our connection to our founders and what they envisaged for business education.

With this in mind, the Faculty of Business and Economics is now embarking on a journey in new directions. Yet our vision remains true to our founder’s goals – that we are a public-spirited University; and our charter now – as in the past – is to improve the economic and social well-being of those around us.

I look forward to working with you in achieving our vision in the years to come.

Professor Margaret Abernethy Dean, Faculty of Business and Economics

Dean’s update continued from page 1

2 Faculty of Business and Economics

As you will have read in the Dean’s report, the official opening of our new building was a landmark event in the history of the Faculty. The building is simply amazing – not least the basement lecture theatre, which seats nearly 400 people in comfort. If you are ever near Parkville, we invite you to take a look.

To oldies like me (who graduated more than 20 years ago!) it may at first seem odd that the Faculty is ‘off-campus’ in the traditional sense. But the University’s extraordinary growth over recent decades has made this campus expansion inevitable. And the FBE building – affectionately known as ‘The Spot’ – is the centrepiece of the University ‘business district’, in close proximity to the Law building and the Melbourne Business School.

The new building is consistent with our focus – led by our Dean, Professor Margaret Abernethy – to build the Faculty of Business and Economics and the Graduate School of Business and Economics into the leading business and economics school in the region.

As we go to print there are a number of upcoming events that you may want to note. The highlight of the UMCAS calendar – our Annual Reunion Dinner held in the Ormond

College Dining Hall – is on 15 July 2010.

Our speaker at this event is Tom Elliott, who you may have heard on his 3AW show, ‘Tom Elliott’s Weekend Break’. Tom is the founder of MM&E Capital, a Melbourne-based hedge fund. I’ve heard Tom speak a few times and he is interesting, articulate, informed and not afraid to express his opinions – an A-grader you do not want to miss.

We have a few Young Alumni events coming up in June, August and October – see the Calendar of Events on page 16 for details.

We have recently awarded the 2010 UMCAS Leadership Scholarships. Each year we award scholarships to two final-year Commerce students, thanks to the generous support of alumni donors. Eligibility requirements have been restructured to reflect a greater focus on leadership and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement, rather than being awarded predominantly on academic merit.

This year the calibre of applicants was very high making the final decision a difficult one. We are pleased to announce BCom students Maeve Kennedy and Tian Yang as the 2010 recipients.

These scholarships are entirely funded through donations from alumni. If you are interested in contributing please contact the Advancement and Marketing Unit (details on the back page of this newsletter).

Finally, thanks to all of you who have put your hand up to be a mentor in 2010. Our mentoring initiative goes from strength to strength, and we now have in the order of 160 mentors for our students. This is a great way that the graduate body can help the Faculty and its students at a grassroots level (see story on p8).

There are many ways to stay in touch with us, including attending events or signing up to receive the e-newsletter for alumni, eComm. We hope to hear from you soon.

Ross Cameron President, UMCAS

There has been plenty going on at the Faculty of Business and Economics in the past six months or so. On the January 1, the Faculty became the Faculty of Business and Economics and the Graduate School became the Graduate School of Business and Economics. The new identities reflect the Faculty’s ongoing commitment to building a world-class business school and providing additional reinforcement to its graduate school programs under the Melbourne Model.

UMCAS President’s report

Alumni Matters 3

Dale generously brought along the 2010 Melbourne Cup, a trophy symbolising one of the highest achievements in horse racing. Following the awards presentations, attendees were able to have photographs taken with the iconic Cup.

An inspiring speaker, Dale advised the audience to “seek empowerment from those around you and aim to empower those around you.” He stressed that no one should ever be afraid to speak their mind or allow a fear of making a mistake to hold them back.

He also counselled our high-achieving students to follow their dreams, but not to let working hard get in the way of life.

“Don’t let work become 24/7. Take time to smell the roses, to keep balance in your life.”

Dale’s career began with his first job at the Melbourne Racing Club, which he landed after telling the University Careers Centre that he liked horses. In 1991 he was appointed Chief Executive at the age of just 35.

“In the years ahead I urge you to seek out mentors to help you on your journey. Be prepared to do anything to get the job done. Aim high – even if you achieve half of what you aim for it’ll be more than if you don’t aim high.”

The Dean, Professor Margaret Abernethy, opened the evening by saying that the event is always a highlight of her year. “We get to celebrate excellence and that’s what this Faculty is all about.”

Worthy winners

In recognition of our teaching staff and their outstanding contributions to student learning, the Dean’s Awards for Excellence in Teaching went to Associate Professor Angela Paladino, Department of Management and Marketing, and Dr Nikos Nikiforakis, Department of Economics. The Dean’s Award for Excellence in Tutoring was awarded to Valerie Contronei-Baird, Department of Management and Marketing.

On a night recognising outstanding student achievement, it was fitting that the student speaker was Carolyn Deller, 2009 Bachelor of Commerce Valedictorian. Carolyn completed her Honours year in 2009. She began her degree whilst working full time as an Accounting cadet at KPMG. A talented and dedicated student, Carolyn participated in case studies, appeared on the Dean’s Honours list several times and won many awards. Carolyn encouraged students to make the most of their time at Melbourne and be all that they could be.

Our high-achieving students were well represented, with many scholarships, awards and honours presented by our generous donors and sponsors to their deserving recipients.

Dale Monteith, Associate Professor Angela Paladino and Dr Anish Nagpal

with the Melbourne Cup

Professor Margaret Abernethy personally awarded a certificate to each prize and

scholarship recipient at the Dean’s Awards ceremony

Melbourne Cup comes to Commerce

Victoria Racing Club Chief Executive and BCom alumnus Dale Monteith was the keynote speaker at the Dean’s Awards on Thursday 8 April.


of Business and Economics at MelbourneAn evening of unforgettable events on 22 February marked the launch of the Faculty of Business and Economics and its ‘New Directions’, a strategic agenda that outlines a renewed focus on lifelong learning, community engagement and research.

The launch kicked off with the official opening of the new Faculty of Business and Economics Building by Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, Governor General of Australia. The new building, affectionately known as ‘The Spot’, is the only 5 star green building in any Victorian university, and has received an Australian Excellence award from the Australian Green Building Council.

The Dean, Professor Margaret Abernethy, said the new building signifies where the Faculty is heading as a business and economics school.

“We want to create a world-class business school offering undergraduate, graduate and executive education, renowned for its excellence in teaching, academic research and knowledge transfer,” she said.

The opening of the new building was followed by an extraordinary celebratory dinner held in a marquee on University Square, where Professor Abernethy shared her ideas for the Faculty’s ‘New Directions’ with 250 distinguished alumni and friends.

Years of hard work and generations of contributions have created the solid foundation that the Faculty is building on today. Professor Abernethy believes that the Faculty is now ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow.

“We are poised to strengthen our position as the leading provider of business and economics education in the region. We are undertaking a restructure and a refocus of our Faculty. We are seeking to put in place a structure that supports lifelong learning in business and economics.

“To deliver this, we need to rethink the way we do business. We need to meet the needs of not just those of the millennial generation but also deliver to Generation X and the Baby Boomers. Our undergraduate, graduate and executive education programs must have an integrated curriculum, which provides the basis that allows participants to redefine how to do business, to rethink their role in society,” she said.

Engagement with business, government and the wider community

Professor Abernethy reflected on the vision of the Faculty’s founder, Douglas Copland,

and re-emphasised the importance of the link between education and the needs of business and government.

“From its very beginnings, the Faculty offered programs that were designed to meet the needs of business at the time. Those who came after Copland also held his vision of business education.

“Demand comes from the constant change we face – in business, in government and in the community sector. New skills must be learned; leaders want to be ahead of the curve so they can identify the next set of problems and the solutions that will help them create value for their organisations and the nation.

“Our intention is to engage business, government and the wider community with our newly formed Business and Economics Board and the Foundation for Business and Economics, to further strengthen our domestic and international links,” she said.

The Marquee on University Square where the dinner was held

250 distinguished alumni and friends of the Faculty celebrated the launch at dinner

a celebration

Alumni Matters 5

“The new direction will help ensure the Faculty is recognised as a national and regional leader in business and economics education.”

Highlights of the evening included the announcement of the new James Riady Chair, supported by a $1.5m donation to the Faculty from alumnus Dr James Riady, to foster research into Asian business and economics (see story on p13).

The event also provided a significant opportunity for alumni to meet with many past academics from the Faculty, including former deans Professor Ross Williams and Associate Professor Robert Clift.

During the evening, guests were addressed by BCom (2007) graduate and recipient of an Australian at Large Rhodes Scholarship, Daniel Norman. Daniel departs in September for Oxford, where he hopes to read for a Masters of Development Economics.

Daniel reflected on his first job as a 15-year-old mail boy at the old JBWere & Sons, running mail and “some cheques with a lot of zeroes” around Collins Street. He described how he had the fortune of visiting the trading floor on his final day there.

“After witnessing the intensity and the focus of the brokers, and the incredible view of the Melbourne skyline, my ambitions for a career in finance were crystallised.”

Daniel thanked the Faculty for assisting him financially in undertaking his Honours degree in Finance in 2007 and for providing “a truly world class platform for professional education”.

“I also want to thank the corporate world, on behalf of all students, for taking on graduates each year and providing the sometimes troublesome and fickle Generation Y with the essential training and development that allows us to build successful careers and make a difference,” he said.

“The interplay between the tertiary and commercial sector, and the accompanying diversity that a truly international University brings, creates boundless opportunities.”

As for future aspirations, among other things Daniel would like to assist in the promotion of financial literacy – particularly at high school level. To this end he is already giving back to his own school, to assist with developing economics and business programs.

Education is the greatest opportunity

Another generous contribution of $1 million from an anonymous donor, matched with funds from the Faculty, led to the establishment of the Commerce Opportunity Bursary. The Faculty will award two bursaries each year to two Bachelor of Commerce students who have experienced disadvantage during their secondary schooling.

Mr Jonathan Yoon and Ms Sandhya Manchikanti, both first year undergraduate students, are the two inaugural recipients of the Bursaries.

To Jonathan, being in University is all about discovering new paths in life. “I am still uncertain about what career I want to pursue, be it an accountant, a financial trader, an investment banker or even an entrepreneur. By undertaking the Bachelor of Commerce, I know that I will be pointed in the right direction with the help of the Faculty,” he said.

“Opportunity is fleeting. One has to recognise it and seize it when it comes passing by. At this point in my life, opportunity means being given the chance to get a Commerce degree at the University of Melbourne and I intend to nurture it well.”

Sandhya, too, believes that the opportunity to receive tertiary education will bring a better future.

“Accounting and mathematics both interested me during high school, and the Bachelor of Commerce allows me to pursue my interest in both these fields, while also providing very good job prospects.

“I think it’s really important to have a decent education in business because we need people who are business-savvy to try to prevent a repeat of the GFC in future,” added Sandhya.

In hand-written thank you letters to the anonymous donor, Jonathan and Sandhya not only expressed their gratitude but also their intensions to succeed and, one day, to be able to help other disadvantaged students.

“I am truly grateful and humbled to have been chosen to receive this opportunity. I will endeavor to complete the course of my studies to the best of my abilities and you will not be disappointed in your faith in me.

“Perhaps one day I will be able to follow in your footsteps and do the same for other deserving students,” writes Jonathan.

The Commerce Opportunity Bursary is much more that a symbolic acknowledgement to Sandhya. The changes that the Bursary will bring are very real.

Left and middle: Ms Sandhya Manchikanti (left) and Mr Jonathan Yoon (middle) are awarded their Commerce Opportunity Bursaries by Dr Peter Yates, Chairman of the Business and Economics Board. Right: Recent BCom graduate and Rhodes Scholarship recipient Daniel Norman addressing guests

Board Member Anthony Burgess (right) with former Dean, Associate Professor Robert Clift,

whom Anthony describes as instrumental to the start of his finance career

Alumni Dinner in Dubai 1 October 2009

An Alumni Dinner in Dubai was hosted by Associate Dean (Global Engagement), Professor Nasser Spear, on 1 October 2009. Professor Spear met with a small group of alumni who are based in the region and interested in developing an alumni network.

Professor Nasser Spear (third from left) with alumni in Dubai

Young Alumni event: Leon L’Huillier at KPMG 15 October 2009

The third and final Young Alumni event of the year was held on 15 October, hosted by KPMG at its Collins Street premises. Alumnus Leon L’Huillier (Director, Woolworths Ltd) spoke about ‘Corporate DNA: Woolworths and the TAC’ and gave attendees some excellent insights into the different working cultures of Woolworths and the public sector. Prior to Woolworths, Leon held the position of Chairman and CEO at the Government-owned Transport Accident Commission (TAC).

The presentation included an outline and examples of five ‘stand-out’ elements of the Woolworths culture: home-grown talent and systems; hands-on execution; cost consciousness; top-down, yet egalitarian; confident but not complacent. Alumni were delighted with the presentation and many cornered Leon with their questions.

24th Annual Foenander Lecture21 October 2009

Presented by the Centre for Human Resource Management in the Department of Management and Marketing, the annual Foenander Lecture drew a record crowd of over 200 human resources practitioners and other members of the public.

Professor Barbara Pocock of the Centre for Work + Life at the University of South Australia gave a thought-provoking lecture entitled ‘Meaningful work in the 21st century: What makes good jobs good, and what gives them their occasional dark sides?’ Drawing on 11 case studies, Professor Pocock spoke about workers who love what they do, what it is about our jobs that inspire that love and how employers can support workers and

encourage the feeling of job satisfaction. The enthusiastic audience lingered to enjoy refreshments in the courtyard of the Elisabeth Murdoch building after the lecture’s conclusion.

Downing Lecture: Professor Stephen Jenkins 22 October 2010

Professor Stephen Jenkins, from the Institute for Social and Economic Research at the University of Essex, UK, delivered the 2009 Downing Lecture entitled ‘Spaghetti unravelled: how income varies with age’. Professor Jenkins discussed how knowledge about this topic, and the extent to which individual trajectories differ from average profiles, is relevant to many aspects of social policy making.

UMCAS 40+ Reunion Luncheon University House 23 October 2009

Eighty alumni gathered at University House for the 40+ Reunion Luncheon, an event for commerce alumni who graduated 40 or more years ago. Attendance at the 2009 lunch was the highest ever, and alumni and staff thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate long past but not forgotten memories of their student days. It was wonderful to see old friends reunited.

The Dean, Professor Margaret Abernethy, addressed guests over lunch and each person was given a copy of Balanced

Growth, a new book on the history of the Economics Department edited by past Dean, Professor Ross Williams. All guests also received a commemorative 40+ Reunion glass to take home.

This year’s UMCAS 40+ Reunion Luncheon is being held on Friday 15 October – please save the date.

Dean’s Christmas Lunch 19 November 2009

The Dean hosted her annual thank-you lunch for donors, mentors, sponsors and supporters of the Faculty over the past year. More than 80 guests lunched at Oyster Little Bourke together with Faculty staff and executives. The Dean, Advisory Board Chairman Peter Yates and UMCAS Leadership Scholarship recipient Allen Sabet offered three different perspectives on their year with the Faculty.

UMCAS President Ross Cameron co-hosted the lunch and thanked Professor Abernethy for her excellent leadership through both the challenges and successes of 2009. Special mention was also made of the contribution by Peter Yates and Chris Leptos. All the guests, including those unable to attend, were acknowledged and thanked for their assistance in supporting the Faculty’s vision to become the premier business and economics school in the region.

Recent events

Guests at the 2009 Dean’s Christmas Lunch

Friends for 60 years


Alumni Chris Leptos, John Balmford and Ian Loxton

‘A Night of 1000 Stars’ BCom graduation celebration 26 November 2009

BCom students graduating in semester 2, 2009 celebrated with a glamorous party at the Plaza Ballroom on Collins Street. Following a red carpet welcome, guests were swept into the magical ballroom to party the night away with around 400 fellow graduates. Professor Jeff Borland was there to bid farewell to the students; and UMCAS President Ross Cameron welcomed hem to the alumni network.

Photos from the event can be viewed at: www.flickr.com/photos/unimelb_commerce/sets/72157622759931709/

Graduate School of Business and Economics Graduation Dinner 11 December 2009

Over 200 graduating students, guests and staff came together to celebrate the end of an era at the Graduation Dinner in December. Held at the iconic Melbourne Museum overlooking the Exhibition Building, all enjoyed a memorable evening with awards and prizes, a three-course dinner, drinks and dancing.

Graduates were welcomed by Brooke Young, Executive Director of the Graduate School of Business and Economics, and had the opportunity to mingle with their peers, as well as academic and professional staff.

The formalities of the evening came to an end with the presentation of the Executive Director’s Award, which recognises the outstanding contribution made by a student to the Graduate School of Business and Economics. The recipient was Sean Chua who, as the founding President of the Student Association, dedicated an enormous amount of time, energy and enthusiasm to enhance the experience of his fellow Graduate School students.

Photos from the dinner can be viewed at: www.gsbe.unimelb.edu.au/experience/graduation_S2_2009.html

Global Business Practicum January 2010

Three groups of commerce students travelled overseas to complete their business practicum, an intensive subject offered by the Department of Management and Marketing.

Those that went to Singapore and Hong Kong were lucky enough to meet with small groups of alumni in those countries and receive first-hand career advice. At the same time, it gave the students the chance to share with alumni the innovative programs, such as this practicum, which the Faculty offers.

The industry project aims to enhance students’ understanding of the globalised economy, develop their practical business competencies in an international setting and boost professional career opportunities. As an in-country study experience, it also gives students the chance to experience culture, society and business practices first-hand whilst applying their business and management skills.

The next industry projects are being held in Shanghai, Beijing and Kuala Lumpur in July 2010. If you are interested in hosting a project in the future or to learn more, please contact our Alumni Relations Manager, Anthea Barry, on [email protected].

Building the iconic brand: Naomi Simson16 March 2010

Charismatic alumna and Chief Experience Officer of Red Balloon, Naomi Simson, presented a seminar to students as part of the Creating Future Leaders Series held by the Graduate School of Business and Economics.

The audience heard how Naomi had built the iconic brand from an entrepreneurial epiphany in 2001, into Australia’s leading online gifting retailer. Naomi believes that quality gifts, like an experience, should be the motivation for gift giving. She calls herself the ‘Chief Experience Officer’ as she is responsible for how her stakeholders experience her business.

Naomi spoke about the difference between leadership and management; and how her role as the CEO of Red Balloon is 50 per cent vision, values and alignment, and 50 per cent external relations. She emphasised that strategic thinking, execution and inspiration are the core competencies which employees look for in a leader, saying, “Leadership is about uniting everyone in the right direction. As the leadership team goes, so does the organisation.”

Naomi, a Bachelor of Commerce alumna, was also a founding member of the student society AIESEC at the University of Melbourne. Following the seminar, Naomi lunched with Faculty staff and student representatives from AIESEC, Student Entrepreneurs and the 4P’s Marketing Club. The lunch was a great opportunity for the students and Naomi to engage, share experiences and network.

Inaugural lecture by Professor Robert Dixon24 March 2010

Professor Robert Dixon from the Faculty’s Department of Economics delivered his inaugural professorial lecture to a full theatre in the new building at 198 Berkeley Street. Professor Dixon’s lecture was entitled ‘The dismal science? A random walk through (some) Australian economic policy’.

Making Great People Decisions: Dean Ireland20 April 2010

Also as part of the Creating Future Leaders Series, alumnus Dean Ireland presented a seminar to Graduate School of Business and Economics students and staff about making great people decisions. Dean is a lead consultant at Egon Zehnder International, a globally renowned company in the field of assessment and the recruiting of top management resources.

In Dean’s words, “Great organisations are made up of great people and for leaders at all levels within those organisations, the ability to find, hire, integrate and retain great people is an absolutely critical skill – critical to their organisation’s success and critical to their own success.”

Dean completed his Bachelor of Commerce at the Faculty and is also an MBA graduate from Melbourne Business School.

Condensed and edited versions of public lectures connected to the Faculty of Economics and Commerce, including those listed above, are published in the Insights journal twice a year. The journal can be viewed online at http://insights.unimelb.edu.au. If you would like to receive a hard copy or be added to the mailing list for future editions, please contact the Advancement Unit on +61 3 8344 3507 or email [email protected].

Alumni Matters 7

Building the iconic brand – Red Balloon Day Experiences seminar (L-R) Naomi Simson,

Tian Yang (Entrepreneurs Club), Aradhana Rai (4P’s Marketing Club), Vibs Wharden (AIESEC)

and Professor Margaret Abernethy

Prof Bill Harley with GSBE graduates


Broadening horizons and fostering professional networks

The Faculty of Business and Economic’s Career Mentoring Program has once again experienced significant growth in 2010. The Dean, Professor Margaret Abernethy, officially launched the 2010 program on 29 April, with 200 students from the Faculty matched with over 160 industry mentors, the majority of whom are alumni.

The objective of career mentoring is to support students’ transition from university into the workforce, and to provide a contact for advice distinct from other support services available. Mentoring is a mutually beneficial arrangement – industry mentors are able to develop their network amongst our diverse student cohort and other

participating mentors, and make a significant contribution to the student community while developing their own leadership and coaching skills.

In the past eight years, the Career Mentoring Program has proven to be invaluable to many of the Faculty’s students looking for a link into the business world, while gaining a clearer picture about their targeted careers. Mentors have gained insights into the issues students face when transitioning into the workplace, and have used their coaching skills to assist the students’ career development.

The Business and Economics Careers Centre thanks UMCAS for their continued

support. We hope all of the participants in the 2010 Career Mentoring Program find it to be a rewarding experience.

If you are interested in participating in the 2011 Career Mentoring Program please visit: www.gsbe.unimelb.edu.au/careers/employers/mentor.html.

Alternatively, contact Melania Guzman: [email protected] or 03 9035 5874.

Career mentoring

This year 300 students and their mentors attended the launch of the 2010 Career Mentoring program.

The launch event provided an opportunity for mentors and mentees to meet each other

Your Alumni Relations and Fundraising teamBuilding and sustaining the competitive edge of a world-class educational facility like the Faculty of Business and Economics involves a huge amount of external support and resources. That’s why, over the last few years, we’ve been building a team of professionals to drive intentional, high-impact programs that engage graduates with the Faculty.

Under the direction of Suzanne Dixon, a full team of alumni engagement and fundraising staff is now in place.

We are pleased to welcome Jonathan Cosgrove to the Advancement Team as the Faculty’s new Major Gifts and Fundraising Manager. Jonathan joins us from Melbourne Business School (MBS) where, over four years, he led many of the alumni and fundraising programs. During his time at MBS, Jonathan helped to increase alumni participation in graduate activities and grow the School’s philanthropic income and activities.

He is now focused on building unique and world-class philanthropic programs at the Faculty, which will marry donor passion with institutional need.

“I am looking forward to working with an engaged and diverse alumni community in support of opportunity and excellence at the Faculty. I came here to work with donors to support a business education that makes a real and sustained difference to the world.”

Anthea Barry is the Faculty’s Alumni Relations Manager, and has been with the Advancement Unit for two and a half years. Her focus has been to increase alumni engagement and strengthen the Faculty’s relationship with alumni through improved communications, personal interaction and strategic events.

She has an interest in communications and last year developed the Faculty’s first alumni e-newsletter, eComm. Anthea is also responsible for editing Alumni Matters. Her focus this year will be on further strengthening discipline-specific alumni chapters and on developing an integrated and representative alumni council.

We are also pleased to announce the appointment of Christine Cheng as our new Alumni and Community Engagement Officer. Chris brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles within the University’s Protocol and Events team and with Asialink. She is also one of our own MAC (Marketing) graduates, completing her degree in 2008.

CHRIStINE CHENG

Alumni and Community Engagement Officer

Chris can be contacted on [email protected] or +61 3 8344 3507. She can help with queries relating to any of the Faculty’s alumni or public events, or to update your contact details.

ANtHEA BARRY

Alumni Relations Manager

Anthea can be contacted on [email protected] or +61 3 8344 2128 for any queries in relation to alumni engagement.

JONAtHAN COSGROvE

Major Gifts and Fundraising Manager

Jonathan can be contacted on [email protected] or +61 3 9035 4888. Drop him a line if you’d like to know more about a donation that makes a difference within the Faculty of Business and Economics.


New head of economic and social research think-tank Leading labour market expert Professor Deborah Cobb-Clark has been appointed Director of the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research and Ronald F Henderson Professor at the University of Melbourne.

Prior to taking up her appointment on 27 April, Professor Cobb-Clark was Head of the Economics Program at the Research School of Social Sciences, and inaugural Director of the Social Policy Evaluation, Analysis and Research (SPEAR) Centre at the Australian National University.

A world expert on the effects of public policies on labour market outcomes, much of her research has focused on immigration policy and how this might affect the labour market outcomes of migrants. She has also examined how the receipt of income support affects young people’s decisions to engage in risky behaviour and the role of gender in promotions, occupational choice, and wages.

Professor Cobb-Clark is currently leading the innovative Youth in Focus project, a longitudinal survey funded by the Australian Research Council and the Commonwealth Government.

The Dean, Professor Margaret Abernethy, said the Faculty of Business and Economics is delighted to have attracted a person of Professor Cobb-Clark’s background and extensive experience. “She is a world leader in her field, and her prodigious talent for research will build on the Melbourne Institute’s already outstanding research record.”

After completing her PhD in Economics at the University of Michigan, Professor Cobb-Clark worked as a labour economist with the US Department of Labor. Her extensive research publications have appeared in top tier economics journals, including the number one ranked international journal, the American Economic Review. She was recently elected as a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia (ASSA).

Professor Cobb-Clark will be giving her inaugural lecture on Thursday 22 July – see page 16 for details.

Welcoming our newest graduates to the alumni communityA conferring ceremony was held on 31 March for students who successfully completed their Bachelor of Commerce degree in 2009. It was a proud moment for students, parents and the Faculty. Many of our international students were joined by their families, who flew into Melbourne for the special occasion. Congratulations to all of our newest graduates!

Professor Deborah Cobb-Clark (left) with Professor Margaret Abernethy

BCom/BEng graduate Ken Yi Khoo with his brothers and

parents, Howard Khoo (BArch) and Meng Chi (BCom), at the

31 March conferring ceremony

We are pleased to announce the recent appointment of Professor Greg Whitwell as our Deputy Dean and Director of the Graduate School

of Business and Economics, after wide consultation by the Dean, Professor Margaret Abernethy. Greg brings a long history of experience in leadership positions in the Faculty, particularly in his recent role as Associate Dean (Academic Programs). This new position is pivotal to the development of an excellent Graduate School of Business and Economics.

A new Deputy Dean (Faculty) has also been appointed. Professor Paul Kofman, currently Head of the Department

of Finance, will commence his new position on 1 July 2010.

“I’m very much looking forward to working closely with the Commerce Student Centre and the Teaching and Learning Unit, to continue delivering the most rewarding learning experience in business and economics,” Paul said.

Paul has taught the very popular first-year Finance subject since 2004 and more recently also taught Ethics in Finance. He intends to continue with an active role in undergraduate teaching, informed by his ongoing research into financial market regulation and risk management.

Following Paul’s appointment as Deputy Dean (Faculty), Professor Bruce Grundy has been appointed Head of the Department

of Finance. The Dean commented that “Paul has done an excellent job as head; Bruce shares the same vision for the Department and will take it to the next step in creating the leading finance department in the region.”

LEADERSHIP CHANGES IN BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS


Postcard from SingaporeAlumna Pearle Chan (BCom 2007) is in Institutional Equity Sales at State Street Group in Singapore. She reflects on her journey since graduation.

It was 8 April, a normal Thursday morning. Cup of coffee in one hand, I stood in the elevator psyching up for another day of work. Normally, I would stare up as the floors blinked by, but on this particular morning, I chanced a sneak peek at my neighbour’s newspaper where a headline jumped out: ‘Generation Y, hardest group to work with’.

As a Generation Y-ster myself, this grabbed my attention and I wanted to know more.

Mind racing, I tried to come up with answers. It was a shame that I didn’t get to read the article; more of a shame I couldn’t track it down on the Internet. Still intrigued, I decided to ask my colleagues, who were mainly Generation X-ers and Baby Boomers, if they agreed. Their answer: “Ever watched Up in the Air?”

Sure, this answer was an over-simplification, but the character they were referring to – Natalie – provided the insight I was after. Although encouraged to be eager and achievement-oriented, I was reminded that Gen Y should also be sensitive to our environments, which we easily and quickly disregard because of our enthusiasm to perform. Could it be the lack of this soft skill that makes us the hardest generation to work with?

With that thought, I looked back upon my uni days and my few short years of work experience since graduation. I wondered about what experiences could be gained

so that we Gen Y-sters are more sensitive to our environment. Three came to mind.

Cultural understanding and appreciation

Uni was the source of interactions within different social settings, such as lectures, tutorials, self-study, student groups and organisations. It provided the opportunity to interact with peers from around the globe. From my classes, I was able to gain an understanding of my classmates’ culture, and what drives them to succeed.

These are traits that I am now immersed in daily whilst working in Singapore, servicing clients from the Asia Pacific region. I am glad to have learnt the nuances from my classmates, as it has been beneficial in maintaining client relationships for work. I deem it important to be respectful of cultures, especially in the age of globalisation.

Understanding different attitudes and personalities

My involvement with the Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) team at uni was also very rewarding. SIFE is a student organisation that aims to help those left out of the free market economy to gain the education, skills and experience to achieve increased access, opportunity and success.

Through SIFE, I had the chance to represent the University and Australia at the SIFE World Championships in 2007.

The conference was a great way to communicate with peers from different backgrounds and personalities. I also learnt about the hardships that members of my own community experienced, teaching me much about how to manage and positively work with a myriad of personalities.

Knowing when to go with the flow

I have been fortunate to work in multiple cities (Boston, London, Sydney and Singapore) with the same company. This has taught me that we need to quickly learn how ‘things are done’. Some business units or regions are more open to change, whilst others may face more hurdles. Knowing when to ‘go with the flow’ helps the execution of tasks become more efficient, creating a better sense of achievement.

As a result, I have come to appreciate the varying interactions gained from uni, and how these interactions have eased my transition to working life – in multiple cities across the globe. I have gained many opportunities that have proven extremely beneficial and relevant to my career; I have learnt different cultures; I have met colleagues and new contacts in various cities. These insights and networks have delivered knowledge sharing, cultural understanding and business relationships.

Now, I am looking forward to building my soft skills, so that I develop a sensitivity to my surrounding environment in the hope that I do not become a ‘Natalie’.

Postcards


What happened in Copenhagen was an upheaval – yet it has opened up an unexpected window of opportunity to make improvements to the structure of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

It was a strange thing to witness the genuine confusion of world leaders and chief negotiators and, ultimately, the breakdown of process at the international climate negotiations.

Now, with the first Bonn intercessional underway, here are some things we could consider to achieve swifter, more effective global dealings:

1. The UNFCCC has failed to develop a timely response to our climate emergency. Without being prepared and trained, an emergency situation could go badly and our long-term transition could be jeopardised. There is an opportunity

to develop a genuine emergency management unit to monitor and manage classified climate emergencies, and to alleviate risks of irreversible localised or global disasters.

2. Is there a need to more uniquely address the spiralling international adaptation challenge? The resilience and survival of nations and peoples are based upon unique incentive structures and interests. Also, the ability for adaptation finance to be used as a tool to horse-trade on issues of mitigation should be minimised; and long-term mitigation plans should similarly have implementation certainty with low or no risk of being compromised by shorter-term adaptation needs.

3. We have the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) doing it for the sciences, the UNFCCC doing it for policy and political negotiation – but where is

the body for purely technical solution development? At present, politics, technical solutions and strategies are tied together in the UNFCCC process. Excellent solutions to our climate problems can’t be effectively developed or negotiated in the face of conflicting, short-term politicking. It would be exciting to create space for effective technical collaboration, and then follow with effective policy negotiation.

When asked why he enrolled in the joint Commerce/Law program at the University of Melbourne in 1970, BCom/LLB (Hons) alumnus Michael Whalley has no clear memory, except that, “I had no real career direction and it was probably a combination of peer-group influence and a sense that the combination of disciplines would widen my career opportunities.”

Whalley attended Geelong Grammar School and was at Timbertop in 1966 when Prince Charles (who was two years older than most students) spent a year in Australia.

After finishing his degrees at the University of Melbourne, he completed articles in London in 1975 under an unusual arrangement at a small law firm operated by a family friend. He believes he was the first to undertake articles internationally and doubts if this is still possible.

Remaining in London, he joined the London office of the precursor firm to the current Minter-Ellison partnership in 1979. Starting out on his own with one secretary, today he is Managing Partner, supported by another partner and six lawyers.

Whether intentional or not, he credits his decision to undertake the BCom degree

as being fundamental to his career today.

“Without my BCom background, I would be struggling as a corporate lawyer. I can talk to chief financial officers about cash flows, rates-of-return and more. The financial numeracy I acquired through the degree is extremely important.”

He is essentially, as he puts it, “an Australian lawyer in London”. The office’s clients tend to be Australian entities wanting to do business in London and Europe, involving such matters as mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, fund raisings, international taxation and distribution agreements. They also advise British clients on Australian legal matters.

As to the relevance of his Commerce studies, he instanced how a knowledge of the accounting treatment of dividends enabled him to advise firms on avoiding the international ‘dividend trap’ (which arises when a profitable subsidiary in, for example, Australia repatriates dividends to a parent in the UK with accumulated losses and which,

ordinarily, would be required to offset losses before any distributions can take place).

Whalley has extensive involvement with business and cultural organisations relevant to University and British-Australian relations. He is former Chairman of the Cook Society, Director of the Britain Australia Society, Director of the Sir Robert Menzies Memorial Trust and Trustee of the Friends of the University of Melbourne Charitable Trust (UK).

When asked about the reasons behind his move to London in 1975, Whalley admits that as a keen skier, part of his motivation to work in London was to ski in Europe. He has been in London ever since and, yes, he still skies!

The media platform

overlooking the main conference hall. Wendy (left) working with her colleague in

preparation for a 7PM Project broadcast slot.

Postcard from CopenhagenAlumna Wendy Miller completed her BCom in 2004 at the Faculty Business and Economics, and was the Project Director of the Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC) International Youth Delegation to Copenhagen 2009. Wendy shares her perspectives on the events that unfolded there.

Postcard from LondonMichael Whalley is interviewed by Associate-Professor Geoff Burrows

continued on page 12


Success at the Marshall International Case CompetitionOn 20 February, a team of students from the Faculty of Business and Economics won the Marshall International Case Competition at the University of Southern California. This is the most prestigious, largest and daunting competition of its kind in the world.

Michelle Hoggan, Robbie Tilleard, Maya Dagan and Andrew Walla made up the winning team, between them covering a wide variety of disciplines. Thirty business schools from around the world compete for the coveted trophy; there are six divisions with five teams each. To reach the finals, the Faculty team beat those from UC Berkeley, Penn State, ITESM and Sao Paulo.

The case they presented on Disney Pixar left senior managers of the company highly impressed with the team’s recommendations.

Professor Greg Whitwell, Deputy Dean and Director (Graduate School of Business and Economics), made special mention of Dr Jennifer Grafton, whose support and contribution was critical to the success of the team. He also thanked Professor John Lyon from the Faculty’s Department of Accounting and Business Information Systems and Honours Accounting alumni Tristan Webster and Marc Costabile.

Tristan and Marc were incredibly generous with their time, helping to judge sessions and impart the knowledge they’ve gained in their consulting work. In Professor Whitwell’s words, “Tristan and Marc are the kinds of alumni of which this Faculty should feel so mightily proud.”

Well done to all involved.

The Fitzgeralds were prominent in the development both of the Australian accounting profession and the accounting discipline at the University of Melbourne. Sir Alex Fitzgerald taught part-time at the University from 1925 (the first year of the BCom) to 1958, latterly as the first G.L. Wood Professor of Accounting. Garry Fitzgerald, whose AIF war service in World War I included action in the trenches of the Western Front, tutored and lectured part-time for 20 years, and was instrumental in the formation of the major accounting body, CPA Australia.

Fittingly, participants at the luncheon represented both the ‘town’ and ‘gown’ facets of the Fitzgeralds’ activities. Messrs John Balmford, Harry Barrass, John Bishop, Ken Burrows and Baard Solnordal were all former business partners of the Fitzgeralds. Also present at the luncheon were ABIS’s current and inaugural Fitzgerald professors, Professor John Lyon and Professor Emeritus Ken Wright, and their colleagues Professors Emeritus Robert Nicol and Stewart Leech, Associate-Professor Geoff Burrows and Mr Phill Cobbin.

Sharing a common interest

These luncheons – there have been three to date – arose from a suggestion by John Balmford that he and his former Fitzgerald Gunn colleagues (the Fitzgerald brothers’ firm, now Ernst & Young) meet the current Fitzgerald Professor. The luncheon guests

were expanded to include past and current ABIS staff interested in the Fitzgeralds.

Much of the discussion focused on the Fitzgeralds’ achievements and legacies. A highlight was the display of portrait-engravings of the brothers provided by CPA Australia. At the conclusion of the luncheon, visitors were taken on a tour of the Faculty’s new building at 198 Berkeley Street.

Reflecting on the event, Professor John Lyon, ABIS’s current head, said, “It was good once again, to continue this pleasant association with the former associates of the Fitzgerald brothers. Given their prodigious contribution to the accounting profession and to academia in Australia, I believe that we should continue to honour their memory by reflecting on their achievements with those who were party to the formative years of accounting thought in this country.”

4. And lastly, solving climate change needs to be the primary focus, and process and structure must follow. We seem to get distracted by process and principles. Also, the questions we asked years ago may not be the ones we need to ask now.

To get game-changing information as a youth delegate before some nations did, to witness key negotiations repeatedly

cancelled as parties walked out, and to see hugely powerful world leaders express surprise, uncertainty and anger was very unsettling and strangely chilling.

You realise how much you lean on false notions of safety, dependability or predictability within political leadership. You realise how much individuals, groups and organisations can add value, damage,

shape and change things.

We all led to Copenhagen falling short of its potential. It’s a challenge we should be excited and determined to tackle.

Wendy is currently an Associate Consultant at Negotiaction in Melbourne, and can be contacted on [email protected].

Fitzgerald Chair LuncheonOn 16 November, in the Regency Room at University House, a group of current and former academic and professional accountants met to discuss a common interest. The topic was the late Fitzgerald brothers – Sir Alexander (Alex) and Garrett (Garry) – after whom the Fitzgerald Chair in the Department of Accounting and Business Information Systems (ABIS) is named.

Professor John Lyon with Win Leslie (left), daughter of Sir Alex Fitzgerald, and Helen

Wedd (right), daughter of Garrett Fitzgerald, at the Celebration of Business and Economics

@ Melbourne launch on 22 February 2010

from previous page: Postcard from Copenhagen

The support of our donors enables the Faculty of Business and Economics to deliver the highest standard of education excellence – thanks to an extensive scholarship program, state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities, and world-class academics.

We would like to thank the following people – and also those who wish to remain anonymous – for their donations and commitment to the future development of the Faculty:

Member of the Order of Australia (AM)

Mr David G Boymal, AM BCom (1962)

For service to accountancy, and to the development and implementation of financial reporting standards in Australia.

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)

Mr Simon C Price, OAM BCom (1954)

For service to the community through the Malvern Elderly Citizens Welfare Association, and to Rotary.

We would like to congratulate the following Alumni who were recognised with Australia Day Honours in 2010.

Honours and Awards

Mr Dudley A Adcock

Mr and Mrs John and Jacinta Agostinelli

Mr and Mrs Duncan G and Jannifer Andrews

Mr and Mrs John D and Dagnija Balmford

Mr James A Brown

Mr Malcolm M Brumby

Mr Neil P Dalton

Mr Bryce G Ferguson

Mr Lige Gong

Mr Jeffery Greenberg

Mr Peter J Gunn

Mr Thomas M Hogg

Dr David C Lansley

Mr Chris Leptos AM

Mrs Leanne Loh

Mr Gilbert W Loughman

Mrs Frances G. McKay

Mr Valentine C Morgan

Mr Peter E Morriss, OAM

Mr Phil Ruthven

Mr Burnett P Rymer

Mr Maurice Smith

Mr Christopher J Warrell

Ms Anne L Warren

We would also like to extend our thanks to Commerce alumni who have made a donation to the University:

Mr Hugh T. Rogers AM

For Australia, this is an incredibly exciting and unique time in our history, with the nation’s future prosperity bound, more so than ever before, to that of Asia’s. It heralds unprecedented opportunity – and many new challenges. As a Faculty and University, our role is to contribute to this opportunity and provide better understanding of, and solutions to, the challenges. We simply must be at the cutting-edge of Asian scholarship, research and knowledge transfer.

Indonesian-based alumnus Dr James Riady (BCom 1977) understands this only too well.

Adding to his current scholarship support, he recently made a gift of $1.5 million to endow the James Riady Chair in Asian Economics and Business at the Faculty. This will create a world-class professorship in an area of huge significance for the University, the nation and the region, at a time of huge geo-economic and political change.

Dr Riady’s gift will help to consolidate existing activity, and establish a new paradigm in the analysis and understanding of Asian business at the University of Melbourne. We value his foresight, leadership and considerable generosity.

Dr James Riady (right) with the Chancellor, The Hon Alex Chernov AO QC, at the Celebration of Business and Economics @ Melbourne launch on 22 February 2010

Australia in the Asian CenturyChina and India are emerging as new global superpowers. The Asian continent is growing at an unprecedented pace, and Asian economic and business issues now impact on a world scale to an extent that few could have imagined even ten years ago.

Donor Roll of Honour

Alumni Matters 13

The University of Melbourne is one of the only Australian universities to offer CSPs at a graduate level. This support is available to Australian and New Zealand citizens and holders of Australian permanent residency visas. Additionally, the GSBE offers a range of generous scholarships to assist local and international students enrolled in its programs, including the AG Whitlam Graduate Scholarship, Graduate Merit Scholarships, Graduate Access Melbourne Bursaries and International Postgraduate Coursework Awards.

The GSBE also offers extensive student support to enhance your student experience in and out of the classroom. There are activities, events and programs offered through a dedicated Careers Centre and Teaching and Learning Unit.

Then there are global opportunities such as exchange partnerships with leading business schools worldwide, and the Global Business Practicum, a credit-based

subject providing in-country experience. Students can also join a variety of clubs and societies, mentoring programs, professional memberships, volunteering, internships and networking events.

Our graduates enjoy high rates of employment and occupational satisfaction, with the average annual salary for GSBE graduates working in Australia increasing to $63,000 in 2008.

Regular GSBE program information sessions are held throughout the year.

An information session for alumni will be held on 29 July. For further details about this and other information sessions, please visit: www.gsbe.unimelb.edu.au/contactus/information-sessions.html

For information about GSBE fees and scholarships, please visit: www.gsbe.unimelb.edu.au/courses/fees-and-scholarships.html


Wanting to advance your business and economics qualifications? You may be eligible for a scholarship or Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) in a Graduate School of Business and Economics (GSBE) program.

Subsidies and scholarshipsat the Graduate School of Business and Economics

Steve Ho, Australia Master of Business and IT 2011 Graduate Merit Scholarship recipient

The MBIT allows me to build on the management skills I need for the next stage of my career. As an Information Technology Consultant for a large government department, I am responsible for hardware and software solutions that govern budget allocation. Studying the MBIT gives me better insight into successfully managing information technology in complex organisations.


Former Chancellor of the University of Melbourne

It was with great sadness that the University learned of the death of Sir Edward Woodward, former Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, on 15 April. He was 81.

Sir Edward’s association with the University was a long and generous one, beginning more than 60 years ago. He commenced as a student in Law, continued as a lecturer in the Law School, and then served on the University Council. He was ultimately appointed Chancellor from 1990–2001, leading the University of Melbourne Council. His contributions to our wider society were no less generous or significant.

Born in Ballarat, Edward Woodward graduated from the University with a Master of Laws and in his ensuing illustrious legal career he rose from barrister to Queen’s Counsel to judge.

It was as a barrister that Sir Edward played a pioneering role in the push for Aboriginal land rights in the late 1960s and early 1970s. As Aboriginal Land Rights Commissioner, his recommendations formed the basis for groundbreaking Northern Territory land rights legislation.

University Council colleagues recall the strong sense of collegiality which Sir Edward established during his term as Chancellor, and he will also be remembered as a passionate supporter of the University cricket club. On many weekend afternoons he would be seen quietly following the efforts of the University team on the University Oval.

His autobiography, One Brief Interval, was published by Melbourne University Press in 2005.

A commemoration of the life of Sir Edward Woodward was held in Wilson Hall on 22 April, attended by many people whose lives were touched and enriched by their interaction with him.

Vale: Sir Edward Woodward

Sir Edward Woodward, wearing academic dress and standing in

the Old Quadrangle.

Alumni Seminar Series – Hong Kong and China 2010Associate Professor Lisa Cameron (Department of Economics), an experimental economics expert whose research compares the risk-taking behaviours of Chinese and Western participants, shared her work at an alumni seminar series in March 2010, entitled ‘Using lab and field experiments in behaviour to inform economic theory’.

The events, held in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, were hosted by Professor Nilss Olekalns, Head of the Department of Economics, and co-ordinated by Anthea Barry, Alumni Relations Manager.

Lisa, who is the Director of the University’s Asian Economics Centre, presented her research, which uses the tools of experimental economics to examine issues in developing countries.

Experimental economics examines people’s behavioural characteristics, such as selfishness, competitiveness and how willing they are to take risks. Experiments

– including the ‘ultimatum game’, the ‘dictator game’, the ‘trust game’ and the ‘competition game’ – are used to test the validity of economic theories and test market mechanisms, using real money as incentives.

Experiments similar to these have been used to examine the role of risk attitudes in Chinese farmers’ decisions to adopt new agricultural technology.

Lisa talked about experiments that have been conducted in Australia and China; comparisons of Chinese results with those for other countries; and her current research project, which seeks to examine

the impact of China’s One Child Policy, including experiments that she and her fellow researchers would be undertaking in Beijing following the lecture series.

Lisa’s lectures generated many questions which she answered and discussed further with guests following her presentation.

Each event was followed by a networking cocktail reception for alumni to meet each other and University staff. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to meet many of our alumni living in these cities, as well as some future students.

JUNE

UMCAS Young Alumni event

Date: Tuesday 29 JuneTime: 6pm – 8pmVenue: Deloitte, Cnr Bourke & William StsSpeaker: Alastair Lucas, Vice Chairman and Managing Director at Goldman Sachs JBWere

JULY

UMCAS Annual Reunion Dinner 2010

Date: Thursday 15 JulyTime: 7.00pm – 10.30pmVenue: The Dining Hall, Ormond College, ParkvilleSpeaker: Tom Elliott, MM&E Capital

Inaugural Lecture by Professor Deborah Cobb-Clark

Date: Thursday 22 JulyTime: 6.00pmVenue: Theatre 1, ICT Building, 111 Barry St

The Finch Public Lecture in conjunction with the Economic Society of Australia

Date: Wednesday 28 JulyTime: 6.00pmVenue: Copland TheatreSpeaker: Economics Nobel Laureate Professor Joseph Stiglitz

AUGUSt

The Corden Public Lecture

Date: Wednesday 4 AugustTime: 6pmVenue: Basement Theatre, 198 Berkeley StreetSpeaker: Barry Eichengreen


Date: Tuesday 17 August Venue: Koko Black, Collins StreetTime: 6.15pm – 8.15pmSpeaker: Darrell Wade, Director and Co-Founder, Intrepid

SEPtEMBER

Alumni Refresher Lecture Series

Date: Tues 7, 14, 21 SeptemberTime: 6.30pm – 8.30pmVenue: Theatre 1, ICT Building, 111 Barry St

25 Year Commerce Reunion (1985 graduates)

Details to be finalised – if you are a 1985 graduate and are interested in joining the organising committee please contact Anthea Barry on [email protected] or call 03 8344 2128.

OCtOBER


Date: Tuesday 12 OctoberTime: 6pm – 8pmVenue: KPMG, Collins StreetSpeaker: Paul Bassat, Joint CEO and Co-Founder, SEEK

UMCAS 40+ Reunion Luncheon

Date: Friday 15 OctoberTime: 12.30 – 3pmVenue: Upper East Dining Room, University House

The Foenander Public Lecture

Date: Wednesday 20 OctoberTime: 6.30pmVenue: Theatre A, Elisabeth Murdoch BuildingSpeaker: Dr Simon Longstaff

The Melbourne Institute Lecture on Public Policy

Date and venue: tbcSpeaker: Professor Warwick McKibbin

NOvEMBER

BCom 1year Reunion (2009 graduates)

Contact details and further information: Faculty of Business and Economics Advancement and Marketing UnitLevel 12, 198 Berkeley StreetThe University of Melbourne Victoria 3010 Tel: 03 8344 3507 Fax: 03 8344 2147 Email: [email protected] Web: www.fbe.unimelb.edu.au/alumni

The University also organises a number of alumni events in Melbourne and internationally. To find out what’s happening in your city visit: www.unimelb.edu.au/alumni

Join our facebook group to stay in touch with what’s happening at the Faculty, and connect with alumni from around the world. facebook group: University of Melbourne Commerce Alumni Society

Follow @BusEcoNews for the latest news and research of interest.

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We have several Faculty and alumni events planned for the coming months. Please save the date for those you would like to attend. Details, including how to register, will be published on the alumni website as they become available, and will be advertised in the Business and Economics e-newsletter, eComm. For updates, please visit: www.fbe.unimelb.edu.au/alumni or contact Christine Cheng at [email protected] or +61 3 8344 3507

Alumni Matters is edited by Anthea Barry, designed by scdesign.com.au and published by the Faculty of Business and Economics with authorisation from the Director, Advancement. Disclaimer: this information was correct at the time of printing. The University reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.

Calendar of events

Documents

Alumni Matters June 2010