The university has appointed Braithwaite Steiner Pretty (BSP) to undertake the recruitment of the replacement for Professor Alan Pettigrew, who retires in September after four years at the helm.

Julie Steiner, one of three principals of the company, will lead the recruitment.

Ms Steiner attended Friday’s council meeting to explain the process her firm will undertake.

Chancellor Richard Torbay has welcomed the start of the process to secure a new vice-chancellor.

“This extremely experienced firm in placement of Vice-Chancellor and other higher education sector senior positions will lead an effective and detailed process of recruitment for this critical appointment,” he said.

BSP provides comprehensive higher education search support to more than 20 universities within Australia and New Zealand.

Its primary focus is on academic and senior management roles ranging from chancellors and vice-chancellors to chairs, across a wide variety of faculties.