The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Corporate) leads the Corporate Services Portfolio, encompassing the university’s core enabling functions that support the success and wellbeing of staff and students while acting as a catalyst for opportunity, innovation, and achievement. Extending across finance, people and capability, technology and digital innovation, infrastructure, governance, marketing and external relations, and strategic operations, the portfolio drives performance, resilience, and alignment with the university’s mission while delivering operational excellence today and shaping capabilities for future success.
Patrick Woods
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Corporate)
Patrick Woods is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Corporate) at ACU, leading the provision of all corporate services including Finance and Planning, Information Technology, Marketing and External Relations, Legal, Assurance and Governance, People and Capability, Properties and Facilities, and Strategy and Operations.
His global outlook and disciplined leadership are rooted in a Canadian/NATO military international upbringing and Naval Officer training. With academic credentials in science and business, Patrick has successfully led transformative change across higher education, healthcare, logistics, government, and technology sectors across multiple countries.
Patrick's expertise encompasses leadership, governance, strategy, business transformation, organizational structuring, sustainability, mergers and acquisitions, and complex precinct planning. Renowned for his ability to simplify complexity and foster financial sustainability, he consistently empowers teams to achieve innovation and long-term success.
Previously, as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President at UTS, Patrick led the creation of Australia's first 10-year financial plan for a university and a $1.5 billion campus redevelopment, advancing sustainability goals and supporting UTS's #1 ranking for impactful research in Australia.
Beyond work, Patrick embraces a philosophy of balanced living, enjoying skiing, sailing, hiking and exploring cultures with family and friends.