University of Melbourne Appoints Michelle Fitzgerald as Chief Information Officer
The University of Melbourne has appointed Michelle Fitzgerald as its new Chief Information Officer, following the departure of former CIO Byron Collins earlier this year.
Fitzgerald, previously group chief digital officer at St Vincent’s Health Australia, officially commenced her role on April 8.
Leading Digital Strategy and Transformation
In her new position, Fitzgerald will oversee enterprise IT strategy, digital innovation, and cybersecurity across the university.
Chief operating officer and vice-president of administration and finance Katerina Kapobassis said Fitzgerald will be responsible for delivering a “coordinated, secure and future-focused digital environment” to support teaching, research, and operational functions.
Kapobassis highlighted Fitzgerald’s extensive experience leading large-scale digital transformation initiatives across multiple regions, including Australia, Asia, the United Kingdom, and the Americas.
Transition Following Leadership Change
Fitzgerald steps into the role as the permanent successor to Collins, who departed at the end of January. During the interim period, CIO responsibilities were shared between chief information security officer Amit Achrekar and director of enterprise technology Daniel Buttigieg.
Focus on AI and Higher Education Transformation
In a public statement, Fitzgerald pointed to the evolving landscape of higher education, shaped by policy changes, resource constraints, and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence.
“Higher education is at a defining moment,” she said, noting the opportunity to reimagine digital capabilities for students, academics, and researchers.
Fitzgerald also described the appointment as a personal milestone, returning to the university where she began her academic journey.
Strengthening Digital Leadership
The appointment underscores the University of Melbourne’s focus on advancing its digital strategy at a time of significant change in the education sector, with increasing emphasis on technology-driven innovation, cybersecurity, and AI integration.
