51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Following a comprehensive international search, Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt is pleased to announce that Alex Furman has been appointed Vice-President (Advancement). Alex may be known to many of us at ANU already from his role as Director of Development (Colleges).

Since joining ANU in late 2021, Alex has led a major portfolio of work to raise philanthropic funds for the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø's academic divisions. As a highly experienced leader of philanthropic programs with a strong background in communications and stakeholder engagement, he held leadership roles in Advancement at the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø of Melbourne as Director of Development (2015-2021) and Deputy Director of Development (2013-2015) for the Believe Campaign. Responsible for the strategic development of university-wide fundraising programs and establishing strong partnerships with the academic community and many affiliated bodies across the institution, Alex played an integral part in the success of the Believe Campaign. Believe closed at the end of 2021 having secured $1.16 billion in philanthropic support and engaged over 100,000 alumni in the life of the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø.

Prior to the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø of Melbourne, Alex was Head of Public Relations and Development for Murdoch Children's Research Institute, where he co-led the Institute's first comprehensive Campaign. He has also held leadership positions in fundraising and management in the Australian arts sector for Opera Australia, Victorian Opera and the Melbourne International Arts Festival.

Alex has provided volunteer leadership for a range of community organisations serving for many years as a committee member, patrol captain and surf lifesaver for Lifesaving Victoria, as well as a board member of the Children's Bioethics Centre at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne and Artistic Advisory Panel member for Musica Viva Australia. He is presently Chair of the Mietta Foundation, having been a committee and board member since 2005.

Alex holds Master's degrees in music performance from the Royal College of Music in London and the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø of Melbourne, and enjoyed a short career as a professional classical pianist.

Alex has a strong vision for the future of ANU Advancement, to prepare and propel the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø to achieve success against 51³Ô¹ÏÍø strategic priorities and objectives, and strengthening partnerships with our alumni, donors and friends.

"I am honoured by the opportunity to take up this role under the leadership of our Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor in one of the world's great universities," Alex said.

"I strongly believe in the contribution universities and higher education make to broader society.  It is a privilege to lead an Advancement team that is so committed to building relationships with our alumni, donors and friends in support of the university's mission to advance the lives of individuals and communities."

We welcome Alex to his new role as Vice-President (Advancement).