Meet UNE Life’s new CEO, Kim Lawrence

Meet Kim Lawrence, UNE Life’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Kim has been an integral member of the UNE community since 2022, bringing her highly diverse knowledge in corporate business to the UNE controlled entities Company Secretary role. Her rich career experience, which spans several countries, brings a fresh and valuable perspective to her CEO role at UNE Life. When not at work, you’ll find Kim on the sports court playing squash, tennis, or hockey, or at home tending to cattle on her small family farm.

We recently sat down with Kim and spoke about this next chapter in her professional life. Keep reading to learn all about Kim and hear her thoughts on the future of UNE Life.

How would you describe yourself, in your own words, to someone who’s never met you?

Initially reserved, as I like to understand people and situations before launching into being myself. It’s important to me to be as authentic as possible, while considering the company and those around me.

Boredom is not a word we use in our household — I enjoy life to the fullest.

I always try to do the right thing by individuals, while also looking at the bigger picture with personal integrity. I don’t mind robust conversations, as we can all strive to do better and learn from each other.

How do you want to use your past experiences to inform your approach to your new role as UNE Life’s CEO?

I have learnt that everyone is different and contributes differently to a team. Realising and utilising people’s strengths is important and helping them (and myself) develop the weaker areas is very rewarding.

My experience has been in diverse organisations, from sporting organisations to banks and most things in between. I feel privileged that the exposure will help me navigate the various business units within UNE Life so that together we seek out new horizons.

What does it mean to you to be a part of UNE Life?

It means a lot! It is more than a job and will be all-consuming, but I am ready. It is not going to be easy, and I have a great deal to learn, but I am looking forward to the challenge. The UNE Life team has a wonderful reputation, and I look forward to being part of that.

I am so excited that I am literally bursting at the seams. I feel for my family, as this is all they hear about at the moment.

What excites you most about the future of UNE – and the role you hope to play in shaping it?

UNE Life has potential to move into various areas, and it is with care, consideration and teamwork that we can influence student well-being, staff inclusivity as well as affect the community in a positive way. I truly feel that UNE Life will bring solutions to many needs in the area. I am so looking forward to starting on August 1st.

Last question! Do you have a favourite place on campus to relax with a coffee?

I haven’t had many opportunities to relax at UNE, but when I do have a coffee, it is usually in the Cafe Life courtyard, where I enjoy seeing people engaging, which I love.

We’re thrilled to welcome Kim to the team and can’t wait to see how her leadership shapes the next chapter of UNE Life.

Good luck, Kim — we’re lucky to have you.