Derek Mccormack

Derek is the former Vice Chancellor of Auckland University of Technology (AUT), where he led the university’s transformation and growth from 2004 to 2022. He began his career as a biochemist at the University of Otago and Otago Polytechnic, before moving into academic leadership and tertiary education advocacy.

In the late 1980s, Derek served as President of the New Zealand Association of Staff in Tertiary Education and contributed to national education reform through roles on various government committees, including the establishment of the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

He joined Auckland Institute of Technology in 1991, later becoming General Manager, and played a key role in its transition to university status. Derek was appointed Deputy Vice Chancellor of AUT in 2000 and became Vice Chancellor in 2004, leading the university for 18 years.

Derek has also chaired several national organisations, including the New Zealand Academy of Sport, Stroke Aotearoa New Zealand, the New Zealand Vice Chancellors Committee, and Universities New Zealand.