A leader in the development of international higher education in Australia and the Asia-Pacific has been appointed as the new Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the University of Newcastle's Singapore operation - UON Singapore Pte Ltd.

Robert Cochrane joins UON Singapore following a career managing and leading transnational education projects for universities and AusAid including the Australia Pacific Technical College in Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

He is a Chartered Professional Accountant with almost 20 years leadership experience as a senior university executive in educational development projects in Asia involving a number of Australian universities.

Mr Cochrane also led the creation of a new private university in Malaysia - a collaboration between Monash University and a major publicly listed Malaysian company.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor and Chair of UON Singapore, Professor Nicholas Saunders, said Mr Cochrane would bring great experience and skill to the University's Singapore operations.

"Robert Cochrane's depth of experience and leadership in the higher education sector, in particular in transnational education project initiation and management, make him the ideal person to lead our Singapore operations," Professor Saunders said.

"The role of Pro Vice-Chancellor and CEO is vital in providing leadership and strategic direction as we grow our successful Singapore operations."

Mr Cochrane said he looked forward to contributing to the further development of the University's Singapore operations.

"The potential for growth in student numbers and the development of strong research networks throughout Singapore and the region is very promising," Mr Cochrane said.

"I'm looking forward to working with PSB Academy to further build the presence of the University of Newcastle in the region and grow the campus."

Mr Cochrane will take up his position in August.

The position was made available following the recent retirement of Professor Tim Roberts as Dean and CEO of UON Singapore.

"Professor Roberts has been instrumental in building a strong Singapore presence for the University. His enthusiasm and commitment to the University and to staff and students has been outstanding," Professor Saunders said.

Mr Cochrane is only available for interview between 10.30am and 12pm on Thursday 3 July. Please call Blythe Hamilton to arrange a suitable time.