Chief Operating Officer

Bill Parasiris MBA, GAICD is a senior executive with over 30 years’ experience leading complex organisations through large-scale operational transformation, financial discipline, and enterprise-wide integration in the higher education sector. As Chief Operating Officer, he is a key member of the University’s Senior Executive Team, providing strategic, financial, and operational leadership to support excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement.

Reporting to the Vice‑Chancellor and President, Bill has enterprise-wide responsibility for operational performance and the effective delivery of core services. His portfolio includes, workforce and people strategy, digital services and cyber security, data and business intelligence, finance and procurement, campus development and the delivery of major strategic initiatives through the portfolio management office. He is known for aligning these functions into a cohesive operating model that improves service quality, transparency, and institutional performance in support of academic and student success.

Bill is recognised for strengthening organisational efficiency and long-term sustainability through disciplined financial management, strong governance, and evidence-based decision-making. He plays a central role in translating strategy into executable plans—aligning investment, workforce capability, systems, and governance with the University’s long-term objectives—while maintaining financial strength and enabling targeted investment in teaching, research, and innovation.

He leads the modernisation of core systems, the uplift of cyber security, and the use of analytics to enhance decision-making, transparency, and service delivery. He has also driven major campus and precinct developments, delivering complex, multi‑billion‑dollar infrastructure programs that support research excellence, innovation, and regional growth.

A strong people leader, Bill fosters a safe, inclusive, and high-performing culture aligned with the University’s values. He is known for building capable executive teams, mentoring senior leaders, and driving continuous improvement in professional standards, service design, and operational outcomes.

Bill is a strong advocate for sustainability and responsible stewardship, advancing initiatives in carbon neutrality, environmental performance, and socially responsible development. He works closely with government, industry, and community partners to deliver outcomes that create lasting impact for Western Sydney.

He is also actively engaged in community and industry leadership, contributing to organisations that support economic development, local business growth, and regional collaboration. Through these roles, Bill strengthens partnerships between the University, industry, and the broader community, helping to drive inclusive growth and long-term prosperity across Western Sydney.

Bill holds a Master of Business Administration and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He maintains strong relationships with government, industry, and higher education partners and represents the University nationally and internationally, contributing to strategic partnerships and positioning the institution as a leader in operational excellence and innovation.