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As UOW marks its 50th Anniversary, few voices exemplify its global impact quite like Jennifer Ng’s. 

Since joining UOW in 2015 through the acquisition of the Community College of City University (now ), Jennifer has been instrumental in expanding the university's presence across Asia.

Initially serving as the President of UOW College Hong Kong, Jennifer's leadership skills led to her appointment as (UOWGE) CEO Asia in 2019, overseeing operations in both Malaysia and Hong Kong. Her tenure has been marked by significant milestones, including securing a Government Land Grant for the UOWCHK Tai Wai Campus and the elevation of KL University College to private university status.

What stands out in Jennifer's reflections is the consistent culture of collegiality and support she's experienced throughout leadership changes. "UOW has a strong foundation and legacies of established values and systems which will endure the course of time," Jennifer notes.

As UOW looks to the future, Jennifer envisions both Malaysian and Hong Kong entities developing into mature institutions that UOW can take pride in, furthering the university's mission to create meaningful impact across the globe.

"The most rewarding aspect of my role is that I receive support and appreciation from UOWGE/UOW as well as the support from local colleagues in Malaysia and Hong Kong in performing my functions. I also gladly enjoy support from local authorities in my job. In 2016, we were awarded the Government Land Grant for establishing the present UOWCHK Tai Wai Campus. In 2023, the KL University College was upgraded to private university status."

Describe the atmosphere when you started at UOW...

"My work in the UOW Group started with the acquisition of UOWCHK by UOW. Although the change of 'parentship' could bring along anxiety and a feeling of uncertainty, I felt a warmth of collegiality and support from the management team of UOW Australia. I was fully supported by the UOW VC, DVC and UOWGE Group CEO. In fact, Professor Wellings, the then UOW VC said to me 'this is a marriage in heaven'."

In what ways has UOW changed, or remained the same during your time?

"To me UOW has remained the same in the past decade despite changes in top management. Work practices, culture and focus (such as research, academic quality, innovation, student experience) and respect for values like diversities, courage and other corporate values are upheld all the time. UOW has a strong foundation and legacies of established values and systems which will endure the course of time."

Which key relationships stand out for you?

"I work closely under , UOWGE Group CEO, Professor Joe Chicaro and Professor Alex Frino. I still maintain contact with Professor Chicaro and Marisa is more than a boss. She is also a friend."

How do you envision the future of UOW?

"My outlook into the future is that both UOW Malaysia and UOW College Hong Kong will develop into mature and well-established tertiary education institutions contributing to society in their missions that UOW can take pride in. I believe UOW will continue its present course to become a prominent university both in Australia and in the world."