We are excited to welcome Professor Judith Mair to The Hotel School Australia as she joins us as our new Academic Director and Associate Dean (Education).
Beyond academic leadership, Judith’s appointment represents a strategic step forward for THSA. With her extensive experience in higher education and the global tourism industry, she brings a depth of insight that will refine how we design, deliver and evolve our curriculum.
When asked about her goals for THSA, Judith shares, “I’m focused on building on the strong foundations already in place and creating space for our academic staff to collaborate, share ideas and strengthen how we teach and support our students.”
With over 20 years in higher education and an extensive background in the global tourism industry, Judith brings academic leadership that is both research-driven and industry informed. She has held senior roles at leading universities and is widely published in areas such as event sustainability, legacy planning and the social impacts of tourism.
Before academia, she worked in the Scottish tourism sector with organisations including Visit Scotland and the Classic Britain Hotel Consortium. The perspective she brings to THSA elevates our approach to delivering education that is both industry-informed and academically rigorous.
“One of my biggest passions is connecting industry and academia — we have so much to learn from each other,” she says. 
Looking ahead, she’s especially excited about what the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games could mean for THSA students and staff.
“Events like the Olympics present incredible opportunities — from research to hands-on experience. With my background in event sustainability and legacy, I’m looking forward to helping place THSA right at the heart of it.”
This chapter marks a renewed focus on academic excellence – strengthening how we teach, how we learn, and how we continue to grow as a University. We are thrilled to welcome her to THSA and look forward to embracing the collaborative mindset and forward-thinking vision she brings to our community.
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