Professor Jenny Dixon has been appointed as Dean of the National Institute of Creative Arts and Industries (NICAI) at The University of Auckland.

Professor Dixon holds a BSc in Geography and an MSc in Resource Management from the University of Canterbury, and a DPhil from the University of Waikato.

She has had a distinguished career in teaching and research, leading multi-disciplinary project teams funded by the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology, Crown Research Institutes and local authorities.

Her research has focused on residential intensification, sustainability, urban governance and planning. She is also a recognised leader in the planning profession. Through her work as an academic educator and former President of the New Zealand Planning Institute, she has made a significant contribution to planning education in New Zealand.

Since joining The University of Auckland in 2001 as Professor of Planning, Professor Dixon has held a number of leadership positions including Head of the Department of Planning, Head of the School of Architecture and Planning, Associate Dean (Research and Postgraduate) and Associate Dean (International). She has been Acting Dean of NICAI since March of this year.

Professor Dixon sees her appointment as a significant opportunity to cement the identity of the Faculty as an international leader of distinction in the creative arts and professional sectors.

"The research and practice emanating from the unique mix of the disciplines of architecture, dance studies, fine arts, music and planning has the potential to enhance and enrich the quality of everyday life in our cities and settlements.

“Within the Faculty, an immediate priority is to pursue several new research initiatives. Across the University, NICAI is leading the development of a University of Auckland collaborative research programme on Auckland’s future as a sustainable city.”

Professor Dixon says she very much looks forward to the opportunities and challenges of leading such a diverse and talented group of scholars, artists, practitioners and performers.