Professional services firm PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) Canada appointed the dean of George Brown College’s Centre for Business as an external director of its board. Dr. Ian Austin is among four such appointments, marking the first external board directors in the firm’s history.
Austin has been a leader in the post-secondary sector for more than 25 years — a career he describes as his passion.
“As the dean of a large business school, I bring the combined elements of business and education to the board directorship,” he said. “That brings the external perspective, which I think is critical for the board and the way decisions are made.”
Austin also brings a background in accounting and finance and a doctorate with a specialization in governance.
On May 31, PwC announced the appointment of four external directors. PwC says the new directors are professionals who “have a deep understanding of how organizations should function and will share relevant experiences on how to achieve an improved environment for our people, our clients and the communities we serve.”
Austin’s appointment is another demonstration of the college’s strong ties to industry and our role in shaping positive and meaningful change. George Brown's students benefit from the industry perspectives and relationships college leaders gain from these opportunities.
Austin applauds PwC’s move to appoint external directors and says it demonstrates a “clear intention of ensuring that the external perspective is brought to bear in its decision-making process,” he said. “And that is critical for any progressive organization in the 21st century.”
