Alexis Roitman has resigned from her position as University of Sydney Union (USU) CEO. Hired last year, Honi Soit understands that Roitman was on a six month probation period contract.
As per USU regulations, an Acting CEO will be appointed shortly. The USU has named Director of Commercial Operations Jessica Reed for the role.
Honi was sent two conflicting press releases today, the latter of which confirmed Roitman’s resignation. USU President Connor Wherrett has clarified that the first of these was an ‘old document’ that was sent inadvertently.
The timing of Roitman’s resignation is particularly unusual due to the COVID-19 crisis and her probation period, suggesting the split may not have been on friendly terms. The announcement follows widespread criticism of the USU for recent financial decisions made in response to the coronavirus.
Such decisions include the standing down of the majority of the USU’s outlet employees last month, as well as a 40% staff wage cut announced two weeks ago. The USU has also faced backlash for a lack of transparency in their Board meetings surrounding the aforementioned pay cuts.
Honi will update this article as more details come in.
More to come.
