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60 seconds with … Kim Langfield-Smith

27 February 2008

 

Name: Kim Langfield-Smith
Org. Unit: Faculty of Business and Economics
Title: Professor of Management Accounting and Deputy Dean (Research)

How long have you been with Monash University?

I have had two periods of employment at Monash. The first was for about five years in the 1990s, and now I have been at Monash for about six years.

Prior to working at Monash, where were you located and what was your role?

I was Head of the School of Business at La Trobe University.

What exciting challenges are ahead in your current role?

I am new to the Deputy Dean role, having just moved on from the Head of Department of Accounting and Finance. My new position is largely a strategic role, working on Faculty research policy to motivate staff and create incentives to engage in and publish quality research and apply for high profile external research grants. This is very challenging. We now know that the RQF will not proceed, and I look forward to learning about the new metrics-based system that may be introduced and working out how we need to adjust our systems and approaches to accommodate this.

What is it about your job that holds your interest or is particularly satisfying?

I am involved in several Faculty and University committees which allow me to interact with a range of enthusiastic and committed people, and to work with them to bring about change. This is very satisfying.

Of all the places in the world you would like to re-visit, where is your favourite destination and why?

I love the North West area of Tasmania, particularly Cradle Mountain National Park. I have been there many many times in winter over the past 20 years. It is so relaxing to walk for hours in the wilderness, in the brisk wind and cold. It clears the head, and there is no mobile phone coverage!

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

A mentor once told me to not "beat myself up".

What is something about yourself that most of your colleagues wouldn't know?

I do like to dance -- but perhaps that is not a secret?