Leading researcher elected to international employment relations association
A leading researcher at the University of Sydney Business School’s Discipline of Work & Organisational Studies, Professor Cooper was confirmed and elected by the ILERA Council as President-elect overnight.
ILERA was established in 1967 to promote the study of labour and employment relations throughout the world. The Association has over 900 members worldwide and 38 national associations.
Professor Rae Cooper was last night named President of ILERA.
With research expertise in gender, work and employment relations, Professor Cooper was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2019 for her contributions to higher education and to workplace policy and practice.
“I’m rather overwhelmed both by the election and by the messages of support from colleagues across the globe,” Professor Cooper said.
“I am very proud to be representing the distinct industrial relations traditions of Australia and the University of Sydney Business School more specifically. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated many urgent issues that must be addressed in labour markets across the globe I look forward to serving as ILERA’s President to advance research solutions to these pressing issues.”
Dean of the Business School, Professor Greg Whitwell, congratulated Professor Cooper on her appointment.
“The pandemic may have shut international borders, but it has not prevented our researchers continuing to collaborate with international colleagues,” Professor Whitwell said.
“Rae’s election speaks to her dedication to pursuing an engaged research agenda and the Business School’s world-class reputation for excellence.”
Professor Marian Baird and Professor Rae Cooper at a graduation ceremony in academic gowns.
Head of the Discipline of Work & Organisational Studies, Professor Marian Baird, echoed similar sentiments.
“In the current COVID world where more attention is now being paid to the organisation of employment, and the conditions and wages of all workers, ILERA is the leading organisation for a voice in these matters,” Professor Baird said.
“I know Rae will be an excellent ILERA President. It is a great honour to Rae and also to the Discipline of Work & Organisational Studies, which is recognised internationally as being a world-leading industrial relations school.”
Professor Cooper and Professor Baird are Co-Directors of the Women & Work Research Group at the University of Sydney Business School.
