Flexible work hours have proved the winning formula for achieving incredible workplace results, out-going Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Director said recently.

In his first posting outside south-east Queensland, Associate Professor Greg Whateley moved from the Gold Coast in 2000 and immediately promoted a workplace culture built on freedom and autonomy.

“I encourage staff to adopt whatever work schedule that suited them and their students. The long-term rewards are clearly evident in the growth achieved at the Conservatorium in the past four years,” he said.

“Overall I believe that if you fence people in you tend to generate a workplace full of sheep.” Figures relating to an increased performance and media profile, alongside the number of auditions and postgraduate enrolments, indicate CQCM has achieved exceptional growth during 2000-2003.

Student numbers have increased from 86 in 1999 to 432 in 2003, with current postgraduate enrolments totalling 130 (compare to zero in 1999).

“Flexible work hours develop an attitude that encourages staff to do things they didn’t think they could." “Changing the normal 9-4 mentality allows staff to do things they could only dream about doing in the past." Other initiatives implemented during Professor Whateley’s term include developing a worldwide presence via on-line teaching methods, increasing operational locations from one to 10 sites and creating an edu-tourism partnership with Hamilton Island Resort.

Professor Whateley moves to Sydney on October 23 where he will continue his Arts consultancy practice.

A Director’s Farewell Concert will be held at the CQCM theatre on October 18 from 8pm, with guest performances from CQCM staff and students, as well as Simone de Haan, Raelene Isbester and Graeme Connors. For ticket booking details please call Kim MacKenzie on 4940 7800.

Picture caption: CQCM Director Associate Professor Greg Whateley has achieved incredible results since moving to Mackay in 2000.