Patricia Naisara takes up key workforce strategy role at USP

The University of the South Pacific (USP) has appointed Patricia Naisara as its executive director People and Workforce Strategy, bringing extensive human resources, legal and leadership experience to the university.

Ms Naisara, who currently heads the human resources department at Westpac Fiji, will officially take up the position on January 25, 2027.

She brings experience in workforce planning, talent development, employee relations, organisational restructuring, succession planning and employee wellbeing.

At Westpac Fiji, she has overseen collective agreement negotiations, organisational restructuring and initiatives aimed at strengthening employee engagement and workplace culture.

A commercial lawyer by profession, Ms Naisara has expertise in employment relations, corporate compliance, banking and finance, property transactions and investment.

She is also a USP graduate, holding Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws degrees, as well as a Professional Diploma in Legal Practice. She was admitted to the High Court of Fiji in 2013.

Beyond her professional career, Ms Naisara has made significant contributions to gender equality and women's empowerment.

She chairs the Fiji Women’s Fund Governance Board, serves as vice-chair of the Women’s Entrepreneurial Business Council of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation, and is president of the Fiji Women Lawyers Association for 2026.

Reflecting on her appointment, Ms Naisara said she was “excited for this new chapter with USP, an opportunity to step into something new, challenge myself, keep growing, and contribute to an institution that means so much to our Pacific.”

USP said it looked forward to her contribution to expanding opportunities for students, staff, member countries and stakeholders.