A 1998 graduate of Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Mr Way has since built a distinguished career, leading teams around the world and using business as a force for positive change.
“Ben Way is a Macquarie graduate whose career embodies global leadership underpinned by purpose,” said Vice-Chancellor Professor S Bruce Dowton.
“He has shown how business success can be harnessed to drive social outcomes, and he has remained closely connected to the University through philanthropy, mentorship and advocacy for educational access.”
Honorary doctorate recipient Ben Way, centre, with Chancellor Martin Parkinson and Vice-Chancellor Professor S Bruce Dowton.
Mr Way is currently Head of Macquarie Asset Management and a member of the Macquarie Group Executive Committee. His career has included leadership roles across Asia and North America, including CEO of Macquarie’s operations in Asia and Chair and CEO of Taiwan Broadband Communications.
He is also Chair of Global Australians and a 2024 recipient of the Global Australian Award for Finance and Investment.
In his address to graduates at the ceremony, Mr Way spoke of the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks.
“One of the biggest myths is that failure is the opposite of success,” he said. “It is not – [failure] is the entry fee and the very best performers I have observed do not avoid it. They absorb it, learn, and go again. So, miss bravely, and with intention. Just don’t stop trying.”
Throughout his career, Mr Way has leveraged his financial expertise to create social impact through strategic philanthropy and mentorship.
In 2015, Mr Way and his wife, Macquarie alumna Samantha Soranson, established the Way–Soranson Scholarship to support Indigenous students studying teaching. This gift continues to change lives through financial support and international study opportunities.
He also serves on the board of Hong Kong NGO Mother’s Choice and co-founded Good Financial, a fintech initiative supporting migrant workers.
Speaking to graduates, Mr Way reflected on the urgent challenges facing the world today and the opportunity to be part of meaningful change.
“The world is a place where real and urgent challenges exist – climate change, inequality, misinformation,” he said. “But so do the tools, knowledge and networks needed to address them.”
The degree was conferred by Chancellor Martin Parkinson as part of the University’s October graduation season.
