Chief Executive Officer, Victorian TAFE Association

• Lead the voice of Victoria's public TAFE sector
• Shape policy, and influence across government and industry
• Inspire a great team in a values-led, high-trust culture

The Victorian TAFE Association (VTA) is the trusted peak body representing Victoria's public vocational education providers - 12 TAFE institutes, four dual-sector universities, and AMES Australia. We advocate boldly and constructively to government, industry and community, and lead initiatives that shape the future of vocational education and training. With the sector entering a critical reform and election cycle, we are seeking a new CEO to build on strong momentum and lead the next era of impact, visibility, and strategic influence.

This is a rare leadership role at the intersection of education, government, and policy. As CEO, you will:

• Lead VTA's advocacy, engagement and thought leadership across government, industry and the Victorian TAFE network
• Represent a unified voice for public TAFE on policy reform, funding, and strategic priorities
• Guide a small, high-performing team in delivering programs, research, events and services that matter to members
• Empower member institutions to collaborate on shared challenges and opportunities
• Shape the conversation on workforce, skills, and the future of training across Victoria and beyond

To be considered for this role you will be an authentic and collaborative leader who is calm under pressure, sharp on policy, and deeply credible with government and stakeholders. You will bring:

• Experience as a senior executive in a public, advocacy or member-based setting
• A track record of success in government relations, policy influence or VET sector leadership
• Deep understanding of how to navigate complex political and policy environments
• A leadership style that is enabling, values-driven and empowering
• Strong skills in advocacy, member engagement, and public positioning

Your sector background could include vocational or higher education, government, skills and training, peak bodies, unions, workforce policy, or industry-facing leadership. Understanding the nuances of government decision-making is an advantage, as is the ability to quickly earn the confidence of diverse stakeholders.

This is a pivotal moment for the public TAFE sector in Victoria. With shifting policy landscapes, funding pressures, and growing expectations from government, industry and community, the need for a confident and strategic voice for TAFE has never been greater.

The VTA plays a unique role as a connector, advocate and enabler across a complex network of institutions, and the next CEO will be instrumental in elevating that influence. From future skills and workforce transformation to national policy dialogue and sector reform, this is a chance to lead a high-impact agenda that shapes the future of vocational education in Victoria.

To view the Success Profile for this opportunity, please copy and paste the following link into your browser:

To apply, please click 'apply now' and upload your CV and Cover Letter. For any questions not outlined in the PD and for a confidential discussion, please contact Natasha Diamond on or Carla Bent on

Davidson acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and live. We are also committed to equal opportunity and strive to promote diversity, inclusion, belonging, flexibility, and accessibility in all that we do.

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Applications close on Sunday 31st August at 11.59pm.