Gotafe Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

GOTAFE has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Gotafe provides real-world learning experiences and flexible, hands-on training across regional Victoria, fostering community and empowering students for trade careers and reskilling.

Leadership Roles at Gotafe

  • Chief Executive Officer - Peter Ryan
  • Acting Chief Executive Officer - Phillip Paterson
  • Chief Financial Officer - Teresa Paris
  • Chief Information Officer - Barnaby Ling
  • Peter Ryan - Chief Executive Officer

    Peter Ryan, the Chief Executive Officer at Gotafe, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Ryan oversees the delivery of over 250 accredited courses to nearly 20,000 students across regional Victoria, ensuring alignment with the company's mission of providing real-world learning experiences. This leadership role involves fostering innovation among experienced, skilled staff to develop customized training programs for students, industry clients, and the community. Ryan's focus extends to strengthening collaborative ventures that provide secondary school students with vocational education pathways into trade careers. The Chief Executive Officer also guides the expansion and effectiveness of the Skills and Jobs Centres, positioning them as essential resources for job seekers and workers needing reskilling or retraining. Peter Ryan champions the creation of a safe, supportive environment where students can grow and achieve their potential, directly impacting Gotafe's reputation as a leading tertiary education provider.

    Phillip Paterson - Acting Chief Executive Officer

    Phillip Paterson, the Acting Chief Executive Officer at Gotafe, manages immediate operational directives and strategic continuity during a transitional period. Paterson ensures the seamless delivery of Gotafe's extensive educational offerings, which include over 250 courses serving approximately 20,000 students throughout regional Victoria. This role involves maintaining the high standards of hands-on training and real-world learning experiences that define the company. The Acting Chief Executive Officer collaborates with experienced staff to uphold the quality and innovation of training programs tailored for students, industry, and the community. Paterson's responsibilities include supporting existing collaborative ventures with secondary schools, facilitating vocational education pathways, and ensuring the ongoing functionality of the Skills and Jobs Centres. Phillip Paterson's leadership ensures that Gotafe continues to provide a supportive and challenging environment for student development and community engagement, reinforcing its position as a key educational institution.

    Teresa Paris - Chief Financial Officer

    Teresa Paris, the Chief Financial Officer at Gotafe, directs the financial strategy and fiscal management for the organization. Paris oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation to support Gotafe's extensive educational operations, including over 250 courses and nearly 20,000 students across regional Victoria. This leadership position ensures the financial viability and sustainability of the company's commitment to providing real-world learning experiences and flexible, hands-on training. The Chief Financial Officer manages financial reporting, compliance, and risk management, safeguarding the company's assets and optimizing financial performance. Teresa Paris plays a key role in evaluating the financial implications of new initiatives, such as collaborative ventures with secondary schools and the expansion of Skills and Jobs Centres. By ensuring sound financial stewardship, Paris enables Gotafe to continue investing in its experienced staff and innovative programs, fostering a supportive environment for student success and community impact. Teresa Paris's financial acumen underpins Gotafe's capacity for quality assured training delivery.

    Barnaby Ling - Chief Information Officer

    Barnaby Ling, the Chief Information Officer at Gotafe, architects and manages the organization's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Ling oversees the implementation and maintenance of IT systems that support over 250 courses and nearly 20,000 enrolled students across regional Victoria. This critical function ensures the smooth operation of Gotafe's learning management systems, administrative platforms, and digital resources, enabling flexible, hands-on training. The Chief Information Officer drives innovation in technology adoption to enhance the effectiveness of training programs for students, industry clients, and the community. Barnaby Ling's role is integral to supporting collaborative ventures with secondary schools and the operational efficiency of the Skills and Jobs Centres by providing robust technological solutions. By ensuring secure and accessible digital environments, Ling fosters a supportive space for student growth and facilitates the company's mission of leading-edge vocational education. Barnaby Ling's strategic technology leadership directly supports Gotafe's commitment to quality assured training.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gotafe Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gotafe?
    Gotafe is led by Peter Ryan (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Phillip Paterson (Acting Chief Executive Officer) and Teresa Paris (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Gotafe’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gotafe includes leaders such as Peter Ryan (Chief Executive Officer), Phillip Paterson (Acting Chief Executive Officer), Teresa Paris (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gotafe have?
    Gotafe has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gotafe’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gotafe includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer.