La Trobe University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

La Trobe University has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, information technology, academic leadership, information security, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to addressing global challenges, La Trobe University provides students with practical experience and career readiness, aiming to make a significant impact both locally and globally through innovative research and industry partnerships.

Leadership Roles at La Trobe University

  • Chief Operating Officer - Vesna Stefanovski
  • Vice-Chancellor and President - Theodore Farrell
  • President - Dion Ellul
  • Chief Information Officer - Shainal Kavar
  • Chief Information Security Officer - David Willett
  • Vesna Stefanovski - Chief Operating Officer

    Vesna Stefanovski, the Chief Operating Officer at La Trobe University, directs all operational functions critical to the university's strategic objectives. Overseeing administrative departments, campus infrastructure, and resource allocation, Stefanovski ensures efficient service delivery across all university operations. This leadership role involves optimizing internal processes to support academic and research endeavors, directly impacting student experience and faculty support. By managing budgets and operational expenditures, Vesna Stefanovski drives financial sustainability and operational excellence. The Chief Operating Officer's purview extends to enhancing the physical and digital campus environment, fostering a productive and engaging atmosphere for the entire university community. This executive ensures seamless integration of services, supporting La Trobe's mission of community engagement and sustainability.

    Theodore Farrell - Vice-Chancellor and President

    Theodore Farrell, the Vice-Chancellor and President at La Trobe University, provides overarching strategic direction and leadership for the entire institution. This pivotal role involves setting the academic vision, driving research excellence, and ensuring the university's financial health and operational effectiveness. Farrell champions La Trobe's commitment to addressing global challenges through innovative research and industry partnerships, fostering an environment of academic inquiry and discovery. By engaging with government, industry, and community stakeholders, Theodore Farrell strengthens the university's external relationships and impact. The Vice-Chancellor and President oversees all academic and administrative functions, guiding the university's mission to provide high-quality education and make a significant contribution to society. Farrell's leadership ensures La Trobe University remains at the forefront of higher education.

    Dion Ellul - President

    Dion Ellul, the President at La Trobe University, leads key institutional initiatives and represents the university in significant external engagements. This role focuses on advancing La Trobe's strategic priorities, particularly in areas of community engagement and sustainability, aligning with the university's mission to make a positive local and global impact. Ellul drives collaborative efforts with industry partners and community organizations, fostering opportunities for practical student experience and career readiness. By championing the university's values, Dion Ellul enhances La Trobe's reputation and reach. The President oversees specific strategic projects and stakeholder relations, ensuring that the university's operations and outreach effectively serve its educational and research objectives. Ellul's leadership strengthens La Trobe's position as a forward-thinking educational institution.

    Shainal Kavar - Chief Information Officer

    Shainal Kavar, the Chief Information Officer at La Trobe University, architects and executes the institution's comprehensive information technology strategy. This involves overseeing the development, implementation, and maintenance of all digital infrastructure, ensuring robust and scalable systems to support teaching, learning, and research. Kavar's responsibilities include managing IT services, cybersecurity protocols, and data management, directly contributing to the university's operational efficiency and innovation. By fostering technological advancements, Shainal Kavar enhances the student and staff digital experience, supporting flexible online learning options. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic and administrative leaders to align technology initiatives with La Trobe's broader goals of addressing global challenges and promoting sustainability. Kavar drives digital transformation initiatives across the university.
    Shainal Kavar

    David Willett - Chief Information Security Officer

    David Willett, the Chief Information Security Officer at La Trobe University, directs the comprehensive information security program to safeguard the university's digital assets and sensitive data. This involves developing and implementing robust security policies, procedures, and technologies to protect against cyber threats and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Willett's leadership ensures the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information systems, critical for maintaining student privacy and research data security. By proactively identifying and mitigating security risks, David Willett supports the university's commitment to providing secure online learning environments and protecting intellectual property. The Chief Information Security Officer collaborates closely with the Chief Information Officer and other leaders to embed security best practices across all university operations, reinforcing trust and reliability.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding La Trobe University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads La Trobe University?
    La Trobe University is led by Vesna Stefanovski (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Theodore Farrell (Vice-Chancellor and President) and Dion Ellul (President).
    Who is part of La Trobe University’s executive team?
    The executive team of La Trobe University includes leaders such as Vesna Stefanovski (Chief Operating Officer), Theodore Farrell (Vice-Chancellor and President), Dion Ellul (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does La Trobe University have?
    La Trobe University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in La Trobe University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of La Trobe University includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Vice-Chancellor and President, President, Chief Information Officer, Chief Information Security Officer.