La Trobe University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Dedicated to fostering academic excellence and global research impact, La Trobe University empowers diverse student populations through innovative education, sustainable practices, and strong industry partnerships across the Australian landscape.

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 W.
  • Vesna Stefanovski - Chief Operating Officer

    Vesna Stefanovski, the Chief Operating Officer at La Trobe University, directs all internal administrative functions and campus infrastructure projects. Overseeing the financial sustainability of university operations, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that resource allocation aligns with long-term institutional goals. This leadership role involves managing complex supply chains and facility maintenance across regional and metropolitan campuses. By optimizing operational workflows, Vesna Stefanovski directly impacts the efficiency of academic delivery and student support services. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with the Board to implement strategic initiatives that enhance the overall campus experience. Through rigorous oversight of administrative departments, Stefanovski secures the operational foundation necessary for academic success. This position requires constant coordination with various stakeholders to maintain high standards of service delivery. Ultimately, Stefanovski drives the operational excellence required to support the university's mission of providing high-quality education to a diverse student body.

    Theodore Farrell - Vice-Chancellor and President

    Theodore Farrell, the Vice-Chancellor and President at La Trobe University, directs the overarching academic vision and strategic direction of the institution. Overseeing the university's research agenda and community engagement initiatives, the Vice-Chancellor and President ensures that academic programs address critical global challenges. This leadership role involves representing the university in national and international forums to foster industry partnerships and secure research funding. By championing sustainability and social responsibility, Theodore Farrell directly impacts the university's reputation and market position. The Vice-Chancellor and President collaborates with the Board and senior leadership to execute long-term growth strategies that prioritize student career readiness. Through the promotion of inclusive education, Farrell supports the diverse needs of Indigenous and international student populations. This position requires balancing academic freedom with institutional accountability to maintain high standards of excellence. Ultimately, Farrell drives the strategic initiatives that define the university's role as a leader in higher education.

    Dion Ellul - President

    Dion Ellul, the President at La Trobe University, directs the institutional governance and external relations strategy to enhance the university's global footprint. Overseeing the development of strategic alliances with industry partners, the President ensures that academic offerings remain aligned with evolving market demands. This leadership role involves managing high-level stakeholder relationships and promoting the university's research impact on a global scale. By fostering a culture of innovation and career readiness, Dion Ellul directly impacts the employability of graduates across various disciplines. The President collaborates with the executive team to streamline decision-making processes and improve institutional agility. Through the expansion of regional and international outreach, Ellul supports the university's mission to address global challenges through practical experience. This position requires a focus on long-term sustainability and community engagement to ensure the university's continued relevance. Ultimately, Ellul drives the strategic partnerships that elevate the university's standing in the competitive education landscape.

    Shainal Kavar - Chief Information Officer

    Shainal Kavar, the Chief Information Officer at La Trobe University, architects the digital transformation strategy to support modern learning environments. Overseeing the integration of advanced educational technologies, the Chief Information Officer ensures that digital infrastructure meets the needs of both domestic and international students. This leadership role involves managing large-scale data systems and cloud-based platforms that facilitate flexible online learning options. By modernizing the university's technological framework, Shainal Kavar directly impacts the accessibility and quality of academic resources. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with faculty leaders to implement digital tools that enhance research capabilities and industry partnerships. Through the deployment of scalable IT solutions, Kavar supports the university's commitment to innovation and global connectivity. This position requires constant adaptation to emerging digital trends to maintain a competitive edge in the higher education sector. Ultimately, Kavar drives the digital evolution necessary for sustained institutional growth.
    Shainal Kavar

    David W. - Chief Information Security Officer

    David W., the Chief Information Security Officer at La Trobe University, architects the comprehensive cybersecurity framework protecting institutional data and research assets. Overseeing the implementation of robust threat detection systems, the Chief Information Security Officer ensures the integrity of digital learning environments and administrative networks. This leadership role involves managing risk assessment protocols and compliance standards to safeguard sensitive information across all campuses. By fortifying the university's digital perimeter, David W. directly impacts the security of student and faculty data. The Chief Information Security Officer collaborates with the IT department to mitigate cyber threats and ensure business continuity during potential security incidents. Through the development of proactive defense strategies, W. supports the university's commitment to safe and reliable online education. This position requires constant vigilance against evolving digital risks to maintain institutional trust. Ultimately, W. drives the security measures necessary to protect the university's intellectual property and digital infrastructure.

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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.