Melbourne Polytechnic Executive and Leadership Team

Frances Coppolillo, the Chief Executive Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, directs the institution's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Coppolillo guides the expansion of diverse learning programs, from certificates to higher education degrees, across fields like agriculture, engineering, hospitality, and the arts. This leadership ensures the integration of innovative, hands-on practical skills with modern theoretical learning, aligning with the institution's mission to enhance career pathways. Frances Coppolillo oversees the development and implementation of policies that support both local and international students, fostering an environment conducive to academic and professional growth. The CEO's focus extends to strengthening industry partnerships and ensuring the institution remains at the forefront of vocational and higher education delivery, particularly with initiatives like Free TAFE courses. This role is central to maintaining Melbourne Polytechnic's reputation, including its recognition as the Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2024 Victorian Training Awards.

Priya Kapoor, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, supports the strategic financial management and fiscal health of the institution. Kapoor assists in the oversight of budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation across diverse academic and operational areas, including engineering and hospitality programs. This role is integral to ensuring the financial sustainability that underpins Melbourne Polytechnic's commitment to providing innovative, hands-on learning experiences. Priya Kapoor's responsibilities involve contributing to financial reporting, compliance, and the management of financial risks, supporting the institution's growth and its ability to offer scholarships and job placement services. By collaborating with other C-suite leaders, Kapoor helps to align financial strategies with the educational mission, ensuring resources are effectively deployed to enhance student career pathways. The Deputy CFO plays a key part in maintaining the financial integrity necessary for Melbourne Polytechnic's continued success and expansion, including initiatives like Free TAFE courses.

Mark McNamara, the Chief Operating Officer & Board Secretary at Melbourne Polytechnic, oversees the comprehensive operational framework and governance structures of the institution. McNamara directs the efficient management of resources and facilities that support a wide array of programs, from agriculture to the arts, ensuring operational excellence across all departments. This dual role involves managing the administrative functions that facilitate the delivery of practical skills and theoretical learning, thereby enhancing student career pathways. Mark McNamara's responsibilities as Board Secretary include ensuring effective communication and compliance with governance standards, supporting the strategic decision-making processes of the governing board. The COO's leadership is critical in optimizing internal processes, managing budgets, and ensuring that Melbourne Polytechnic operates effectively to serve its local and international student body. McNamara's oversight contributes significantly to the institution's ability to expand its offerings, including Free TAFE courses, and maintain its high standards of education.

Channa Jayasinha, the Director, Digital Technology Experience & Chief Information Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, architects the institution's digital transformation and technology infrastructure. Jayasinha drives the enhancement of digital learning platforms and student experience, ensuring seamless integration of technology across all academic and administrative functions. This involves overseeing the development and maintenance of IT services that support diverse educational offerings, from agriculture to the arts. Channa Jayasinha's responsibilities include managing cybersecurity protocols and data integrity, safeguarding sensitive student and institutional information. The CIO's strategic initiatives focus on leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency and expand access to educational resources for both local and international students. By championing digital innovation, Jayasinha directly contributes to Melbourne Polytechnic's commitment to providing modern, hands-on learning experiences and supporting robust career pathways.

Aaron Quarrell, the Acting Director, Ict Services & Chief Information Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, manages the day-to-day operations of the institution's information and communications technology services. Quarrell ensures the reliability and performance of critical IT systems that underpin Melbourne Polytechnic's diverse educational programs, including those in engineering and hospitality. This role involves direct oversight of ICT support functions, troubleshooting technical issues, and implementing solutions to enhance user experience for students and staff. Aaron Quarrell's focus is on maintaining robust technological foundations that support the delivery of practical skills and theoretical learning across all faculties. The Acting CIO plays a vital part in supporting the institution's strategic goals by ensuring that ICT services are efficient, secure, and aligned with the evolving needs of the education sector. Quarrell's leadership contributes to the smooth functioning of technology, enabling Melbourne Polytechnic to offer innovative learning opportunities and support student career development.