Melbourne Polytechnic Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Melbourne Polytechnic has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and digital technology infrastructure.

Committed to delivering high-quality vocational and higher education, Melbourne Polytechnic fosters career readiness through practical training and industry-aligned curriculum across diverse sectors like agriculture, engineering, and the arts.

Leadership Roles at Melbourne Polytechnic

  • Chief Executive Officer - Frances Coppolillo
  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic - David Draper
  • Chief Financial Officer - Joseph Santiago
  • Director, Digital Technology Experience & Chief Information Officer - Channa Jayasinha
  • Acting Director, Ict Services & Chief Information Officer - Aaron Quarrell
  • Frances Coppolillo - Chief Executive Officer

    Frances Coppolillo, the Chief Executive Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the organization. Overseeing the delivery of diverse vocational and higher education programs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the evolving needs of the Australian labor market. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and driving the institution toward excellence in practical skills training. By championing initiatives that enhance student career pathways, Frances Coppolillo directly impacts the long-term success of learners across various disciplines. Coppolillo maintains a focus on expanding the reach of Free TAFE courses while upholding the high standards recognized by the Victorian Training Awards. Through rigorous oversight of academic and administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial and operational health of the institution, ensuring that educational offerings remain relevant, accessible, and impactful for both local and international student cohorts.

    David Draper - Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic

    David Draper, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic at Melbourne Polytechnic, manages the daily operational execution of academic and support services. Coordinating across multiple departments, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic ensures that practical training programs meet rigorous industry standards. This role involves optimizing internal processes to support the institution's mission of providing hands-on learning experiences. By facilitating collaboration between faculty and administrative teams, David Draper drives efficiency in the delivery of certificates and higher education degrees. Draper monitors the effectiveness of student support services, including job placement and scholarship programs, to maximize learner outcomes. Through the implementation of operational improvements, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic strengthens the institution's capacity to serve a growing student population. This leadership position requires constant attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining the high quality of education that defines the institution's reputation within the competitive Victorian training landscape.

    Joseph Santiago - Chief Financial Officer

    Joseph Santiago, the Chief Financial Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, governs the fiscal health and resource allocation strategies of the institution. Overseeing financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that capital investments support the expansion of innovative learning facilities and modern theoretical programs. This role involves managing the financial risks associated with large-scale educational operations and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. By analyzing revenue streams from diverse course offerings, Joseph Santiago drives sustainable growth and financial stability. Santiago collaborates with executive leadership to prioritize funding for scholarships and student services, directly impacting the accessibility of education. Through meticulous management of the institution's assets, the Chief Financial Officer secures the resources necessary for maintaining excellence in agriculture, engineering, and hospitality training. This position requires a strategic approach to fiscal management, ensuring that every dollar invested contributes to the long-term success and market competitiveness of the organization.

    Channa Jayasinha - Director, Digital Technology Experience & Chief Information Officer

    Channa Jayasinha, the Director, Digital Technology Experience & Chief Information Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, architects the digital transformation strategy to enhance the student and staff experience. Overseeing the integration of advanced learning technologies, the Director, Digital Technology Experience & Chief Information Officer ensures that digital platforms support modern theoretical learning and practical skill acquisition. This role involves managing the institution's digital infrastructure to provide seamless access to educational resources for both local and international students. By implementing innovative software solutions, Channa Jayasinha drives efficiency in administrative and academic workflows. Jayasinha collaborates with other C-suite leaders to align technology investments with the broader institutional mission of career-focused education. Through the development of robust digital systems, the Director, Digital Technology Experience & Chief Information Officer secures the technological foundation required for the institution to remain a leader in the Victorian training sector, facilitating a modern, connected, and highly effective learning environment.

    Aaron Quarrell - Acting Director, Ict Services & Chief Information Officer

    Aaron Quarrell, the Acting Director, Ict Services & Chief Information Officer at Melbourne Polytechnic, manages the operational stability and security of the institution's information technology systems. Overseeing the maintenance of network infrastructure and cybersecurity protocols, the Acting Director, Ict Services & Chief Information Officer ensures that all digital assets remain protected and functional. This role involves providing technical support for the diverse range of practical skills training programs offered across the institution. By optimizing IT service delivery, Aaron Quarrell drives the reliability of the digital tools used by students and faculty. Quarrell coordinates with internal teams to address technical challenges and implement upgrades that support the institution's educational goals. Through the management of IT resources, the Acting Director, Ict Services & Chief Information Officer secures the operational continuity of the organization. This leadership role requires a focus on maintaining a secure and efficient technological environment that empowers learners to succeed in their chosen fields of study.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Melbourne Polytechnic Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Melbourne Polytechnic?
    Melbourne Polytechnic is led by Frances Coppolillo (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as David Draper (Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic) and Joseph Santiago (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Melbourne Polytechnic’s executive team?
    The executive team of Melbourne Polytechnic includes leaders such as Frances Coppolillo (Chief Executive Officer), David Draper (Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic), Joseph Santiago (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Melbourne Polytechnic have?
    Melbourne Polytechnic has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Melbourne Polytechnic’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Melbourne Polytechnic includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer Melbourne Polytechnic, Chief Financial Officer, Director, Digital Technology Experience & Chief Information Officer, Acting Director, Ict Services & Chief Information Officer.