TAFE NSW Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

TAFE NSW has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, information technology, people, and deputy roles.

Driven by a commitment to accessible learning, TAFE NSW provides vocational education and training across New South Wales, Australia, empowering individuals with practical skills and career pathways through degrees and short courses.

Leadership Roles at TAFE NSW

  • Chief Executive Officer - Elizabeth Hobbs
  • Chief Financial Officer - Louise Coutts
  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Kristen Gadd
  • Chief Operating Officer - Susannah Le Bron
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Daniel Bowes
  • Chief Information Officer, R - Muhammad Azam
  • Chief People Officer - Julie Tickle
  • Elizabeth Hobbs - Chief Executive Officer

    Elizabeth Hobbs, the Chief Executive Officer at TAFE NSW, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Overseeing all facets of vocational education and training, Hobbs ensures TAFE NSW delivers high-quality degrees and short courses across New South Wales. This leadership role involves aligning educational offerings with industry demands and government objectives, driving TAFE NSW's mission to empower individuals with essential career skills. By fostering innovation in learning delivery and expanding access to educational opportunities, Elizabeth Hobbs significantly impacts the professional development landscape within Australia. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses all campus operations and program development, ensuring a cohesive and effective educational experience for students.
    Elizabeth Hobbs

    Louise Coutts - Chief Financial Officer

    Louise Coutts, the Chief Financial Officer at TAFE NSW, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the organization. Coutts oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation across TAFE NSW's extensive network of campuses in New South Wales. This critical role ensures the financial health and sustainability of the institution, supporting the delivery of vocational education and training programs. By optimizing financial performance and managing investments, Louise Coutts directly contributes to TAFE NSW's capacity to offer degrees and short courses. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include financial reporting, risk management, and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations, thereby safeguarding the institution's assets and operational integrity.
    Louise Coutts

    Kristen Gadd - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Kristen Gadd, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at TAFE NSW, assists the Chief Financial Officer in overseeing the financial health and strategic fiscal management of the institution. Gadd plays a key part in financial planning, analysis, and reporting for TAFE NSW's operations across New South Wales. This position is essential for supporting the financial sustainability of vocational education and training programs. By contributing to budget management and financial controls, Kristen Gadd ensures resources are effectively allocated to deliver degrees and short courses. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's work supports robust financial governance and aids in achieving TAFE NSW's long-term financial objectives.

    Susannah Le Bron - Chief Operating Officer

    Susannah Le Bron, the Chief Operating Officer at TAFE NSW, oversees the day-to-day operational management and efficiency of the institution's extensive network. Le Bron directs campus operations, administrative functions, and service delivery across New South Wales, ensuring TAFE NSW's vocational education and training programs run smoothly. This leadership position is vital for maintaining the quality and accessibility of degrees and short courses offered. By optimizing resource utilization and streamlining processes, Susannah Le Bron enhances the overall student and staff experience. The Chief Operating Officer's focus includes operational scaling, infrastructure management, and ensuring seamless execution of TAFE NSW's educational mission throughout Australia.

    Daniel Bowes - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Daniel Bowes, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at TAFE NSW, supports the Chief Operating Officer in managing and optimizing the institution's extensive operational activities. Bowes focuses on specific areas of operational improvement and execution across TAFE NSW's campuses in New South Wales, ensuring the effective delivery of vocational education and training. This role is integral to maintaining high standards in student services and campus management. By assisting in the implementation of operational strategies and overseeing key projects, Daniel Bowes contributes to the seamless provision of degrees and short courses. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities often involve detailed planning and coordination to enhance overall organizational efficiency and effectiveness.

    Muhammad Azam - Chief Information Officer, R

    Muhammad Azam, the Chief Information Officer, R at TAFE NSW, leads the strategic direction and implementation of information technology across the organization. Azam is responsible for all technology infrastructure, digital learning platforms, and data management systems supporting TAFE NSW's vocational education and training initiatives. This role is crucial for enhancing educational delivery and operational efficiency through technological innovation. By driving digital transformation and ensuring robust IT security, Muhammad Azam supports the provision of degrees and short courses throughout New South Wales. The Chief Information Officer, R's mandate includes leveraging technology to improve student engagement, streamline administrative processes, and maintain TAFE NSW's competitive edge in the education sector.

    Julie Tickle - Chief People Officer

    Julie Tickle, the Chief People Officer at TAFE NSW, leads the human resources strategy and talent management for the organization. Tickle oversees all aspects of employee relations, recruitment, professional development, and organizational culture across TAFE NSW's New South Wales campuses. This role is fundamental to attracting, retaining, and developing the skilled workforce necessary to deliver exceptional vocational education and training. By fostering a positive and productive work environment, Julie Tickle ensures TAFE NSW has the talent required to offer high-quality degrees and short courses. The Chief People Officer's strategic focus includes workforce planning, compensation, and ensuring compliance with employment legislation, thereby supporting TAFE NSW's mission and operational success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding TAFE NSW Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads TAFE NSW?
    TAFE NSW is led by Elizabeth Hobbs (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Louise Coutts (Chief Financial Officer) and Kristen Gadd (Deputy Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of TAFE NSW’s executive team?
    The executive team of TAFE NSW includes leaders such as Elizabeth Hobbs (Chief Executive Officer), Louise Coutts (Chief Financial Officer), Kristen Gadd (Deputy Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does TAFE NSW have?
    TAFE NSW has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in TAFE NSW’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of TAFE NSW includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer.