TAFE SA Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

TAFE SA has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, human resources, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to accessible learning, TAFE SA provides comprehensive vocational education and training, empowering individuals with skills from entry-level certificates to bachelor's degrees and shaping Australia's future workforce.

Leadership Roles at TAFE SA

  • Chief Executive Officer - Adam Kilvert
  • Executive Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer - Graham Rix
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - T.R. Kesavan
  • Director, ICT Services & Chief Information Officer - Alexandra Sturdy
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Muthu Thanu
  • Chief Technology Officer & Program Manager - Nageshwar Rao
  • Adam Kilvert - Chief Executive Officer

    Adam Kilvert, the Chief Executive Officer at TAFE SA, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Kilvert guides TAFE SA's mission to deliver high-quality vocational education and training across Australia, ensuring alignment with industry needs and government objectives. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in educational delivery and expanding program offerings to meet evolving market demands. By overseeing all institutional functions, Adam Kilvert ensures TAFE SA remains a leader in preparing students for successful careers and contributing to the nation's skilled workforce.

    Graham Rix - Executive Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer

    Graham Rix, the Executive Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer at TAFE SA, directs the comprehensive operational functions that ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of educational services across Australia. Rix oversees campus management, resource allocation, and the optimization of all operational processes, directly impacting the student experience and institutional effectiveness. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining high standards in facilities, student support services, and administrative functions, enabling TAFE SA to fulfill its mandate of providing accessible vocational training. By driving operational excellence, Graham Rix ensures that TAFE SA's extensive network of training facilities operates at peak performance.
    Graham Rix

    T.R. Kesavan - President & Chief Operating Officer

    T.R. Kesavan, the President & Chief Operating Officer at TAFE SA, provides executive leadership and oversees the strategic and operational execution of the institution's mission across Australia. Kesavan drives the overall business strategy, ensuring TAFE SA's programs and services effectively meet the demands of the vocational education sector and contribute to workforce development. This senior role involves managing key relationships, guiding institutional growth, and ensuring operational efficiency across all departments. By leading with a focus on strategic objectives and operational integrity, T.R. Kesavan reinforces TAFE SA's position as a leading provider of vocational training and education.

    Alexandra Sturdy - Director, ICT Services & Chief Information Officer

    Alexandra Sturdy, the Director, ICT Services & Chief Information Officer at TAFE SA, architects and manages the institution's entire information and communication technology infrastructure. Sturdy drives the digital transformation initiatives, ensuring robust, secure, and scalable IT systems that support TAFE SA's educational and administrative operations across Australia. This critical role involves overseeing all aspects of technology services, from network management and cybersecurity to the implementation of learning management systems and data analytics platforms. By optimizing technology resources, Alexandra Sturdy enhances the student and staff experience, enabling efficient program delivery and supporting strategic decision-making through reliable data insights.

    Muthu Thanu - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Muthu Thanu, the Chief Human Resources Officer at TAFE SA, leads all human capital strategies and initiatives to support the institution's extensive workforce across Australia. Thanu develops and implements comprehensive HR policies covering talent acquisition, employee development, performance management, and compensation, ensuring TAFE SA attracts and retains top educational and administrative talent. This position is pivotal in cultivating a positive and productive organizational culture that aligns with TAFE SA's mission of delivering exceptional vocational training. By focusing on employee engagement and professional growth, Muthu Thanu strengthens the institution's capacity to meet the diverse needs of its students and stakeholders.
    Muthu Thanu

    Nageshwar Rao - Chief Technology Officer & Program Manager

    Nageshwar Rao, the Chief Technology Officer & Program Manager at TAFE SA, spearheads technological innovation and manages key strategic programs to advance the institution's educational offerings. Rao oversees the integration of cutting-edge technologies into TAFE SA's curriculum and operational frameworks, ensuring programs remain relevant and competitive within Australia's evolving vocational landscape. This dual role involves not only setting the technological direction but also meticulously managing the execution of critical institutional projects, from system upgrades to the development of new training modalities. Through strategic technology deployment and effective program oversight, Nageshwar Rao drives efficiency and enhances the quality of education provided.
    Nageshwar Rao

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding TAFE SA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads TAFE SA?
    TAFE SA is led by Adam Kilvert (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Graham Rix (Executive Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer) and T.R. Kesavan (President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of TAFE SA’s executive team?
    The executive team of TAFE SA includes leaders such as Adam Kilvert (Chief Executive Officer), Graham Rix (Executive Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer), T.R. Kesavan (President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does TAFE SA have?
    TAFE SA has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in TAFE SA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of TAFE SA includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer, Director, ICT Services & Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.