Karen is a highly skilled CEO with extensive experience in strategic planning, change management and business growth and development in the education sector.

As former CEO of Government Skills Australia, Executive Director of GOTAFE, Executive Advisor to Bendigo Kangan Institute and Deputy CEO of the Australian Institute of Management, she has a deep understanding of the education and training landscape in Australia.

Karen has spent most of her professional life working in for-purpose organisations with business development and growth agendas. She has a track record of developing trusted relationships with peak bodies, professional organisations and government, as well as interpreting the impact of Australia’s political, industrial and economic landscape on community and industry needs. She has influenced the development and implementation of national VET policies, along with cultural and practice change in workforce development across the national VET system. Karen has successfully advocated at both a state and national level for industry and workplace policy change leading to genuine positive life impact for individuals.

A graduate of the AICD Company Directors Course, Karen has successfully led large teams in complex business environments, been accountable for strategic planning, financial strategy and sustainability, and consulted to CEOs and Boards across Australia.

Importantly, as a successful female leader, Karen is acutely aware of the obstacles and challenges facing women leaders and is passionate about advancing gender equity. With qualifications in psychology, counselling and therapy, she is also an advocate for improving mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.