Executive Search

Project Based Search Appointing CEO, CFO, COO and Executive Team for a TAFE Institution

Date Posted:8 July 2025

The Brief

Following the establishment of a new centralised TAFE model and a major structural reform of the vocational education sector in the state, Future Leadership was engaged to conduct the executive search for the Chief Executive Officer, six regional General Managers, and the central executive team.

A targeted attraction, recruitment, and selection strategy was implemented to identify high-performing, motivated executives capable of supporting the organisation’s long-term commercial viability and sustainability.

The process included careful engagement with internal candidates to ensure fairness and transparency throughout.

The full recruitment process was planned and completed within a three-month timeframe.

The Process

Detailed briefings were conducted and tailored project plans developed, mindful of the limited timeframe available.

CEO and General Manager appointments were prioritised, supported by a targeted advertising campaign that emphasised the unique opportunity to lead innovation and excellence across a newly restructured state-wide vocational education system.

Comprehensive research and talent mapping focused on identifying senior VET executives nationally with the right leadership capabilities and cultural alignment for the new entity.

Future Leadership engaged directly with individuals across these networks, gathering insights and recommendations, encouraging high-potential candidates to apply, and conducting interviews to assess alignment with the organisation’s vision and requirements.

Regular communication and customised reporting ensured the client remained informed at every stage of the process.

The Outcome

The market responded positively to the opportunities presented, and Future Leadership delivered high-calibre shortlists for all roles.

All appointments were completed within the agreed timeline and exceeded the board’s expectations in terms of balancing internal and external candidates.

Future Leadership has maintained strong relationships with the appointed executives and has since led successful searches for the Chair and three board directors across the TAFE network.

 

Consultant

Andrew Norton

Partner, Executive Search View Profile
Australian-Aboriginal-Flag Torres_Strait_Islanders_Flag Tino-Rangatiratanga-Maori-sovereignty-movement-flag

We acknowledge the first and continuing custodians of the countries and the grounds upon which we live, lead, and learn. We recognise the unique and enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and the land the world over. We welcome their deep knowledge and lessons in stewardship.