Ms Rachel Holthouse has been appointed to the position of Chief Executive at Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) and commenced in July 2024. ISV represents more than 230 schools that educate more than 165,000 students across Victoria. It is the fastest growing school sector in the state.
Ms Holthouse has more than 20 years’ experience in education, including senior appointments at RMIT University and the University of Melbourne. Her work has included a particular focus on providing pathways for students into higher education.
She has a record of successful advocacy and engagement with governments, ministers and senior officials. Her communications and cross-cultural skills will be invaluable to ISV, given the diversity of the communities served by the growing Independent school sector.
Her academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts, a Diploma of Education, and a Master of Applied Linguistics.
“As a recent applicant, I had an exceptional experience with Future Leadership. Each of the Future team members that I engaged with demonstrated high EQ and empathised with the emotional journey that I was on as a candidate. They took time to build rapport and ensure there was alignment between my experience and interests and the role on offer.
They were encouraging and supportive, gave practical advice as to how to understand the role and clear instructions. Each person made me feel my application mattered to them and that they wanted to work with me to present myself in the best possible light.
As results came through from each stage of the process, the feedback was very prompt and insightful. Support onsite for my presentation was also thoughtful and attentive. This meant I was able to focus on what I was saying and not be stressed about the technology. These small details made a huge difference to my ability to focus on engaging with the panel. A special thanks to Liz Jones, for her encouragement and support. I feel like a have made a true friend. Thanks also to Kirsti Hitz-Morton, Larissa Langly and the ever-efficient Katherine Smith.”
Ms Rachel Holthouse, Chief Executive Officer, ISV