New Bendigo Kangan Institute Board Chair announced

Bendigo Kangan Institute announces the appointment of Sharan Burrow AC as Board Chair, effective 1 September 2024.

The institute welcomes the leadership of Ms Burrow, who brings a proven track record in global advocacy on employment, human rights, gender equality, industrial relations, corporate responsibility and climate action with just transition solutions.

As one of Australia's leading and most trusted integrated skills provider, Bendigo Kangan Institute consists of four brands – regional and metropolitan TAFE brands Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute, skills assessment agency VETASSESS and learning management platform provider eWorks.

A key priority for Ms Burrow will be leading the growth and impact of Bendigo Kangan Institute’s four brands, with the organisation soon to unveil its 2030 strategic plan.

Ms Burrow will also play a pivotal role in spearheading major projects currently underway including:

·         Hume Tech School operated by Kangan Institute

·         Bendigo TAFE Community Health and Learning Hub, in partnership with and Dhelkaya Health

·         New Kangan Institute campuses in Sunbury and Melton

Ms Burrow is the former General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation and was previously President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions.

Starting her career as a teacher, Ms Burrow has represented workers and civil society groups in global policy discussions at the United Nations, International Labour Organisation, G7, G20, World Bank, International Monetary Fund. She has also co-chaired the World Economic Forum’s annual meetings in Switzerland.

Ms Burrow is currently a visiting professor in practice to the LSE-Grantham Institute, vice-chair of the European Climate Foundation, board member of the Green Hydrogen Association, advisor on Temasek’s Sustainability Advisory Panel and board member of Novonix. 

Ms Burrow joined Bendigo Kangan Institute’s Board in December 2023. This appointment follows the retirement of Bendigo Kangan Institute’s outgoing Board Chair, Margaret O’Rourke OAM.

Quote attributable to Bendigo Kangan Institute Board Chairperson Sharan Burrow AC:

“I am honored to accept the role of Board Chair for Bendigo Kangan Institute. Our organisation plays a vital role in shaping the future of our community through education, skills assessments and jobs. 

“I am committed to working closely with our Board, staff, students, government partners, industry leaders, and the broader community to foster growth and drive impact, ensuring that we continue to deliver exceptional education, training and skills solutions in a time marked by significant change and opportunity.”

“I’d like to thank Marg O’Rourke OAM for her unwavering commitment to Bendigo Kangan Institute, championing vocational education in Victoria and making sure everyone has access to the skills and training they need to succeed”.  

Quote attributable to Bendigo Kangan Institute Chief Executive Officer Sally Curtain:

“Sharan Burrow AC extensive expertise and proven leadership will be invaluable at this exciting time of change and opportunity.

“With Ms Burrow at the helm, we are well-positioned to continue to drive sustainable growth and positive change, delivering high-quality education and training that equips our students with the skills they need to succeed.

“We also extend our thanks to our outgoing Chairperson, Marg O’Rourke OAM, for her stewardship of our Board. Her advocacy, experience and leadership over many years have been instrumental in driving our organisation forward and positioning us for continued growth."