Quality and student success at the heart of new CDU TAFE leadership

Charles Darwin University (CDU) has appointed Claire Rasmussen as the next Pro Vice-Chancellor of CDU TAFE.  

Ms Rasmussen has more than 30 years' experience in the vocational education and training sector.

Most recently, Claire served as Chief Governance and Quality Officer, and previously as Chief Academic Officer, at Bendigo Kangan Institute.

In these positions, she led academic quality and assurance, learning and teaching, regulatory compliance, governance and risk, student administration, government reporting, digital learning and student support across a large, multi-campus institution. 

The selection panel was particularly impressed by her strong background in regulatory reform, quality assurance, and bolstering student outcomes. 

Ms Rasmussen’s contribution to the VET sector has been recognised through the Berwyn Clayton Award for her work supporting the research, education and development of VET educators. She was also awarded an International Specialised Skills Institute Fellowship to research ways of strengthening the quality, capability and standing of the VET teaching workforce. 

"Vocational education and training have the power to transform lives, strengthen communities and respond directly to workforce needs," Ms Rasmussen said. 

"I am honoured to lead CDU TAFE at such an important point in its development.  

"My focus will be on strengthening a culture of quality and continuous improvement, while ensuring our systems support excellent teaching and positive outcomes for students and industry.” 

CDU TAFE is continuing to implement the recommendations of an independent review and to implement processes to strengthen quality assurance assessment and oversight across CDU TAFE. 

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said she was delighted to welcome Claire to lead CDU TAFE at an important time for vocational education and training in the Northern Territory. 

“Claire brings an outstanding record of strengthening vocational education and training through regulatory reform. She is passionate about supporting student success, responding to industry and workforce needs, and building capable and accountable teams,” Professor Coulson said. 

"Claire’s experience will be invaluable as we deliver CDU’s Future Ready TAFE Reform program.  

"Under her leadership, we will continue to strengthen CDU TAFE’s quality and compliance foundations, develop our workforce, deepen our connections with industry and communities, and provide the skilled workforce the Northern Territory needs." 

Ms Rasmussen will commence with CDU on 6 October.