Grant Sutherland has been appointed as chief executive of the campus and will work alongside the head of the Warrnambool campus, Professor Gerry Quinn.

It is believed to be the first time a chief executive has been appointed at an Australian university campus and it is understood that Warrnambool is the only Deakin campus with a head of campus position.

Deakin University vice-chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander said the new chief executive position was introduced “to deliver a strategy for the future of the Warrnambool campus that will better meet the needs of the Warrnambool community and Deakin”. 

“In the face of change, we must change too so we can continue to meet the needs of the community we serve,” Professor den Hollander said.

“We see a future for an educational precinct in Warrnambool, with local schools, the TAFE and Deakin providing a seamless continuum for the needs of the town. 

“The educational courses Deakin provides must match the skill base needs of Warrnambool. 

“Deakin has a strong and long standing relationship with South West TAFE and we see great opportunities to strengthen that relationship. 

“We see a closer connection to school retention and TAFE pathways, and will work to build a strong campus life around courses that fit these pathways.”

Mr Sutherland has previously worked as chief executive of Bendigo’s Kangan Institute and in varying positions, including chief executive at the Gordon Institute of TAFE.

“Grant is an experienced leader and will bring to Warrnambool and Deakin deep and long-standing experience building sustainable plans, policies and resources in the face of change,” Professor den Hollander said.

Professor Quinn said the appointment was “great news for the campus and Warrnambool”.

“I really look forward to working with Grant on a strong, positive strategy for the future,” he said.

Mr Sutherland will begin his new position in late April.