Pirie to take over from Williams as ITECA CEO

The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) has announced the departure of CEO Troy Williams, with Felix Pirie to take over. After more than six years at the helm, Williams will step down on February 3, 2025.

“Under Troy’s leadership, ITECA has cemented its role at the forefront of the national workforce policy debate, championing independent skills training and higher education providers that equip students with the tools to tackle emerging workforce challenges,” says ITECA Board Chair Mark McKenzie.

“Troy’s leadership has fostered a policy environment where more students can choose independent education providers, addressing critical skills shortages while empowering individuals to succeed.”

ITECA says one of Williams’s defining achievements was leading the organisation’s transformation from the Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET) into a member-driven organisation. This shift, ITECA says, attracted a growing number of industry associations, reshaping the organisation’s engagement with employers and policymakers.

“Troy’s focus on member-driven advocacy has elevated ITECA’s political and stakeholder engagement, solidifying its role as a leader in workforce development policy,” McKenzie says.

Deputy CEO Felix Pirie will assume the role of CEO from February 3. Williams will remain with ITECA for several weeks to help during the leadership transition of leadership.