Vocational education leader appointed as TasTAFE's new CEO
Published on: 12 Sep 2025
Following an extensive recruitment process TasTAFE’s Board of Directors has appointed Dr Norman Baker as TasTAFE’s incoming Chief Executive Officer.
Dr Baker has a long history of leadership in public vocational education and training organisations in Western Australia and South Australia, most recently as an Executive Dean of TAFE SA. He has led large scale organisational change with an emphasis on aligning training delivery to priority industry sectors and brings extensive experience in regional development.
“The Board is confident that Dr Baker will provide TasTAFE with the strategic capability and leadership to continue the important work of all of our staff in delivering high quality vocational outcomes for Tasmania and ensuring that we have the learner at the centre of everything we do,” said Tim Gardner, TasTAFE Board Chair.
Dr Baker said he was excited about the opportunity to lead TasTAFE and relocating to Tasmania.
“As Tasmania’s TAFE, the organisation plays a critical role in the lives of individuals, their families, communities and the future of the State. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to be a part of that.”
“As a lover of the outdoors – and great food and wine - I can’t wait to have some of Australia and the world’s most cherished outdoor environments, vineyards and dining experiences, right on my doorstep. Tasmania really is a special part of the world, which I’m really looking forward to immersing myself in.”
In welcoming Dr Baker to TasTAFE, Mr Gardner acknowledged and thanked TasTAFE’s Executive team for ensuring continued focus on the leadership and management of TasTAFE following the departure of former CEO Grant Dreher in April this year.
Mr Gardner also thanked Will McShane for doing an excellent job in the role of TasTAFE Interim CEO. Mr McShane returns to his role as TasTAFE’s Chief Financial Officer when Dr Baker commences on 24 November 2025.
Dr Baker holds a Doctor of Business Administration, Master of Educational Research, Master of Computer Studies, Bachelor of Business, Post-Graduate Diploma of Business, Graduate Diploma of Education, and qualifications in Project Management and Training & Workforce Development.
