Executive Leadership
Executive team
Dan Cockerell
Chief Executive Officer
Dan is the Chief Executive Officer of Torrens Global Education Services.
He previously served as Vice-President of the Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Florida.
He attended Boston University, graduating in 1991, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.
Upon graduation from Boston University in 1991, Dan moved to Florida and worked as a parking attendant at Disney’s Epcot Center. Subsequently, he joined the Disneyland Paris Management Trainee Program as part of the opening team and moved to France in 1992. While working in Paris, Dan held various management positions in Parking, Ticketing, Guest Relations, Food & Beverage and Human Resources.
After spending 5 years in France, Dan relocated to Florida and held a variety of executive roles at the Walt Disney World Resort, both in the theme parks and resort hotels. His last 9 years with the company, he was successively Vice President of Epcot, Vice President of Disney’s Hollywood Studios and eventually Vice President of the Magic Kingdom, where he led 12,000 cast members and entertained over 20 million guests annually.
He earned his MBA in 2001 at the Crummer School of Business at Rollins College. In addition to his operational responsibilities, Dan was a keynote speaker for the world-renowned Disney Institute for 18 years. He has addressed open-enrollment participants from all over the world as well as attendees in custom programs including the USAA Bank, General Motors, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Army, the Southern Methodist University Business School, Porsche A.G., and United Airlines.
He served on the board of Junior Achievement of Central Florida from 2004 to 2018, and was Chairman in 2010.
After a fulfilling and exciting 26-year career with the Walt Disney Company, Dan and his wife Valerie made the decision to set out on a new venture and start their own consulting and speaking business for five and a half years, traveling around the world and sharing their experience and insight.
In December 2023, Dan moved to Sydney and joined Torrens Global Education Services as Co-CEO. After a year, Dan was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Torrens University Australia.
An important industry collaboration in June 2024, saw Dan appointed as an honorary Governor of the American Chamber of Commerce Australia (AmCham) in NSW.
Professor Alwyn Louw
Vice-Chancellor and President
Professor Alwyn Louw was appointed Vice-Chancellor of Torrens University in January 2020 following a distinguished 20-year career in senior academic leadership and management experience. This included serving as President of the University and Academic President at Monash South Africa, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Research at Vaal University of Technology (South Africa) and Vice Principal at the University of South Africa.
A sociologist by training, Professor Louw has published extensively on a broad range of issues including societal development, gender equity, civil society and community, future of education, new generation universities, research and innovation. Professor Louw is also highly regarded for his work in building new approaches to higher education by ensuring access to high-quality education for all through a deliberate focus shift to inclusivity and affordability.
Professor Louw has extensive private, civic and charitable sector experience including serving as Chair and Director of South Africa Private Higher Education, Chair of Board of Directors for Africa, Operation Mobilisation, President of South African Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Chair Pro Christo Global Mission and Chair of Cancer Association in Kimberley (South Africa).
Professor Louw studied Sociology (BA Hons and Masters) at the University of the Free State (South Africa) and obtained his PhD in Sociology from Vista University (South Africa).
Professor Dominique Parrish
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic
With a distinguished career in senior academic leadership positions, Professor Dominique Parrish was appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, at Torrens University in October 2023.
Prior to her appointment, Professor Parrish served as Pro-Vice Chancellor Learning and Teaching at Macquarie University, Associate Dean (Education) and Director Learning, Teaching, and the Student Experience, at the University of Wollongong.
A highly qualified educationalist, Professor Parrish has over 35 years of experience designing and implementing programs, solutions, and initiatives to meet organisation, project, program, and curricula outcomes and deliverables. Her research interests include technology-enhanced learning, learning-oriented assessment, student experience and engagement, and leadership and emotional intelligence.
Professor Parrish has served as the President of the Australasian Society for Computers in Learning in Tertiary Education (ASCILITE) and was a Senior Editor of the Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice (JUTLP).
Professor Craig McLachlan
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research (Acting)
Professor Craig McLachlan is Research Director of the Centre for Healthy Futures at Torrens University Australia and served as Chair of the Human Research Ethics Committee. Prior to joining Torrens in 2019, he was Director of Research at the UNSW Rural Clinical School for nearly eight years, where he led research expansion across a fragmented rural health landscape, supporting national workforce initiatives and serving on the FRAME Committee tracking medical student outcomes across 17 universities.
He has held prior academic roles as Senior Lecturer at UTS and as Senior Research Scientist at A*STAR Singapore, where the molecular medicine laboratory was mentored by Nobel Laureate Sydney Brenner, as well as a postdoctoral fellow in neuropharmacology at the National University of Singapore. His research portfolio spans cardiovascular science, pharmacology, public health, medical devices, and community health, with a strong focus on translational impact. He has authored over 150 publications, led NHMRC Development Grants, evaluated first-in-human medical device studies, and supervised numerous PhD students.
Professor McLachlan is also an advocate for people living with rare cancer, committed to advancing knowledge to identify new biological targets. He holds majors in pharmacology, microbiology, and psychology, with honours and a PhD in medicine from the University of Sydney, and a Master of Public Health and Tropical Medicine from James Cook University. His leadership is defined by building strategic networks that enable impactful, interdisciplinary research and drive innovation into practice.
Professor Greg Harper
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Business and HospitalityAt Torrens, Dr Greg Harper is Dean, Business & Hospitality, following his role as Pro Vice-Chancellor, Business and Entrepreneurship. In this role, he provides educational and academic leadership for Torrens University’s business and hospitality programs. A key focus is the growth of these programs in Australia by providing programs that ensure students are both very employable and resourceful.
These highly valued programs will be delivered in most capital cities and online. A second key focus is developing executive learning and development programs for organisations in Australia. The final key focus is the development of strategies to foster and facilitate industry engagement across the University to enhance the employment outcomes of graduates and to promote industry-engaged research.
Dr Harper is a highly experienced educator, executive, leader, and consultant. The former General Manager of Swinburne Industry Solutions, Greg has held a number of senior executive positions in the public and private sectors: for example, Chief Executive of a large Queensland TAFE Institute and a Senior Executive in the Queensland Department of Education and Training. He is a highly experienced organisational development consultant having worked with some of Australia’s leading corporations. As a leader, Greg’s focus is on developing people by providing coaching and developmental assignments.
Professor Agnes Bosanquet
Interim Executive Dean, Design and Creative Technology
Professor Agnes Bosanquet joined Torrens University in 2024 as a distinguished educator, researcher, and leader with over two decades of experience in social sciences and humanities disciplines. Currently serving as Interim Executive Dean in Design and Creative Technology, she provides academic leadership and management to ensure student success, curriculum quality, and research and teaching development. Professor Bosanquet is internationally recognised for her collaborative research on academic identities and higher education curriculum and pedagogy. She co-leads the widely adopted MOOC Contemporary Approaches to University Teaching, reflecting her commitment to inclusive, evidence-based pedagogy. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly quality education and gender equality.
Professor Matthew Mundy
Executive Dean, Health and EducationMatthew joined Torrens University Australia in October 2022. He brings a breadth and depth of academic experience from his previous roles as Academic Director for Monash Online and Education Director for Psychology at Monash University. A cognitive neuroscientist by training, he has built an international reputation for expertise in human learning and memory; as well as in education-focused research of teaching and learning innovation. Prof Mundy’s aim is to infuse research-driven change into tertiary teaching, through understanding of the psychological science behind learning and memory. He is particularly driven to ensure healthy mental health and wellbeing sit alongside effective and engaging learning ensuring high quality outcomes for all students. Prof Mundy studied Psychology and Neuroscience (BSc Hons, MSc) at the University of Liverpool (England) and obtained his PhD in Psychology from Cardiff University (Wales).
Ben Spoor
Chief of Staff
Ben is the Chief of Staff to the CEO at Torrens University where he plays a pivotal role in aligning strategic priorities, streamlining executive operations, and driving high-impact initiatives that support the university’s mission and students.
He brings a unique blend of experience across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, with a strong track record of operational excellence, strategic execution, and leadership in complex, fast-paced environments.
Most recently, Ben served as Chief of Staff and Head of Business Operations at Space Machines Company, one of Australia's most exciting aerospace startups. In this role, he was instrumental in scaling the business through rapid team growth, establishing robust operational frameworks, and successfully uplifting financial systems and cybersecurity maturity.
Prior to his tenure at Space Machines Company, Ben held leadership roles at Uber, where he was responsible for improving delivery partner experience and safety, and at Nous Group, where he directed strategic consulting projects for universities, government, and global non-profits. He also serves as a Captain in the Australian Army Reserve.
Ben holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Sydney and a Diploma of Leadership and Management from the Australian Defence College. He is passionate about leveraging his diverse experience to support Torrens University's growth and strategic initiatives.
Adam Guinea
Vice President, Finance – ANZ
Adam Guinea joined Torrens Global Education in September 2015 and was appointed to the position of Vice President, Finance-ANZ in July 2023, having previously served as Deputy CFO, Director of Finance-Planning & Analysis, and Director of Control. In his current role, Adam oversees Controllership, Commercial Finance, Planning & Analysis, Internal Controls, Accounts Payable & Procurement and Property & Facilities. Prior to joining Torrens, Adam held several senior finance roles in the UK and USA for financial services group Old Mutual, bringing significant experience and expertise in listed, multi-national environments. While grounding the focus of Finance in compliance, accuracy and efficiency, Adam is also passionate about being an effective partner to the business, providing insight, supporting decision-making and enabling the achievement of our mission.
Adam began his career in external audit at KPMG Australia, is a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and holds a Bachelor of Business (Accountancy) from Queensland University of Technology.
Hugo Contente
Vice President People and Talent
Hugo Contente formally joined Torrens University in February 2018, and brings a great deal of experience having previously led Student Services and Human Resources teams across Europe. Along with a great sense of humour, Hugo brings a naturally collaborative approach, a deep commitment to our mission, and an appreciation of balancing business needs with student outcomes.
Hugo joined Laureate International Universities in 2011 as HR Director for Portugal, he forged a successful career in HR consultancy, focused on a range of training and development initiatives. In 2014 Hugo moved to Madrid, where he led the Student Services Department for Spain and Portugal, before becoming Vice President, Human Resources in 2016. In early 2017, Hugo transitioned to the role of Organizational and Talent Development Director for Laureate across Europe, Middle East, Africa and the Asia Pacific.
Hugo holds a degree in psychology from Universidade de Lisboa, and an MBA from AESE / IESE – one of the leading business schools in Portugal.
Rob McGowan
Vice President, Future Students and Growth
Rob McGowan was appointed Vice President International in April 2023, after previously holding the role of Senior Director of Industry and Employability.
Rob has extensive international experience in education, having been employed as Managing Director of Coventary University Recruitment and Admissions Ltd (CURA) in the UK. CURA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Coventry University Group, established by Rob in April 2019. CURA employed approximately 400 staff and delivered all customer engagement services for prospective and current students across the Coventry University Group. Rob was also Director of Sales (ANZ), Laureate International Universities until March 2019.
Rob holds a Bachelor of Science from Coventry University and an MBA from Torrens University Australia.
Steve Marks
Senior Director of IT
Steve Marks joined Torrens Global Education as Senior Director of IT in March 2024. He has a passion for creating seamless digital experiences and ensuring IT strategies and supporting roadmaps are underpinned by a deep understanding of student, academic, and staff needs.
Steve oversees the strategic priority for technology, data, and security at Torrens Global Education and is responsible for curating a digital strategy, supporting roadmap, and a project portfolio that complements the organisation’s objectives, promotes digital ambition, and ultimately delivers enhanced student, academic, and staff satisfaction and improved learning outcomes.
Steve’s extensive experience includes senior IT leadership roles at the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Navitas Limited and Teachers Health. He has consistently aligned IT strategies with business goals, driving successful digital transformation and fostering collaborative input through strong business engagement and partnering.
Anna Sutton
General Counsel
Anna Sutton joined Torrens Global Education as General Counsel in 2024 and is a member of the Executive team. She oversees all legal and corporate governance matters for Torrens Global Education, including Torrens University.
With extensive experience in governance and law in highly regulated industries and international environments, Anna previously served as General Counsel ANZ for Syngenta Group, a leading life sciences company, where she led the legal, ethics, and compliance functions. Prior to that, Anna spent six years as an expat in Singapore, in various legal roles covering the Asia Pacific region. Anna also contributes her expertise as a member of the School Council of Barker College.
Nicola Smith
Vice President, Student Experience
Nicola Smith joined Torrens Global Education as the new Vice President, Student Experience in April 2025.
Nicola brings a wealth of experience and deep passion for designing and delivering exceptional customer experiences. With a strong background in customer experience strategy, design thinking, insights and analytics, complaint resolution, and cultural transformation, Nicola has built and led cross-functional teams focused on improving people’s journeys through complex systems.
Prior to joining Torrens, Nicola held several senior positions leading experience functions at Aware Super, BT Financial Group, Westpac and Qantas and brings extensive leadership experience, commercial acumen, and a people-first mindset. Nicola oversees all Campus Operations and Student Services teams at Torrens University and is responsible for creating a highly personalised, empowering, and future-focused student experience at Torrens University.
Nicola began her career at KPMG Australia where she completed her Chartered Accountant qualifications and holds a Bachelor of Business from University of Technology Sydney.
Clayton Ford
Senior Director, Communications and Public Affairs
Clayton joined Torrens Global Education in early 2024. He is a senior corporate affairs leader with extensive experience in government relations and public policy, communications and reputation management, and corporate responsibility across a range of industries and countries. Most recently Clayton was Senior Manager Public Policy ANZ with Amazon Web Services (AWS), and prior to that Chief Communications Officer for .au Domain Administration (auDA) – the Government-endorsed administrator of Australia’s .au Internet domain.
Clayton has previously established and led corporate affairs teams for 7-Eleven and an ASX100 manufacturer, with prior experience across fast moving consumer goods (in Australian, European and global roles), pharmaceuticals, and the Australian government as an Advisor to the Minister for Education.
Clayton is a Fellow of the Centre for Corporate Public Affairs and holds a Master of Business Management and a Bachelor of Arts (Social Sciences) from Monash University. He is also a Director of Melanoma Patients Australia and President of the Old Haileyburians Association.