Tony Pollock joins Swinburne College Board

Leading international education authority Tony Pollock has been appointed to the board of Swinburne University of Technology’s international pathways arm, Swinburne College.

The former CEO of IDP Education will take up his position as an independent director of the college in December.

A wholly owned subsidiary of Swinburne University of Technology, Swinburne College is a leading provider of English language courses and university pathway programs for international students. Through the college, more than 5000 students have successfully made the transition to undergraduate and postgraduate study at Swinburne University of Technology.

Swinburne College CEO Andrew Smith said Mr Pollock would bring a wealth of experience to his new position.

“Tony has been a leader in higher education, particularly international education, for the past twenty years,” he said.

“He has contributed nationally and internationally to debate and policy formulation and has an extremely strong understanding of the international business and regulatory environment in relation to the provision of international education programs and services.” 

Mr Smith said he was very pleased that a person with such ability and industry knowledge would be joining the Swinburne College Board.

“Tony’s expertise will no doubt strengthen the board’s capacity to respond effectively to a dynamic operating environment, and will add to the independence of the college’s governance and risk management frameworks.”

Mr Pollock said he was looking forward to his new role, and the opportunity to contribute to the college’s development.

“Swinburne College plays an important role for international students, helping them adjust to study in Australia and preparing them to progress to further education,” he said. “The college has already made considerable advances in the field of international education, and I am looking forward to playing a part in its continued growth."

During Mr Pollock’s tenure at IDP, the business was consistently profitable, while turnover grew from  $85 million per annum to $200 million. It employed approximately 1000 people in 30 countries, in addition to more than 125 associated language-testing centres.

Prior to his role at IDP, Mr Pollock was Vice President (International) at Monash University, and the founder of Monash International Pty Ltd, the university’s international arm.

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