La Trobe University hires Shainal Kavar as CIO

La Trobe University has appointed Shainal Kavar as its chief information officer, he will begin the role on November 21.

Kavar joins the University with significant experience in senior executive roles delivering large digital transformation projects. He has led digital transformation teams and delivered significant outcomes in complex operating environments.

His recent role was the head of IT strategy, architecture and business engagement at Downer Group. He was also the CIO at Spotless prior to his tenure at Downer.

His experience leading strategic programs of work and projects for global enterprises also include, Clarity Consulting, LogicaCMG and Accenture has spanned multiple geographical groups and territories

Mark Smith, chief operating officer at La Trobe University said, “A key leadership position, the CIO is a member of the Chief Operating Officer’s portfolio and leads the Information Services team. Kavar will work to support the delivery of a fit-for-purpose, customer-focused digital infrastructure that will enable the delivery of the university’s digital transformation as a core part of our strategic plan.

“This will include developing appropriate student, staff and industry-relevant information services strategies, policies and operational programs, as well as monitoring, reviewing and reporting on digital effectiveness across the University.”

Kavar will work closely with key senior leaders in teaching and learning, research and student support, operations and infrastructure and maximise the benefits of relationships with industry. 

He told Digital Nation Australia, "I am excited to be joining La Trobe at a time of significant Digital Transformation, and I’m looking forward to leading the team to deliver tangible results in crucial areas such as Cyber Security and in proactively driving the digital and collaboration agenda for university city of the future."

Recently, La Trobe University partnered with Cisco and Optus Enterprise as part of its digital infrastructure transformation.

The investment is focused on next-generation network transformation, including moving to a Software Defined Network (SDN) to allow for virtual management of resources and the ability to monitor applications in the network.

Cisco says this will enable La Trobe to be more responsive to demands from its Melbourne and regional campuses, as well as improving its innovation capacity and cybersecurity.