RMIT Online appoints Nic Cola as CEO

RMIT Online has appointed Nic Cola as its new CEO, replacing interim CEO Claire Hopkins. 

Cola comes into the position nearly a year after previous CEO Helen Souness left the role in April 2022. 

According to the university, Cola has extensive experience leading digital transformation across education, media and travel sectors. 

Cola was previously the Open College managing director for the past four years overseeing the rapid growth of the group’s online courses and student enrolments.

Professor Alec Cameron, Vice-Chancellor and President of RMIT University said, "We are delighted for Nic Cola to lead RMIT Online's next chapter.

“The world of work and the trajectory of careers are changing, and we must provide fit-for-purpose education in emerging areas.

“Cola will lead the expansion of RMIT Online’s solutions for lifelong learning, through online micro-credentials and postgraduate qualifications that will help businesses and individuals upskill and reskill in high-demand areas.”

RMIT Online partners with industry leaders such as Accenture, Amazon Web Service, Salesforce and IBM to develop online courses and micro-credentials that deliver knowledge and practical in-demand skills aligned with current market needs.

Students learn about areas like artificial intelligence, data analysis, digital marketing or cybersecurity with professionals who lead their fields inside some of the best companies in the country.

Cola said, "I'm honoured and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an institution that is changing the parameters of education in Australia and playing a critical role in preparing our workers for the future.”

He will begin his role on April 3.

RMIT Online was created by RMIT University to provide a world-class digital learning experience at the nexus of business, design and technology, leaning into the future of work needs to equip students with in-demand skills and qualifications.