Swinburne University appoints first chief data analytics officer

Swinburne University of Technology has appointed Anthony Perera as its first chief data analytics officer (CDAO).

Anthony Perera, Swinburne University

The Melbourne-based university will increase its focus on data engineering, reporting, advanced analytics, adoption and utilisation of AI through the appointment.

According to Swinburne University, Perera’s role will ensure “actionable business insights” are shared with “all divisions across the university”. 

Formerly CDAO at La Trobe University, Perera said in a statement to iTnews that he will use his “previous experience in utilising and connecting data to decision makers and end users to enhance the student and partner experience of data management, business intelligence and strategic planning in new ways and further the university’s work in innovation and technology”.

Perera reports to chief information officer Claes Mansson, who joined the university in January 2024 following a job hunt starting last September. 

Mansson said Perera will “play a pivotal role in advancing [Swinburne’s] organisational success".

“As Swinburne continues to leverage data and technology as key points of differentiation, Anthony and his team will be instrumental in creating new opportunities for our students, optimising operations, and providing insights for our people that accelerate our research outcomes and impact,” he added.