Dr Jerry Nockles – New Position of IHEA Deputy Chief Executive Officer

Independent Higher Education Australia (IHEA) is pleased to announce the promotion of Dr Jerry Nockles to the new position of IHEA Deputy Chief Executive Officer.

Jerry joined IHEA in 2022 and has since played a key role as Membership Services and Government Relations Manager. Importantly, Jerry will continue to manage these roles as IHEA’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer.

The new position of “Deputy Chief Executive Officer” comes as IHEA grows in scale, influence, and impact. Just last week, IHEA announced the addition of five independent higher education providers as new members.

“I am thrilled to be promoted to the new position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Independent Higher Education Australia and part of a sector committed to providing the best possible education for all Australians,” said Dr Jerry Nockles.

“At this dynamic time for the higher education sector, with the Federal Government's University Accord Review, independent providers will be an important part of the future of education in Australia. IHEA is committed to ensuring Australia’s higher education system produces the skills for the future and broadens educational opportunities to transform lives.”

“I look forward to playing an expanded role at IHEA as we embark on the next stage of growth and continue to harness the enormous capability of Australia’s independent higher education sector.”

Jerry has extensive experience in leadership, analysis, membership engagement, stakeholder management, advocacy, as well as government and public relations. Prior to joining IHEA, Jerry served as a ministerial Chief of Staff, holding senior managerial roles with Australia's largest NGO and the United Nations organisation. Jerry also comes from a military career background and completed a doctorate in political science and international relations.

As Jerry is Canberra-based, he will continue work in the nation's capital and balance is time between IHEA's Melbourne office and travel interstate as required.