As AITD looks toward the future, we do so with gratitude for our 50-year legacy and a clear intention to maintain and enhance the strength and renewal of our Board to ensure the Institute thrives for the next 50 years and beyond. Strong governance, strategic foresight and professional stewardship remain essential as we continue to elevate capability across the learning and development profession nationally.
AITD would like to acknowledge the faithful service of Sandeep Kirpalani, who has served as AITD Treasurer for the past two and a half years and now steps down with our sincere thanks.
In accordance with our Constitution, Directors conclude their term and stand for election through a formal nomination and interview process. Following this process, we are delighted to confirm the appointment and reappointment of several highly skilled and committed Directors who will formally join us in March.
To meet our entire Board of Directors, click here.
Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Economics, Master of Business (Accountancy), CPA designation, Diploma of Project Management and MAICD membership with the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She also serves in governance-related roles including Treasurer for Women in Defence (SA) and as an Ethics Officer at BAE Systems Australia.
Trish brings strong financial stewardship, risk governance discipline and strategic oversight capability—critical foundations for AITD’s continued sustainability and growth.
Currently leading Learning and Development within the Diplomatic Academy at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mehri oversees innovative global learning programs aligned to whole-of-government priorities. Her expertise in capability frameworks, digital learning ecosystems and evidence-based practice strongly complements AITD’s purpose.
During her previous 18 months representing the ACT on the AITD Board, Mehri contributed to the National Capability Framework, research on measuring impact, mentoring initiatives and national thought leadership. Her reappointment provides both continuity and momentum as AITD continues its transformation and growth trajectory.
In her current role at Isuzu UTE Australia, she leads national capability strategies across geographically dispersed networks, balancing workforce development with customer and organisational priorities. She combines strong stakeholder influence with a governance-minded approach shaped by financial and compliance experience in a family-owned enterprise.
Jessica’s experience in regulated healthcare environments and digital transformation initiatives further strengthens her understanding of risk, ethics and accountability. Her service-oriented mindset and commitment to the profession will add thoughtful, responsible leadership to the Board.
Under her leadership, Wisdom has achieved seven-year ASQA re-registration and continues to expand its scope through accredited qualification development aligned to emerging workforce capability needs. Jana operates confidently within robust regulatory frameworks, overseeing compliance, financial sustainability, risk governance and strategic growth.
Her strengths in large-scale workforce capability, sector foresight, evaluation frameworks and disciplined innovation are directly relevant to AITD’s strategic goals. Jana also brings additional Board exposure through Defence Capability Group engagement, further strengthening collective oversight capability.