Experienced CFO and Executive, Christian Southward has been appointed to the board of the Hunter TAFE Foundation.
Christian has a background in Finance and IT, with professional experience across a range of roles from small business to large multi-nationals in diverse sectors.
Having benefited greatly from access to educational opportunities throughout his career, starting out with an Accounting course at TAFE, Christian says he is passionate about doing what he can to help provide the same opportunities to others.
“The Hunter TAFE Foundation has a tremendous legacy in this region and makes a real impact in the lives of award and scholarship recipients each year. I am humbled by the opportunity to join the wonderful team on the Board of the Foundation and contribute in any way I can to the continuing impact the Foundation will have in the lives of local TAFE students,” Christian said.
Christian joins a dynamic board of directors, including Karen Howard, Jason Darney (TAFE NSW) Colin Law, Mark Breasley, Cameron Denny, Kiraley Martin and Paul Lobb.
Karen Howard, President of the Hunter TAFE Foundation said they were thrilled to welcome Christian to the board.
“Christian is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and his experience in business management coupled with his desire to support the community will be great assets,” Karen said.
“Whilst many TAFE NSW courses are subsidised, for students, it requires giving up hours of employment to enable them to study which creates added financial pressure. Now more than ever, the support from the Foundation is making a significant difference to a student’s life, their confidence and career journey.”
Established in the year 2000, The Hunter TAFE Foundation provides financial support to TAFE NSW students in the Hunter and Central Coast who are experiencing either personal or financial hardship, assisting them in completing their studies.
In 2022/23, the Foundation awarded a total value of $81,564 in scholarships and awards to 69 recipients.
IMAGE | Christian Southward
