New Chief Executive for the Industry Training Federation

The board of the Industry Training Federation (ITF) has appointed Mark Oldershaw as its new Chief Executive. He replaces Jeremy Baker who left the Federation last month to head Learning State, the Industry Training Organisation for the public sector.

The ITF is the member organisation for New Zealand's Industry Training Organisations.

ITF Chair Ian Elliott said Mr Oldershaw was well placed to drive the strategic direction of the industry training sector, married with government policy objectives.

Mr Oldershaw is currently Director – Government Relations and Advocacy at Network Communications (NZ) Ltd and has held extensive roles in senior management across both the private and public sector.

“His balance of government and private sector experience will complement the partnership nature of industry training,” Mr Elliott said.

 “The Industry Training sector is facing a number of challenges as we strive to support New Zealand’s economic development through a skilled and productive workforce.

“Industry Training is currently under review by Government and the Federation is co-ordinating the response from ITOs to ensure that the review reflects the need.

“The Federation also works with member ITOs on ways in which all ITOs can lift performance and continue to deliver value to taxpayers.

“As well, ITOs are working to ensure the success of the Vocational Pathways initiative which redefine how the NCEA system can be used so that school leavers are better placed for industry-related further study or work.

 “I am confident that Mr Oldershaw has the skills and experience to lead us through these challenging and exciting times,” Mr Elliott said.