The Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN Universities) has confirmed the appointment of Dr Andy Marks as its next Executive Director, with his tenure commencing on 19 January 2026.
Dr Marks takes the helm of one of Australia’s most influential university networks at a pivotal moment for the country’s higher education system, as institutions adapt to the recommendations of the Universities Accord and recalibrated expectations around industry engagement, policy influence and strategic partnerships.
Dr Marks joins ATN Universities with a record in higher education leadership, public affairs and strategic engagement. Most recently, he served as Vice-President, Public Affairs and Partnerships at Western Sydney University, where he played a central role in building institutional relationships with government, industry and community partners.
His portfolio also included leadership of the Centre for Western Sydney, reflecting an ongoing commitment to place-based engagement and community impact.
Dr Marks said he was thrilled to lead ATN Universities into its next phase.
“The ATN member universities are Australia’s most industry-engaged and technology-infused universities. They are ideally placed to tackle the big challenges that we confront as a nation and globally. The ATN is a respected and trusted voice among industry and government, and I’m thrilled to be continuing that vital advocacy work in the interests of our members and, importantly, industry and the community.”
ATN Chair Professor Alex Zelinsky AO welcomed Dr Marks’ appointment, highlighting both the timing and strategic opportunity it presents.
“For over 25 years, ATN Universities have been a sector leader in higher education, innovation and industry engagement. I am very excited that Andy will be leading a new era for ATN Universities, and I look forward to working closely alongside him as Chair of the ATN.”
“Andy’s appointment as Executive Director comes at a critical time for Australia’s universities, as we engage with new regulatory frameworks and evolving expectations from industry and students. I have no doubt that, under Andy’s leadership, the ATN Universities will seize these opportunities with purpose, agility and a commitment to positive impact.”
Dr Marks succeeds Professor Kent Anderson, who has served as Interim Executive Director throughout 2025, bringing breadth and depth of experience to the role.
During his interim tenure at ATN Universities, Anderson was widely credited with steady stewardship and a clear focus on strategic engagement. In a reflective profile published in late 2025, he described the role as an opportunity to bring a pragmatic, community-oriented lens to sector leadership, shaped by decades of experience across academia, government and international engagement. Anderson said one of his favourite aspects of the role was working alongside diverse university leaders and practitioners as they wrestled with real-world challenges and opportunities. His leadership underscored the network’s commitment to industry engagement and impact, even as ATN prepared for a broader transition.
The Koala congratulates Andy Marks on his appointment.
