The Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN Universities) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Andy Marks as its next Executive Director, commencing 19 January 2026.
Dr Marks joins ATN Universities with an accomplished track record in higher education leadership, public affairs, and strategic partnerships. Most recently, Dr Marks was based at Western Sydney University, where he was Vice-President, Public Affairs and Partnerships and Executive Director of the Centre for Western Sydney.
Dr Marks has also held Non-Executive Director positions with Wentworth Healthcare Limited and Evolve Housing, exemplifying his commitment to sector-wide collaboration and community impact.
As an influential public commentator on politics and culture, Dr Marks is a regular contributor to national conversations through appearances on ABC television and radio, and contributions to The Sydney Morning Herald, The Daily Telegraph, and The Australian.
Dr Marks said that he is excited to steer ATN Universities toward bold new directions that continue to benefit the university sector, industry, government and community.
“ATN Universities represent the brightest parts of Australian higher education – they are collaborative, industry-engaged institutions that are driven by homegrown ingenuity and progress. ATN Universities is a respected and trusted voice among industry and government, and I’m thrilled to be taking an active role in continuing the important advocacy that has helped to create one of the world’s greatest education systems,” Dr Marks said.
Quotes attributable to ATN Universities Chair, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO:
“For over 25 years, ATN Universities have been a sector leader in higher education, innovation and industry engagement. I am very excited that Andy Marks 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 higher education system, as universities adapt to the Universities Accord and evolving expectations from government and industry. I have full faith in Andy Marks to lead ATN Universities with a steady hand and bold vision for Australia’s higher education future.”
ATN Universities looks forward to Dr Marks’ leadership as it continues to shape national higher education policy discussions, strengthen industry engagement, and advocate for a strong, future-focused university sector.
