Swinburne University Welcomes Its First Chief Data Analytics Officer

Swinburne University of Technology is embarking on a new chapter in its data strategy with the appointment of Anthony Perera as its first Chief Data Analytics Officer (CDAO). This role marks a significant step for the Melbourne-based institution, highlighting its commitment to leveraging data for operational optimization and enhanced strategic insights.

Perera, who joins Swinburne from La Trobe University where he also served as CDAO, will focus on amplifying the university’s capabilities in data engineering, advanced analytics, and the integration of artificial intelligence. His appointment underscores Swinburne’s strategic emphasis on harnessing data to drive actionable business insights and support decision-making processes across all university divisions.

In his new role, Perera will be tasked with transforming how data is used to improve various facets of the university’s operations. This includes refining data management practices, advancing business intelligence, and enhancing strategic planning initiatives. Perera aims to use his extensive experience to enhance both the student and partner experience by implementing innovative data-driven solutions that align with Swinburne’s goals in technology and innovation.

Perera will report to Chief Information Officer Claes Mansson, who began his tenure at Swinburne in January 2024. Mansson, who joined the university following a comprehensive search, emphasized the importance of Perera’s role in driving the university’s success.  According to Mansson, Perera and his team are set to play a crucial role in advancing Swinburne University’s strategic goals by harnessing the power of data. Perera’s responsibilities will include leveraging data analytics to unlock new opportunities for students, streamline and enhance operational efficiencies, and provide valuable insights that will drive research innovation and productivity.

Mansson emphasized that Perera’s expertise will be instrumental in shaping the university’s data strategy, ensuring that actionable insights are effectively integrated into decision-making processes across all divisions. This integration is expected to lead to significant improvements in the student experience, operational effectiveness, and research capabilities.

By optimizing how data is used and analyzed, Perera’s role will also contribute to the university’s broader mission of advancing technological innovation and maintaining its competitive edge in the education sector. The impact of these data-driven initiatives is anticipated to enhance Swinburne’s research outcomes, academic performance, and overall institutional effectiveness, aligning with the university’s goals for growth and excellence.

This strategic appointment is part of Swinburne University’s broader effort to leverage data and technology as core components of its institutional strategy. By integrating advanced data analytics into its operations, Swinburne aims to enhance efficiency, foster innovation, and strengthen its competitive edge in the educational sector.

The role of Chief Data Analytics Officer (CDAO) is pivotal in ensuring that Swinburne University of Technology fully leverages its data assets to support its mission and advance its research and academic goals. By providing strategic oversight and direction in data management, analytics, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, the CDAO will play a crucial role in optimizing university operations, enhancing the student and partner experience, and driving informed decision-making across the institution. This strategic position aims to harness the full potential of data to foster innovation, improve efficiency, and achieve the university's long-term objectives.