Suzie Matthews | Executive Director, Skills & Workforce Programs
NSW Department of Education

Suzie Matthews is the Executive Director of Skills and Workforce Programs at the NSW Department of Education. With a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in senior leadership roles, Suzie has made significant contributions across various sectors including workforce attraction and retention, vocational education, industry development, and small business support. Her expertise also extends to economic and community development, honed through her extensive experience in local government.    Suzie was recognized with a Public Service Medal for her exceptional leadership in supporting the NSW Education sector’s transition to ‘COVID-normal’ and flood recovery. As the Executive Director of the COVID-19 and Crisis Taskforce in 2022, she led her team in collaboration with NSW Health to implement a COVID-19 policy for NSW schools. She balanced political, strategic, and tactical relationships to develop a plan that reduced school disruptions and supported communities affected by the Northern and Western NSW floods.    Recently, Suzie served as the Executive Director for the Department’s COVID-19 & Crisis Taskforce. She has also held key positions such as Executive Director at TAFE NSW, Acting Executive Director, and Director in Training Services NSW. Suzie is deeply committed to promoting equity, access, and pathways for young people, ensuring they have the opportunities for lifelong learning and employment. Her passion for education and community development drives her dedication to creating inclusive and accessible learning environments.