academyEX names Glenn Elith as Group Chief Executive

academyEX has appointed Glenn Elith as Group Chief Executive as the tertiary education provider prepares to expand across Australia and New Zealand.

The role is new at the New Zealand-based group. It reflects a plan to grow its reach among working professionals and organisations in both markets.

academyEX focuses on applied learning for people already in work. It positions its courses around AI, emerging technologies and contemporary education practice.

The group began 13 years ago under the name The Mind Lab. Founder Frances Valintine set up the venture as a response to shifts in technology and learning.

More than 10,000 teachers, professionals and self-described changemakers have taken part in its programmes since launch. The organisation says it remains one of the few providers in New Zealand that focuses entirely on future-oriented education for working adults.

The new chief executive will oversee operations across New Zealand and Australia. The group runs Master's degrees, micro-credentials and industry-linked programmes.

It works with government agencies, large companies, educators and community organisations. Many courses focus on AI literacy, leadership and innovation.

Leadership change

Valintine will stay on as Board Chair. She will remain closely involved with Elith and the executive team as the organisation shifts into its next phase of growth.

The group plans to expand its course range and deepen client relationships. It is also seeking a stronger position as a trans-Tasman provider that targets the impact of technological disruption on work.

Valintine said Elith's background and approach matched the organisation's next stage.

"Glenn understands the role education plays in shaping confident, capable leaders. His depth of experience, combined with a genuine commitment to people and learning, makes him an excellent addition to academyEX," said Frances Valintine, Founder and Board Chair, academyEX.

The board expects Elith to lead a strategy that responds to rapid changes in AI and digital tools. It also expects stronger links with employers that are redesigning jobs and training.

Sector experience

Elith has held senior roles across education, retail and hospitality. He previously served as Chief Executive of RedHill Education and NextEd Group.

Those groups operate in the private tertiary sector in Australia. They have focused on both international and domestic students.

Elith has led teams across different campuses and business units. He has also engaged with regulators and industry partners in the education sector.

academyEX said his leadership style focuses on team performance and innovation. It also highlighted his interest in using technology in learning and staff development.

Elith said his priority would be the experience of staff, clients and students.

"The best results come from teams who feel valued, empowered, and inspired to innovate. My goal is to create an environment where our employees can thrive, and where our clients and students can discover their strengths and be confident in shaping their futures.

I'm excited to be joining academyEX and believe that by embracing emerging technologies and welcoming change, we can achieve remarkable things," said Elith.

Trans-Tasman focus

academyEX describes itself as a New Zealand and Australian tertiary education group. It targets professionals and organisations that are responding to rapid technological change.

The organisation designs learning experiences for people who want practical outcomes. Many courses focus on projects that participants implement in their own workplaces and communities.

Its programmes are collaborative and project-based. The group says this approach builds confidence and skills in applying new tools and ideas.

Courses cover topics such as AI literacy, innovation, leadership and contemporary education practice. They range from postgraduate degrees to short, stackable micro-credentials.

academyEX also forms partnerships with employers and industry bodies. These partnerships aim to align course design with changes in work and technology.

The group positions itself at the intersection of education, technology and workplace change. It says this focus is relevant as organisations across Australia and New Zealand adjust to AI and automation.

The appointment of a Group Chief Executive marks a shift towards a more regional structure. It also signals a stronger emphasis on growth beyond the New Zealand market.

academyEX said it expects continued demand for education that addresses AI and digital disruption. The group plans further expansion as it builds its reputation as a trans-Tasman learning provider in this space.