After five years at the helm, Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership CEO Dr Marcia Devlin AM will step down from her role on Friday 16 October 2026.
Dr Devlin has announced that she will not seek an extension to her contract, bringing to an end her tenure with the Academy, which launched in 2022.
Under Dr Devlin’s leadership, the Academy has grown into an important hub for professional learning across Victoria, with more than 63,000 professional learning places across its programs taken up by staff from government, Catholic and independent schools.
Recent 2025 longitudinal data shows that 12 months after learning with the Academy, 91 per cent of graduates report sustained improvements in their practice, while 97 per cent report embedding enhanced approaches in their work.
More than 80 per cent of graduates report a direct positive impact on student outcomes.
The Academy said Dr Devlin’s strategic, steady and authentic leadership had shaped a culture deeply committed to championing the teaching profession and empowering educators.
It said her tenure had left a significant legacy, underpinned by her belief that the Academy’s work is ultimately for young people across Victoria.
“While we will greatly miss her guidance and genuine care for the sector, we celebrate the incredible foundation she has built and wish her the absolute best in her next chapter,” the Academy said.
Peter Saffin to take on Acting CEO role
Peter Saffin will step into the role of Acting CEO from Monday 19 October, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity across the Academy’s operations and programs.
The Academy said it would be business as usual for its partners, schools and program participants as it continued its work supporting Victorian educators and students.
“We are pleased to share that Peter Saffin will step into the role of Acting CEO from Monday 19 October, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity across all our operations and programs,” the Academy said.
“For our partners, schools and program participants, it remains business as usual as we continue our shared work to support Victorian educators and students.”
The Academy thanked Dr Devlin for her extraordinary service and lasting contribution to education across Victoria.