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Nina Cullen
CEO IPAA Victoria
Professional Background
Nina Cullen has built a distinguished career that spans multiple sectors including public health, environmental policy, and public administration. Currently, she serves as the CEO of the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) Victoria, where she leads initiatives aimed at enhancing public sector capabilities and fostering professional development among public servants. Her leadership at IPAA Victoria is characterized by a commitment to public service excellence and governance, driving engagement and innovation within the public administration community.
Prior to her current role, Nina held significant positions within the Victorian Department of Health, where she was the Executive Director of Public Health Policy and Strategy Division, focusing on vital health responses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her efforts in this role were instrumental in navigating the complex challenges posed by the health crisis, ensuring coordinated and effective public health policy implementation.
Furthermore, Nina has garnered extensive experience within the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. She served as the Executive Director of Strategy and Performance, responsible for overseeing strategic initiatives and performance management related to environmental governance. Her tenure includes serving as Acting Deputy Secretary for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, where she developed and implemented policies to address pressing environmental issues, highlighting her dedication to sustainability and climate action. Additionally, she held the role of Executive Director of the Biodiversity Division, where she played a crucial role in safeguarding Victoria’s natural resources and promoting biodiversity initiatives.
Education and Achievements
Nina Cullen possesses a robust academic background, having pursued a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) at The Australian National University. This diverse educational foundation has equipped her with critical analytical skills and a scientific approach to policy-making. Combining legal knowledge with scientific inquiry allows Nina to tackle complex issues effectively, making her a highly respected figure in her fields of expertise.
Further enhancing her qualifications, Nina completed the Executive Masters in Public Policy program at the University of Melbourne through the Australia and New Zealand School of Government (ANZSOG). This prestigious program is renowned for developing future public leaders, and Nina’s participation reflects her commitment to continuous learning and her ambition to influence public policy at higher levels.
Nina’s accomplishments have not only impacted her immediate roles but have also contributed to broader public policy discussions. Her leadership and strategic vision foster collaboration among agencies and stakeholders, which is vital for addressing multifaceted public issues such as health, environment, and community resilience. She is recognized for her ability to drive change and improve operational efficiencies, earning her a reputation as a transformative leader in the public sector.
Achievements
Throughout her impressive career, Nina Cullen has achieved notable milestones that underscore her expertise and impactful contributions to government policy and public health strategy. A significant highlight includes her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic response in Victoria, where she managed the Public Health Policy and Strategy Division. Her ability to develop and implement effective strategies during such an unprecedented crisis demonstrates her resilience and decision-making acumen.
Additionally, Nina played a key role in shaping environmental policy through her various positions at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. She has been an advocate for sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation, leading initiatives that not only address environmental challenges but also promote community engagement and awareness on these crucial topics.
In her current role as CEO of IPAA Victoria, Nina continues to elevate the standards of public administration, influencing future generations of public servants through her visionary leadership and commitment to integrity in governance. Her work not only helps enhance the operational capabilities of public sector organizations but also shapes the dialogue around effective public service and policy responsiveness in Australia.
Overall, Nina Cullen's extensive education, diverse experience, and commitment to excellence in public administration make her a notable leader and a source of inspiration for those in the fields of public policy and government service.