MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS, CONTENT,
MEMBERSHIP & DESIGN DEPARTMENT

Head of Marketing and Communications

DARRIN PARKER

darrin.parker@acel.org.au
membership@acel.org.au
books@acel.org.au
  (02) 8396 0802

Darrin Parker is responsible for managing ACEL’s Marketing, communications, digital content, partnerships and advertising as well as managing the design and membership teams plus curating and managing the ACEL bookshop. Darrin brings over 15 years senior marketing and communications management experience working at leading local and international organisations across the entertainment, events, attractions and media sectors including Marketing Director at Paramount Pictures, Group Marketing Manager at Fairfax Media and Marketing Manager at Accor Hotels.

Marketing Executive

JAMES REYNOLDS

james.reynolds@acel.org.au
books@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0801

James Reynolds is ACEL’s Marketing and Communications Executive and first point of contact for ACEL marketing, advertising, content, communications, sponsorship and publishing enquiries. James brings his experience across marketing, communications and content delivery plus a background in executive support with additional qualifications in systems and programming.

Senior Graphic Designer

NALAKA PERERA

nalaka.perera@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0803

Nalaka is in charge of creating the visual identity of ACEL. It is important that the look and feel of the organisation maintains a professional and modern presence. He started out as a freelance designer and photographer while studying a Diploma in Digital Media and a Bachelor in Visual Communications in Sydney. Here at ACEL, his design role involves working on promotional material, digital/web design and print design. Outside of design, Nalaka is also responsible for running IT solutions and technical support around the office.

Graphic Designer

NERISHA HARILAL

nerisha.harilal@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0812

Nerisha is a Graphic Designer at ACEL and is responsible for aiding in the development of all brand collateral. Nerisha has a Diploma of Graphic Design and experience working as an intern in the design industry across various agencies. She is eager to grow and develop her design and professional skills working at ACEL.

Membership & Customer Relations Executive

THERESA TRAN

theresa.tran@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0809

Theresa Tran is ACEL’s Membership and Customer service executive ensuring the efficient daily communication and service of our valued members and customers. Theresa has a proven background in sales and customer service providing dedicated and conscientious support in the retail brands and hospitality industry before becoming part of the ACEL team.

Theresa is our point of contact for ACEL membership and services, providing daily customer service for all member transactions and enquiries.

PROGRAMS & PUBLICATIONS DEPARTMENT

Head of Programs and Publications

CHRIS NEWCOMBE

chris.newcombe@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0805

Chris has worked in education in Australia and internationally for the last 19 years. He worked in a variety of teaching and training roles at all levels and age-groups before moving into education management for universities, not-for-profits and private education providers. He has extensive experience working with accrediting bodies as well as managing events and organisational change management programs. Chris’ experience working with a diverse range of Australian and international education leaders will be at the heart of his approach to driving ACEL’s publications and programs forward in the future.

Programs and Publications Coordinator

CASS VARELLA

cass.varella-chang@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0813

Cass is responsible for the smooth running of the ACEL Programs and Publications. This includes the leadership programs, the conference concurrent sessions and the ACEL Journals, Publications and professional resources.

Cass has a BA in Media, Culture & Communication and a Diploma in Creative Writing for Television & New Media. She has a background in creative writing, filmmaking and television production, as well as experience working in television broadcasting. She looks forward to providing high level support to the members and customers of ACEL through conference, program and publications, while discovering and embarking on new passions with ACEL.

EVENTS & BRANCH SUPPORT DEPARTMENT

Head of Events

PEGGY REEVELL

peggy.reevell@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0804

An accomplished business events professional with over 25 years’ experience across all aspects of conferences, exhibitions and sponsorships. Peggy is passionate about helping organisations meet their objectives through events. She believes events bring opportunities to exchange ideas, collaborate and network with like minded people. Having been involved in delivering many of Australia's biggest national and international conferences, trade & public exhibitions; Peggy has a deep understanding of the intricate details of event planning and delivery. Honing her skills with some of Australia's best venues and event management companies Peggy is looking forward to bringing these skills to ACEL and contributing to their strategic growth and development.

Events Coordinator

ALEX FITZGERALD

alex.fitzgerald@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0810

Alex is responsible for event coordination and logistics of ACEL’s national events and workshops. This includes providing a range of administrative and supportive duties and working closely with the Branch Executives. Prior to Alex’s role at ACEL, she has worked at multiple different event organisations. Most recently in an education organization, coordinating and executing multiple events throughout the year.

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

Head of Finance

JANE LOWMAN

jane.lowman@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0807

Jane is responsible for all aspects of financial management of ACEL. She works in conjunction with Branches, members, the Board and the office team to ensure the company is running efficiently and effectively from a financial perspective. Prior to her role with ACEL Jane was an administration officer, office manager and accounts payable clerk for various companies. She gained an incredible amount of knowledge and skills from more than a decade of experience in office administration and applies this daily to her role as the ACEL Finance Officer.

Accounts Assistant

SUMAN PATEL

suman.patel@acel.org.au
(02) 8396 0811

Suman is an accountant at ACEL and is responsible for keeping the accounts up to date and preparation of financial reports. Suman is an Accountant with experience in bookkeeping, payroll, reconciliation, GST, Income Tax, BAS. She is a Bachelor of Commerce with majoring in Accounting & Finance, Company Secretary and Diploma in Taxation.

Prior to Suman's role at ACEL, she has worked for an Infrastructure finance company, Accounting firm and Logistics company in the area of accounting, Finance and taxation. She is eager to learn and develop her skills in accounting and finance with ACEL.