Dr. Suzanne McKinnon - 30 years
Executive Director People Global Relations & Industry Engagement
Executive Director People, Global Relations and Industry Engagement, Suzanne is a driver of positive change and greatly values staff input across all her portfolios.
Starting off at Holmesglen teaching travel and tourism, Suzanne held two Head of Department roles and led the Faculty of Education, Service Skills and Environment for 10 years. She was appointed Executive Director Engagement and Support in 2017 before moving into her current role in 2023.
Suzanne’s proudest moments at Holmesglen include being awarded Teacher of the Year and completing her Doctor of Education.
Grisel Arancio - 30 years
Scope Of Registration And Reporting Coordinator
Since beginning her career at Holmesglen in 1995, Grisel has remained in the same department, initially as Administrative Coordinator, then rising to Office Manager. In 2016, she joined the Corporate Improvement Unit as Scope of Registration and Reporting Coordinator, a position she now holds in the Office of Teaching and Learning.
A proud moment for Grisel was receiving the Outstanding Administration Staff Member Award in 2006. She has also taken great pride in supporting major initiatives, including the Commonwealth Games, the construction of Holmesglen Hospital, and the creation of the Victorian Tunnelling Centre.
Michelle Fernandez - 30 years
Associate Director, International Education
Arriving in Australia as a new migrant, Michelle embraced every challenge as an opportunity to grow. In the 30 years at Holmesglen, she has worked with people from all backgrounds, deepening her appreciation for humanity and education.
She takes pride in influencing and inspiring students globally and is deeply grateful for the many incredible people at Holmesglen—past and present—who have helped shape her journey.
Helen Georgiou - 30 years
Esse administrative officer - Hospitality, environment, lifestyle and business
Helen’s Holmesglen journey began as a student in a receptionist course, followed by work experience and short-term employment at the Business Centre. Starting off as a receptionist at the Waverley Campus, she worked for 22 years in Horticulture and 8 in Hospitality. Her various roles have included Acting Executive Assistant to the Faculty Dean, and a stint in the Call Connect Centre.
Helen takes pride in her customer service, supporting students throughout their studies, and values Holmesglen’s positive work culture and the recognition received from colleagues, management and students.
Christ Frost - 30 years
Teacher - Furniture and joinery manufacturing (FJM)
A passionate educator, Chris began his career at Holmesglen in 1995, teaching Wood Machining classes and in 2011, he took on management of the Furniture Industry Design Innovation Centre (FIDIC). His commitment to professional development included training in Germany on the latest CNC technology.
Proud moments for Chris include receiving an ASPIRE Certificate of Recognition for Passion and Excellence in Ensuring a Safe Working Environment for Staff and Students. He takes great pride in seeing his students receive awards and recognition for their achievements.
Julie Hitches - 40 years
Awards and apprenticeship coordinator • registrar
Julie began her journey at Holmesglen in 1984 as a Junior Clerical Assistant in the Centre for Business & Industry Development and held various roles over the next 24 years. She joined the Registrar’s Office in 2009 and currently holds the position of Awards and Apprenticeship Coordinator.
One of the most rewarding parts of her role is being involved in Student Graduation and seeing the pride on students’ faces. She was also especially proud of Holmesglen during COVID, when it stepped up to support international students with food, housing and emotional support while they were unable to work.