Dr Andrè van Zyl

André has held former international directorships and CFO roles in automotive and security companies including various private and State Schools both in Australia and Internationally. Currently he is the Managing Director of Improving Schools Australia Pty Ltd, Executive Director of Pro-Ed Enterprises (Corporate Governance), Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Chargers Direct Pty Ltd, Non-Executive Director of an APRA regulated Australian Superannuation Fund start up, Advisory Board Member of Somerset Education, Regional Director of Queensland with a global Company The CFO Centre, and independent member of an Audit & Risk Committee for an education board.

Drawing on his 30 years of experience on Not-for-Profit Boards, For-Profit Boards, and Senior Executive Management, André has provided governance training and mentoring advice in the education sector, and small to medium business enterprises. His focus is on the strategic and cyber risk imperatives for companies and graduated with the Australian Institute of Company Directors in 2007.

André has facilitated the AICD Foundations of Directorship Courses since 2016 (recently online) and reviews the Risk and Strategy Course and facilitates the Cyber for Directors and Company Directors Course (CDC). He has a passion for guiding sustainable company growth and scaling with consideration for addressing risk when businesses embark on strategic planning. He is committed to quality Governance Practices (including Cybersecurity, ESG & Business continuity) and consults with organisations in these critical areas.

André has presented at International World Environmental Congresses in Durban, Brisbane, and Montréal since 2007. Qualifications include Bachelor of Science (Industrial Chemistry); Higher Diploma in Education; Bachelor of Education (Hons); Master’s in Education and Doctor of Education (Env Ed). His professional memberships include Fellowships of the AICD, International institute of Directors and Managers and Asia Pacific Institute of Learning Performance; Certified Member of the Governance Institute of Australia; Member of the Australian College of Educators; Member of the Australian Council of Educational Leaders; and a Member of the American Registry of Outstanding Professionals. André is an Industry Supervisor for students undertaking Doctoral Studies in IT (since 2015) for Charles Sturt University and completed the Cybersecurity certification through MIT(USA).