BENDIGO TAFE yesterday announced that Maria Simpson would become its new chief executive officer.Ms Simpson, a former teacher and senior company executive, expressed her delight at the board’s decision. “I’m looking forward to working with our staff and stakeholders to achieve Bendigo TAFE’s vision of delivering quality outcomes in a supportive learning environment,” she said.Ms Simpson graduated from La Trobe University in arts and education, and taught in Victorian state secondary school for two decades. She holds a number of qualifications including a Masters in Business Administration. In the early 1990s she made the transition into the senior management levels within Telstra Corporation, and currently holds a director position at Castlemaine Health. “Bendigo TAFE is a wonderful education provider and is proud of its role in Bendigo’s history,” she said.“I look forward to being part of the growth and prosperity of the institute over the next few years.” Ms Simpson will officially assume the role after filling in as chief executive officer following the resignation of Dr Louise Harvey in November 2011.Bendigo TAFE board president Margaret O’Rourke said the position had attracted applicants from both interstate and overseas.Ms O’Rourke said the board was unanimous in its support of Ms Simpson, after following a rigorous interview process.“The board was impressed with Maria’s experience in organisational management and leadership skills which the board believes ideally place her to lead Bendigo TAFE into its next exciting phase,” she said.