Headquarters:
355 Station Street, Box Hill, Vic 3128
Year founded:
1890
Number of employees:
120
Phone:
03 9896 1700
Email:
reception@kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au
Website:
kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au
LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/school/kingswood-college-melbourne
“We prioritise embracing cutting-edge technologies, creative problem solving and continuous improvement to enhance our premium funding solutions and provide exceptional value to our clients”
Chrissy Gamble
Principal
Chris Mara
Director of Business
Amy Lovell
Head of School (K–6)
Leadership
Chrissy Gamble was appointed principal of Kingswood College in 2023 and brings nearly 30 years of experience in independent schools across Australia. She is a passionate, articulate leader committed to excellence and community building. Gamble strongly supports the value of independent education and is dedicated to helping students and staff achieve their best. Her career spans teaching, leadership, governance and curriculum development from Kindergarten to Year 12. She holds a Master of Education from Murdoch University, with research focused on gifted and talented students and the role of accelerated learning in supporting their development.
Principal
Chrissy Gamble
Chris Mara commenced as director of business at Kingswood College in 2021. His role focuses on ensuring the college’s financial sustainability, maintaining its facilities and guiding its strategic direction. Since 2012, he has worked in the education sector, including as finance manager at Korowa Anglican Girls’ College from 2017. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Graduate Diploma in Chartered Accounting, a Certificate in Governance for Not-for-Profits and a Master of Business Administration. Mara is also a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Association of School Business Administrators (ASBA) and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).
Director of Business
Chris Mara
Amy Lovell commenced as head of school (K–6) in 2020. Since 2001, she has taught from Prep to Year 12 across multiple subjects and held key leadership roles, including at Carey Baptist Grammar School’s junior school from 2005 to 2020. Lovell holds a Bachelor of Arts, a Graduate Diploma of Education and a Graduate Certificate in Education (Specific Learning Difficulties), all from the University of Melbourne. She has led curriculum reviews, implemented impactful learning programs, and is committed to challenging every child in their learning. Lovell believes high-quality early education shapes lifelong learners and supports individual growth and personal best.
Head of School (K–6)
Amy Lovell
BRETT BASTOW, IQUMULATE PREMIUM FUNDINGs
Leadership
Leadership
Lisa Sacristani
Head of School (7–9)
Lisa Sacristani commenced as head of school (Years 7–9) in 2023. A dedicated and experienced middle years leader, she previously served as head of junior secondary at Donvale Christian College, where she spent over a decade in various leadership and teaching roles, including head of Year 9 and teacher of English, humanities and sport. Prior to this, Sacristani taught in a range of educational settings, gaining valuable insight into diverse school communities. She completed a Master of Education (Leadership) at the University of Melbourne in 2021. Sacristani values strong relationships and is committed to fostering identity, belonging and self-worth in every student.
Head of School (7–9)
Lisa Sacristani
Rob Fuller
Head of School (10-12)
Rob Fuller commenced as head of school (Years 10–12) in 2024. He joined Kingswood College from Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School, where he was director of curriculum. He is a passionate teacher of politics, history and English and has held roles such as year level coordinator and curriculum leader across the middle and senior years. He is deeply committed to supporting students through their VCE journey and enhancing teacher practice. At Kingswood, Fuller has introduced improved subject selection processes, reimagined the Student Representative Council and strengthened student-centred initiatives that promote resilience, character and meaningful real-world learning experiences.
Head of School (10-12)
Rob Fuller
Stevens & Associates Lawyers is a leading and trusted employment law firm based in Sydney known for delivering high-quality legal expertise in the area of employment law and industrial relations across Australia, alongside a proven track record of effectively and swiftly resolving a variety of workplace law issues.
In the past year, the firm’s growth has been notable. It has:
• experienced a 213% growth in the number of client matters, increasing from 149 client matters in the 2022 financial year to 390 client matters in the 2023 financial year
• improved its online visibility, leading to over 50 online enquiries each month and a conversion rate of client leads of up to 40%
• significantly expanded the breadth and type of matters that it advises on day to day, which has increased the firm’s skillsets, diversity and resilience
• expanded its community outreach by collaborating with local Sydney venues for client seminars and continuing active participation in a Sydney small/family business group
Stevens & Associates Lawyers has adapted to digital trends by implementing an effective strategy with SEO and web design, resulting in a structural shift that has seen increased representation of employees where the firm previously mainly advised employers.
The firm’s recognition as a “Fast Firm” attests to its momentum in the employment law space.
“IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started”
Wayne Tower,
IQumulate Premium Funding
Tina Flyger
Head of People and Culture
Matthew Westwood-Hill
Chief Information Security Officer
Kathy Pallasis
Manager, Human Resources
Pam Chhabra
Manager – Residential Strata
Tina Flyger commenced as head of people and culture in 2024. With over 15 years of human resources experience, she believes people are the cornerstone of any organisation. She takes a collaborative approach, working closely with executives, managers and teams to shape and deliver effective strategy. She is a dynamic, approachable and highly experienced people and culture leader, with a background spanning both schools and industry. Flyger’s expertise is key to nurturing staff and students, strengthening relationships, and fostering a positive, forward-looking culture that supports the continued growth and success of the Kingswood College community.
Head of People and Culture
Tina Flyger
Matthew Westwood-Hill is a seasoned cyber security leader with over 20 years’ experience in digital forensics, incident response and information security. He has led teams at SBS, CyberCX, and Ernst & Young, managing major incidents and aligning security strategies with business goals.
Westwood-Hill is known for his innovative, risk-reducing solutions and clear communication with executives and regulators. He drives awareness, compliance and resilience through training, policy and strategic planning. A frequent speaker and media contributor, he holds advanced qualifications in cyber security and digital forensics and is a recognised expert witness committed to continuous learning and emerging threat readiness.
Chief Information Security Officer
Matthew Westwood-Hill
Kathy Pallasis, manager, human resources at Frontier Software, leads HR strategy and operations from Melbourne. She oversees policy development, employee relations, and internal communications, working closely with senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
Pallasis is known for her clear, responsive communication and collaborative approach. She manages employee records, supports strategic planning and coordinates workplace logistics. With experience in enterprise software, payroll systems and governance, Pallasis is a trusted resource for internal stakeholders.
She holds a humanities degree, is a member of AHRI, and actively contributes to continuous improvement and inclusive workplace practices through policy and operational leadership.
Manager, Human Resources
Kathy Pallasis
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Commercial Manager
Stephen McMillan
One culmination of these efforts has been the real-world, needs-based IQEdge solution. A one-stop online quoting tool designed for both the Australian and New Zealand markets, IQEdge delivers quotes in under 60 seconds. Plus, the solution offers quote comparison and quote versioning capabilities, enabling users to review vital historical and financial data in a single page view.
IQEdge can streamline and automate application processing, underwriting document verification and payment collection, cutting the need for manual labour and minimising processing errors. A digital “self-service” platform, IQEdge, reduces the need for customer and administrative support. Meanwhile, borrowers can access their accounts, make payments and manage their policies independently and through sales and support teams, which are always available for further assistance.
“We’ve created a quality platform that simplifies the quoting process yet amplifies the customer experience,” says Gordon. “It’s a real game changer.” IQumulate offers an online digital quoting tool to clients. The best-in-market solution enables IQumulate to tailor funding offerings to brokers that align with their prefered distribution channel.
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What does IQumulate have in mind for the future?
“IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started,” says Wayne Tower, CEO. “Through continuous engagement with our clients, partners, marketplace and industry, we will listen to the needs as they arise and position our business to be agile and respond to changes as they occur.
“Faster decision-making innovations such as AI-powered decision support systems can expedite the underwriting and approval process, leading to quicker responses to clients. This can improve client satisfaction and potentially attract more business, creating a competitive advantage with the potential to allow IQumulate to command premium pricing or capture a larger market share.
“As forward-thinkers with a digital and ‘do it better’ mindset, we collectively and proactively look to learn and improve on our customer experience for our clients, paving the way for successful business outcomes for our clients and our business in the coming years ahead.
“We’re excited for the future and look forward to what’s on the horizon.”
Adam Basaldella
Manager – Claims
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Commercial Manager
Stephen McMillan
Claire Watson
Product Manager
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
Claire Watson
Product Manager
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
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XXXXX,Kingswood College
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XXXXX,Kingswood College
Ivan Verescuk
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director
Shaun O’Brien
Head of Underwriting
Emily Walker
Head of Strata and Development
Rex Oakman
Head of Operations and Risk
Sandy Newton
Head of Underwriting
Andrew Mitchell
Manager – NSW
Michael Prokopis
Manager – Southern Region
Pam Chhabra
Manager – Residential Strata
Jeffrey Valdivia
Manager – Commercial Strata
Adam Basaldella
Manager – Claims
Founded in 1890, Kingswood College is an independent, co-educational school located in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, providing education from kindergarten through to Year 12. Guided by the core values of respect, kindness, courage, perseverance and excellence, it is dedicated to creating a learning environment where every student is inspired and challenged.
Academic programs at Kingswood College are thoughtfully tailored to meet the needs of individual learners, from an explicit approach to learning in the younger years to specialised VCE pathways in the Senior School. At every stage, students benefit from the guidance of dedicated teachers.
Learning is at the heart of the Kingswood experience. The school’s comprehensive Careers Program plays a vital role in supporting students’ personal growth and guiding them through their educational journey and beyond. Kingswood College is committed to developing confident, courageous and resilient individuals who are well-prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world. A rich co-curricular offering, including sport, the arts, clubs and innovative experiences encourages students to discover and pursue their passions.
Set on a picturesque 20-acre campus that blends heritage architecture with modern facilities, Kingswood College is a vibrant, rigorous learning environment. Its passionate staff and active alumni community are a testament to the school’s enduring legacy and ongoing commitment to excellence.
IQumulate invests in education and people, which are vital to attracting new business and talent to the company.
“We have long tenures for several of our key staff, including some in leadership positions, and this sound working knowledge of our business, practices and industry provides great insights and a wealth of experience to offer our clients,” says Bastow. “Our new head of sales, Graeme Gordon, formerly manager for New Zealand, joins us in Australia to drive our sales strategy and lead our team to successful outcomes for our clients and our business. We look forward to great things ahead with Graeme as he continues to be active and present in the New Zealand market as well as building sound working relationships and new connections in Australia.”
Clients can also expect a lot from working with IQumulate.
“Through active engagement with our trusted broker network, IQumulate provides relevant information, education and training content,” says Graeme Gordon, head of sales. “Our clients can expect IQumulate to support their business in several ways, providing an understanding of what premium funding solutions are available and how IQumulate can spread the cost of insurance and help borrowers get the right level of insurance cover to free up their cash flow for other expenses or business growth opportunities. Premium funding is often considered a tool for those who simply cannot afford to pay their premiums in full. While this is certainly a significant driver for many, it is also successfully used by profitable companies who use premium funding to manage their cash flows more wisely or better manage their liquidity.”
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Culture
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Overall
Learning is at the heart of the Kingswood experience. The school’s comprehensive Careers Program plays a vital role in supporting students’ personal growth and guiding them through their educational journey and beyond. Kingswood College is committed to developing confident, courageous and resilient individuals who are well-prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world. A rich co-curricular offering including sport, the arts, clubs and innovative experiences encourages students to discover and pursue their passions.
Set on a picturesque 20-acre campus that blends heritage architecture with modern facilities, Kingswood College is a vibrant, rigorous learning environment. Its passionate staff and active alumni community are a testament to the school’s enduring legacy and ongoing commitment to excellence.