Rate My Professor Steven Turnbull

Turnbull brings over 23 years of experience in education technology, having progressed through roles such as Network Engineer, Infrastructure Engineer, Infrastructure Manager, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), and Chief Digital Officer. Prior to his appointment at the University of Otago in 2024, he was Chief Digital Officer at Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, leading digital transformation initiatives for the nation's largest tertiary provider, which supports 270,000 students and 14,000 staff nationwide. There, he developed an integrated digital model, implemented best-practice tools and processes, and managed organisational changes under challenging conditions including remote work and tight timelines. Previously, as Chief Information Officer at Otago Polytechnic, he built a high-performing IT team that earned finalist status in the national CIO Best Team Culture Award within three years, demonstrating exceptional openness, support, and resilience during staff reduction pressures. Turnbull also owned and operated Technology Leadership, his consultancy business offering CIO and CISO services to local and national organisations. He holds a Bachelor of Information Technology from Otago Polytechnic. Beyond his professional career, he has dedicated over 25 years to Fire and Emergency New Zealand as a volunteer firefighter, advancing to Senior Station Officer and regional trainer, applying crisis management skills to leadership.