Dr Damira Lopes

Associate Dean, Enterprise and Commercial Development

Dr Damira Lopes has a strong background in management at all levels in the recruitment and training sector, including senior roles within business development, strategic planning, human resources and company leadership.

She has served as General Manager for a not for profit organisation and was a committee member of "Apprenticeship Melbourne". She has also managed New Enterprise Incentive Scheme and mentored a number of successful small businesses.

In her current role, Damira is focused on expanding and strengthening educational and workforce development services to business and Enterprise. This includes further development and diversification of the Western Business Enterprise Centre / Victoria University, Melbourne Central Skills Store where she works closely with small businesses and various Government agencies.

Damira is interested in the issues of innovation, entrepreneurship, business incubation and workforce development. She also actively participates in various business and training industry networks. She has a particular interest in the areas of Leadership and Change Management. She is also a member of the VCE examination panel, as a subject expert in Industry and Enterprise, with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessments Authority.

Damira is a former committee member of the Greater Western Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Footscray Reference Group, Braybrook Enterprise and Training Shed, and Business Enterprise Centres Association. She was also a member of the judging panel for the Wyndham and Melton Council's Business Excellence Awards in 2005 and 2006.