Executive Team

Ros Marsland

Chair (2024-2026)

Ros Marsland is a dedicated professional, serving as the Manager of the Strategic Projects Department of Education in Western Australia. Her unwavering passion for enhancing school design was ignited during her pivotal role in coordinating the redevelopment of a prominent high school in Perth. With a steadfast commitment to her field, Ros's 16 year membership with Learning Environments Australasia (LEA) has been an invaluable source of support and reward. Her influential leadership was evident as she chaired the WA Events committee from 2007 to 2009 and assumed the role of Chair Elect/Chair for LEA WA from 2012 to 2016. Furthermore, Ros's impact extended to the Regional Council, where she served as a member from 2012 to 2016. Her steadfast involvement with Learning Environments Australasia since 2006 underscores her unwavering dedication to improving educational spaces and advancing the field of school design.

Derek Bartels

Chair-Elect (2026-2028)

Derek Bartels, our new Regional Chair-Elect (2026), is renowned for his innovative approach to contemporary learning and innovative environments across several Australian states. With leadership experience across states and nationally, Derek has drawn from cutting-edge research to shape learning practices within Lutheran schools and beyond. His leadership extends globally, inspiring educational communities to adopt contemporary pedagogical practices, innovative learning environments and whole school transformation. Derek’s passion for future-focused learning environments positions him as a visionary for LEA’s continued evolution and collaboration. He will assume the role of Regional Chair in November 2026, providing us with a guiding light for innovation and progress.

Felicity Lewis

Treasurer

Felicity is the Director-Architecture of Studio GL, a boutique Architecture-Urban Design practice whose focus is the creation of places for people. For the past 10 years, Felicity's experience has shifted to Urban Design, focusing on town Centres and Strategic planning and city-shaping. Prior to establishing Studio GL, Felicity worked in educational design on a wide range of projects within the Catholic school system and for TAFE NSW. Her emphasis was on functional designs that supported the educational goals and enhanced the school community. Felicity was the Chair LE NSW Chapter for 2020 and 2021 and is the current Assistant Treasurer for LEA.

Deb O’Riley

International Director

Deb O’Riley is an Education Consultant for Learning Space Design - previously Director, New Schools, for the Department for Education, South Australia. Deb is an enthusiastic and passionate educator with a real commitment to improving outcomes for all learners. She has held teaching, principal and other leadership roles in a variety of schools and education settings in South Australia. Deb has previously held the position of Chair for Learning Environments Australasia (LEA). Deb’s focus has been to understand elements critical to the successful delivery of contemporary learning environments. Deb believes that learning environments need to encourage and promote multiple modalities of learning and support contemporary pedagogy. International Director October 2022 - October 2025. In 2025 Deb was honoured with LEA Life Membership.

Dani Martin, FRAIA

Secretary

With over 20 years’ experience designing and delivering educational architecture for private and government clients across Queensland and Western Australia, Dani has developed deep expertise in creating impactful learning environments. Her leadership is recognised through her Fellowship with the Australian Institute of Architects and Life Membership with LEA. Dani’s commitment to the sector is further demonstrated through her Directorship with LEA and her leadership of The Mayfield Project, an international research program for emerging professionals. She is passionate about strong stakeholder collaboration, ensuring outcomes that are both inspirational and truly transformative. In 2023 Dani was honoured with LEA Life Membership.

Daniel Smith

Past Chair

Daniel is the Managing Director of Leaf Architecture, a practice grounded in human centred, research driven design. With deep expertise in pedagogy and learning environments, he is committed to creating spaces that improve educational outcomes and support future focused learning. Daniel founded Leaf Architecture in 2015 to advance innovative, evidence based design that strengthens communities and inspires lifelong learners. A long standing leader within LEA, he has served as NSW Chair, Regional Chair, and Convenor of 3 major Regional events, contributing significantly to the evolution of learning environments across Australasia and shaping best practice nationally. In 2025 Daniel was honoured with LEA Life Membership.

Nicola Payne

Marketing + Communications Director

BPsychSc(Hons), BBus(Marketing)/BProfComm, Dip. Events Mgmt. Nicola has an eclectic range of skills in events, marketing, communication, social media, mentoring and leadership. She has conceptualised and implemented end to end events, led major organisational rebranding projects, developed & implemented organisational/business strategic plans and has been instrumental in leading major projects. Her career spans over 29 years and she has worked within educational, government, non-government, not for profit and private sectors. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation makes her a valuable asset LEA and the education community at large. Nicola’s office is located in Brisbane, on Yugarabul Country.

Jennifer Herrera

Senior Operations Officer

Driven by a passion for learning, innovation, and helping solve problems, Jen brings a thoughtful and solutions focused approach to her role. With a strong foundation in administrative operations, Jen is known for her versatility, attention to detail, and ability to quickly master and improve systems and processes. She thrives on creating tailored, effective solutions that support both people and performance, ensuring the smooth delivery of LEA’s programs, communications, and events. Jen is committed to continuous learning and is always exploring new tools and methods to enhance the value she provides to the LEA community. Her work is grounded in integrity, quality, and a deep appreciation for work life balance and team collaboration. Jen is located in Tasmania, Lutruwita Country.