Sukh Sandhu
Executive Director, Compliance and Quality Assurance (CAQA) / Career Calling International (CCI)
Redefining Education Reform and Compliance Through Vision, Integrity, and Global Impact
Sukh Sandhu is a renowned education reformer, compliance strategist, and visionary leader with over three decades of experience across governance, risk, regulation, and quality assurance. As the Executive Director of Career Calling International and Compliance and Quality Assurance (CAQA), he is transforming how education is delivered, governed, and experienced globally. Through his work, Sukh is redefining what it means to lead with purpose, resilience, and integrity in the ever-evolving landscape of education.
A Lifelong Journey of Learning and Leadership
Sukh’s journey began with passion and purpose long before formal degrees. As a teenager, he taught engineering students and was selected among 60 candidates for professional training in web development despite not having graduated yet. That formative experience set the tone for a career built on preparation, perseverance, and vision.
His path has since spanned non-profits like Save the Children, government bodies like ASQA, and senior executive roles in universities and private RTOs. Every chapter has reinforced his belief that lasting reform must be grounded in ethics, inclusion, and innovation.
Key Milestones and Impact
Over the years, Sukh has achieved numerous pivotal milestones:
- – Founded Career Calling International in 2009, consolidating services in 2013 to form a global consultancy.
- – Led digital audit reforms at ASQA, gaining rare insight into regulatory systems.
- – Conducted thousands of audits and reviews across TEQSA, CRICOS, ISO, and RTO frameworks.
- – Built CAQA into a trusted name across five continents.
- – Received hundreds of awards including CEO of the Year and Most Influential Leader in Education & Compliance.
- – Consistently ranked in the top 1% of digital influencers globally for governance and education thought leadership.
Mission and Vision
Sukh’s mission is to transition education from being reactive and compliance-driven to values-based and visionary. He champions systems that empower rather than punish, creating ecosystems focused on equity, innovation, and continuous improvement. At CAQA and Career Calling, his work builds compliance cultures—not just checklists—and designs policies that protect, empower, and inspire.
Turning Barriers into Bridges
Starting without formal qualifications and limited resources, Sukh faced early skepticism and resistance. But through resilience and relentless self-investment, he went on to complete over 10 master’s degrees, countless diplomas, and certifications. He let the quality of his work speak louder than doubt—and built his credibility on consistency, ethics, and service.
Recognitions and Certifications
Some of Sukh’s most significant recognitions include:
- – Global Excellence in Education Leadership Award
- – CEO of the Year – Education Innovation
- – Top 100 Most Influential Leaders in Governance
- – Hall of Fame Inductee – Education Compliance Reform
- – LinkedIn Top 1% Most Engaged Global Influencers (2012, 2013)
- – National awards for policy innovation, diversity, and sector reforms
His certifications span ISO auditing (9001, 27001, 31000), law, business, marketing, WHS, and education—including an LLM in International Legal Studies from the USA.
Advice to Emerging Leaders
“Start before you feel ready. Don’t wait for a title to define your worth. Lead through service, not status.”
Sukh encourages professionals to invest in learning, serve generously, and let their work and values define their legacy. Success, he says, should be measured in lives touched, systems improved, and voices elevated—not just in salaries or titles.
A Force for Transformation
Through his leadership, Sukh bridges the gap between regulation and innovation. He mentors emerging leaders, advocates for ethical AI, and promotes culturally inclusive environments across the education landscape. His mission is to leave every institution stronger, more accountable, and more learner-centric than before.
Current Initiatives and Vision Ahead
Sukh is actively leading several bold initiatives:
- – Expanding CAQA’s global footprint in India, Canada, and the MENA region.
- – Launching the CAQA AI Governance Lab for ethical AI in education.
- – Publishing his upcoming book: “Beyond Compliance: The Human Side of Leadership.”
- – Developing simulated labs for ICT and healthcare training across VET and higher education.
- – Leading a Future Leaders Incubator for diverse young professionals in governance and digital transformation.
A Legacy of Purpose:
Sukh Sandhu’s story is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and values-led leadership. From humble beginnings to global recognition, he has never wavered in his belief that education is the most powerful tool for transformation—not just of individuals, but of systems and societies. Through his unwavering commitment to reform, innovation, and inclusion, he continues to pave the way for a more ethical, resilient, and learner-centered future. For the next generation of leaders, his message is clear: lead with courage, build with purpose, and never underestimate the impact of one bold voice dedicated to change.
