Marina grew up in Geelong and is a Deakin University graduate, completing her Bachelor of Education/Arts in 1999.  She began her teaching careers in a special education setting at Southern Autistic School as a graduate teacher in 2000, then taught various grades (predominantly prep) and dabbled in leadership at Norlane West Primary School, Geelong (now Northern Bay College) from 2002 until 2013.

In 2013, Marina and her family relocated to the Western District. After various teaching roles, Marina became the acting principal at Merino Consolidated School in 2015. She was successfully appointed the principal position at Koroit and District Primary School in 2016. Marina introduced and led the Professional Learning Community approach for improved student outcomes, which resulted in Koroit being recognised as a lead school in this approach.

In March 2022 Marina was appointed to the acting principal position at Warrnambool East Primary School, then successfully appointed to the substantive position from the beginning of 2023.

Marina is the network chair for the Great South West Coast of Government Schools  – 30 schools across Moyne, Warrnambool and Corangamite Shires. She is passionate about connecting principals and school staff and creating the conditions for their best work. Marina is a certified coach – Growth Coaching International and Harvard University –  DataWise school improvement process. Marina is currently completing her Masters of Instructional Leadership – Melbourne University and is a member of the Deakin University Board of Education.