Sarah Jayne Dipert CMHRNZ
What led you to a career in HR/ the position that you are in currently?
Ko wai au? Nō Hāmene, nō Huiterangi hoki ōku tūpuna. Nō Amerika au. Kei Tāmaki Makaurau ahau e noho ana. Ko Sarah Jayne tōku ingoa.
Like many others, I did not set out to develop a career in HR. I didn’t really set out for a career at all. Rather than having a blueprint, or even one of those fabled 5-year plans, I’ve followed a simple mantra of “do the next right thing” (which parents whose children are of a certain age will recognise from Frozen II.)
My U.S. experience was in volunteer service and the non-profit/NGO sector, which took me all over the country, then to American Samoa and Samoa, and finally to Aotearoa.
My core values of education, service and equity brought me to Waipapa Taumata Rau (University of Auckland) a number of years ago and this is where I have spent the majority of my HR career in Aotearoa. I love working in a large, complex organisation that is aligned to my personal values and that presents endless challenges and opportunities.
What do you love about working in HR?
In HR, I am able to play to my strengths; I enjoy getting into the thick of a gnarly problem and dissecting it to find solutions; coming up with – or borrowing – a great idea to inspire change and growth; enabling others to develop and reach their full potential; or supporting a leader to realise a vision.
I have also come to the realisation that my career does not have to be a tale of two disparate halves; I can be an advocate for social justice and my career in HR can be an expression of that.
Are there any specific highlights of your career that you wish to share?
There have been some significant milestones, but I am conscious that some of the work that we do is sensitive for the people involved, and in many cases confidential. At least, going on about it won’t win you many friends at the lunch table.
I have experienced incredible acts of manaakitanga in the care demonstrated to others during times of challenge, and witnessed examples of courageous and authentic leadership from staff at all levels. There will never be a substitute for genuine words of appreciation from an individual or a team. These are the highlights that stick with me.
One highlight that might be of interest to members of HRNZ: In 2021, I was a member of the inaugural cohort of HRNZ’s Transforming HRM in Aotearoa program, which was both a reflection of, and the genesis of, some of the most rewarding work experiences of my life. If you have considered going on the program, do it.
What are your thoughts on Chartered Membership? How do you feel about being a Chartered Member?
The application process itself was relatively straightforward and completing the assessment and receiving my feedback was empowering. With The Path, I also now feel as if I have a solid understanding of my strengths and the areas I can grow in my experience and impact, in alignment with a professional framework designed for the Aotearoa context.
Finally, I feel proud that I was able to put my apprehension and imposter syndrome aside and finally submit my application, which was in the works for an uncomfortably long period of time. I appreciate the people who encouraged me along the way. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou.
What motivated you to work towards becoming a Chartered Member?
I have benefitted greatly from HRNZ membership over the years, and watched with interest as the organisation has evolved, so this was the next natural step. I also set Chartered Membership as a personal development goal, to challenge myself. It is a great way to demonstrate one’s experience and capability, and to be connected with a vibrant community.
What are your next steps in terms of your career now that you are a Chartered Member?
It is tempting to say that my next step is to retire early to a tropical island and write the next great American novel. But there is much good work to be done! I look forward to being more involved with HRNZ and helping others on their development journey.