From the editor

There’s a whakataukī (proverb) in te reo Māori: Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini. (My strength is not that of an individual, but that of many.) HRNZ applies this whakataukī as a way to unite the collective vision and approach as HR professionals.

This collective vision and approach is what this issue is all about. We dive deep into what it truly means for HR to have – and more importantly, strengthen –its seat at the leadership table.

Gone are the days when HR was viewed merely as a support function, processing paperwork and managing employee complaints. Now, in senior leadership team meetings and boardrooms all across the motu, HR leaders are increasingly being called upon to shape strategy, drive cultural transformation and tackle complex challenges like hybrid work models, the rising cost of living’s impact and the impact of AI.

In this issue, we’ve gathered insights from some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most influential HR leaders. They share their stories about building credibility with the leadership team and balancing commercial acumen with employee advocacy.

You’ll find practical advice on a range of matters, from listening to leadership’s challenges to influencing strategic decisions. You can also read the perspective of a CFO and how he advises HR and Finance to work together to influence upwards. And you can learn about what governance actually is and how you can establish a Board’s people and culture committee.

What’s become clear through putting together this issue is that HR’s journey to the leadership table isn’t just about claiming a seat, it’s about bringing unique value once you’re there. As Lynda Carroll and Melissa Clark-Reynolds tell us, “By implementing effective HR governance, organisations can ensure all people-related strategies are aligned to the purpose and strategy of the organisation, peoplerelated risks are identified and effectively managed and shareholder value is delivered.”

I hope this issue gives you the tools and confidence to strengthen your own leadership voice, whether you’re just starting out or already wellestablished in your role.

Kathy Young EditorKathy.Young@hrnz.org.nzEDITOR