TOP OF MIND Nick McKissack

The year 2025 marks the 40-year anniversary of HRNZ as a stand-alone professional membership organisation. In August 1985 the organisation was formed as the Institute of Personnel Management, later changing its name to the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand.

The formation of the organisation represented a collaboration across the growing community of people in New Zealand employed in human resources roles. The purpose of the collaboration is reflected in the objectives set out in the Constitution:

• To encourage and support the development of professional knowledge, competence and high standards of performance among its members

• To promote an understanding of all aspects of Human Resource Management and development and its contribution to the performance and leadership of individuals and organisations; and

• To provide an authoritative and influential viewpoint on all matters affecting its members and the management, performance, development and leadership of people at work.

The founders of the organisation recognised that building capability and lifting standards across the profession needed to be a collaborative effort. This is very much reflected in how the organisation evolved and operated in its early years. There was a strong focus on building networks and communities of interest across the country.

The success of the approach was evident in the growth of membership. It was a case of anyone involved in the HR profession becoming a member of the Institute and participating in their professional network.

The success of initiatives at an industry level depends on this collaborative approach. A good example of this is the HRNZ professional accreditation programme. We’ve just completed research into the attitudes of members towards Chartered Membership. One of the reservations expressed about the chartering process is the extent to which it is recognised by employers and recruiters. The reality is that, for this to happen, professional accreditation has to be first embraced and promoted by every serious HR professional in New Zealand. Collectively, we have to say that this profession requires standards, and we commit to meeting them and expecting them of each other. This collective action is how we build credibility for our profession across all industries and organisations.

For HR professionals, achieving influence and showing leadership have always required collaboration, bringing others on the journey is a core superpower. Lifting each other up is a big part of that.

This year, as we mark our 40th anniversary, we also have to register under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022. As part of this, we’ve had to review our Constitution. At the annual general meeting in August, we’ll ask members to approve changes to the Constitution so we can proceed with our registration.

The new Constitution will feature changes that support HRNZ to head into the future and continue to provide the vehicle through which HR professionals can collaborate to improve the standing and success of members throughout New Zealand.