Suzanne Leasuasu APHRNZ
What led you to a career in HR/ the position that you are in currently?
I have worked in HR since 2011 starting in the HR Administrator role, through to HR Coordinator, HR Advisor now through to Senior Advisor, People and Capability. I started a career in HR purely because I had graduated from Vic Uni with a double degree Bachelor of Tourism and Bachelor of Commerce and Admin majoring in HR and Management. At that time, I didn’t know what I wanted to do as a career. During my university days I was working part time at an insurance company (in business support area) when the HR Administrator position was advertised. As I had just graduated, I applied for the role hoping to get my foot in the HR door. Since then, I progressed in HR roles at various organisations and companies whilst getting married and having kids in between.
What do you love about working in HR?
For me it’s about the people, connecting with people from different backgrounds and understanding various perspectives is what I love. I also love the challenge within each of the roles that I have had and pushing myself out of my comfort zone especially in the current role I am in; being the lead in HR and thinking more strategically at times rather than the operational day to day tasks.
What is an achievement so far in your career that you are proud of?
I would have to say being in my current role as Senior Advisor, People & Capability at NZPA. Throughout my 3 and half years I have improved parts of the employee life cycle and at the same time have built relationships, which has led me to being part of the Senior Leadership Team. This gives me a huge opportunity to contribute to the success of our people. Having come this far throughout my career and had my beautiful three children is an achievement on its own and I have only been able to achieve that through the support of my husband, family and having great leaders who have recognised the efforts and the value that I bring.
What are your thoughts on the Accredited Professional Member process?
The Accredited Professional Member process is great! If I am being honest, my team member pushed me to go for it and now having gone through the process I actually feel a huge sense of accomplishment and that my HR career has been solidified in a way. I am proud to have achieved this accreditation, and I would encourage others to go for it!
Do you plan to now work towards becoming a Chartered Member?
In a year or two I will think about working towards next steps of becoming a Chartered Member, but for now I want to enjoy being an accredited HR member!
What are your next steps in terms of your career?
My next step is to become a People and Capability Business Partner! I am currently working towards that goal and with that comes the strategic thinking, building relationships with Senior Leaders and understanding the trends and challenges that the organisation may face (within the HR realm) to then putting initiatives in place to ensure we are equipped for what may come our way.