Adrienne Martin CMHRNZ

Please walk us through the journey that led you into your current role. 

My path to my current role has been a gradual one, shaped by many years working in people‑focused positions and a genuine interest in how individuals and organisations grow. I began in HR and payroll roles, where I learned the basics of people processes, communication, and how important it is to treat others with honesty and respect. Those early experiences gave me a solid understanding of how organisations operate day‑to‑day. 

Over time, I moved into broader People & Capability roles largely within local government. Each step gave me the chance to support leaders, help teams navigate challenges, and contribute to building healthier workplace cultures. I’ve never seen myself as someone chasing titles — I’ve simply followed the work that felt meaningful and aligned with my values. 

In many ways, I’ve arrived here through a mix of experience, some good, some good learning opportunities, curiosity, and a genuine desire to help people do well.

What is the best part of your job? 

For me, the best part of my job is seeing people grow in their own time and in their own way. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch someone gain confidence, find clarity, or take a step they weren’t sure they could take. Being able to support people through those moments feels like a real privilege. 

I also value the relationships that come with this work. Getting to know people, understanding what motivates them, and being trusted to walk alongside them through both challenges and successes, is something I never take for granted. 

At the end of the day, I enjoy the challenge that can come from balancing an organisations objectives with the on the ground operations, what motivates me most is knowing that the work I do can make a genuine difference. 

What is a career highlight that stands out for you? 

One highlight that stands out is having the opportunity to step into senior leadership during a time of significant challenge and change both through Covid and Cyclone Gabrielle. It wasn’t an easy period, but being able to support people through uncertainty and help strengthen capability and connection across the organisation was something I’m quietly proud of.  

For me, it is imperative that I do everything I can to recognise and acknowledge the mana each person brings to the work they do. 

What does becoming a Chartered Member mean to you personally? 

Becoming a Chartered Member reinforces the responsibility that comes with working in this profession. For me, Chartered status isn’t about a title; it’s a reminder to keep learning, keep improving, and keep contributing in a way that supports others. 

What pushed you towards pursuing Chartered Membership? 

I pursued Chartered Membership because it was about recognising the importance of ongoing development and holding myself to a standard that aligns with the responsibility of working in people‑focused roles. 

I’ve always believed in stretching myself and continuing to learn, and becoming Chartered felt like a natural step in that journey. It encouraged me to reflect on my practice and acknowledge the experiences that have shaped me. 

Now that you are a Chartered Member, what do you see as being the next steps for your career? 

Now that I’m a Chartered Member, I see this as a chance to continue growing — not necessarily in terms of position, but in terms of impact.  

I’d like to keep learning, take on new challenges, and contribute to conversations that help shape better people practices where I can across the motu. Mentoring emerging leaders is something I’d like to do more of as well. 

For me, the next chapter is about continuing to show up with integrity, using my experience in a way that’s helpful to others, and contributing to organisations that value people and community.