Amanda Herron-Quan CMHRNZ

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

My career actually started in a very different space, as a graduate property valuer. While I enjoyed aspects of the work, I realised fairly early on that I wanted a career that was more focused on people and where I could have a meaningful impact on an organisation and the people within it. After completing further study, I made the move into HR and worked my way through a broad generalist pathway, building experience across the different areas of the profession and eventually moving into executive-level people leadership roles. What particularly drew me to my current role with Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support was the opportunity to bring that experience into an organisation whose mahi has such a meaningful impact for people and communities across Aotearoa.

What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is knowing that the work we do in People & Wellbeing supports the people who are out there doing incredibly important mahi every day. For me, it’s about creating a workplace where our people feel supported, valued and equipped to do their best work, so they in turn can provide the best possible support to victims across Aotearoa.

What is a career highlight that stands out for you?

One of my biggest career highlights has been seeing the transformation in our workplace over the past few years. Being part of creating an environment where our people feel more supported, connected and engaged, and seeing that reflected in both their feedback and our organisational results, has been incredibly rewarding. Knowing that the work of our People & Wellbeing team has contributed to that change is something I’m really proud of.

What does becoming a Chartered Member mean to you personally?

Becoming Chartered is a really meaningful professional milestone for me. It’s recognition of the experience, skills and contribution I’ve built over my career, particularly knowing that recognition comes from my professional body and peers within the HR profession. It’s something I’m genuinely proud to have achieved.

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

I’m really enjoying the work I’m doing now, so for me the next step isn’t necessarily about moving into another role. I’m increasingly interested in developing my experience in the governance space and exploring opportunities where I can bring my people and organisational perspective to the board table, while continuing to grow and challenge myself professionally.