Ashleigh Duncan CMHRNZ

What led you to a career in HR/the position that you are in currently?

I’ve always been drawn to helping people thrive and creating workplaces where they feel valued and supported. I didn’t start out in HR - I actually began wearing the many hats of someone in radio. But looking back, whether it was radio, marketing, or client service, my roles were always about people — finding connection, understanding behaviours, and creating experiences that matter has always been at the heart of what I do. So, ending up in HR feels like a natural fit.

What do you love about working in HR?

Honestly, it’s the impact. HR sits right in the middle of people and strategy, and that’s what makes it so rewarding. I love being able to influence both - whether it’s supporting someone’s growth, guiding leaders through complex challenges, or helping teams work better together. The work is meaningful and constantly evolving, which means there’s always an opportunity to learn, innovate, and create better outcomes for both people and the organisation.

Are there any specific highlights of your career that you wish to share?

Some of the most rewarding moments in my career have been leading developing and rolling out core values for an organisation during a major change - creating a sense of direction and identity. I’ve supported leaders through tough transitions and helped create spaces where people feel safe to have honest, courageous conversations because that’s where real growth happens. I also love coaching and helping others develop their potential.

What are your thoughts on Chartered Membership? How do you feel about being a Chartered Member?

Becoming a Chartered Member of HRNZ has been a real milestone for me. The process gave me the chance to pause and reflect on the capability and expertise I’ve built over the years. It also reinforces the credibility of our profession, and I’m committed to making the most of this opportunity while continuing to learn and grow.

What motivated you to work towards becoming a Chartered Member?

For me, working towards Chartered Membership was about more than ticking a box - it was a chance to step back and really reflect on my strengths, experience, and areas for growth. The framework made that process so valuable. I’ve always believed HR is a profession that deserves greater credibility, and this accreditation helps reinforce that. On a personal level, it means a lot. Achieving Chartered status feels like validation of the capability and expertise I’ve built through experience and hard work.

What are your next steps in terms of your career now that you are a Chartered Member?

Now that I’m a Chartered Member, I’m eager to take on new challenges that push me to grow. My focus is on strengthening my strategic capabilities, partnering more closely with senior leaders, and continuing to shape exceptional workplace experiences. HR is constantly evolving, and that’s what I love about it - I’ll keep learning and adapting. I also aim to broaden my impact by seeking opportunities to influence people strategy at a higher level, contribute to organisational leadership, and support the development of others within the HR profession.