Gemma Hogg CMHRNZ

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

My path into HR has always been driven by a genuine interest in people and how workplaces can support them to thrive. Early on, I found myself drawn to roles where I could make a practical difference - whether that was supporting recruitment, advising on employment relations, or helping teams navigate change. Over time, I realised that HR was the space where I could combine my strengths in communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building. My current role as Associate at BDO Gisborne allows me to work at a strategic level, supporting both clients and internal teams, and influencing HR practice in a way that aligns with my values. 

What do you love about working in HR?

What I love most about HR is the variety and the opportunity to have a positive impact - no two days are the same. I enjoy being able to support people through challenging situations, help organisations build better workplaces, and see the tangible results of good HR practice. I also value the chance to mentor others, share knowledge, and contribute to a culture where people feel safe, included, and able to grow. 

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

A few highlights stand out for me. Leading a client organisation through a complex workplace change process, ensuring fairness and compliance, was a significant achievement. Mentoring the internal HR team and leading the external consulting team have also been rewarding, as I get to see others develop and succeed. 

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

I see Chartered Membership as a meaningful recognition of capability and commitment to the profession. Achieving this milestone feels like a validation of the work I’ve put in and the standards I hold myself to. It’s also a reminder that there’s always more to learn and contribute, and I’m proud to be part of a community that values ongoing development and good practice. 

What motivated you to work towards becoming a Chartered Member?

I was motivated by a desire to benchmark my experience against national standards and to challenge myself to keep growing. I wanted to demonstrate to clients, colleagues, and myself that I operate at a high level of professionalism and integrity. The process also gave me a chance to reflect on my journey, identify areas for further development, and set new goals for the future.

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 really focused on supporting and uplifting other HR professionals. I want to share what I’ve learned—whether that’s through mentoring, facilitating knowledge-sharing, or helping others navigate complex situations. I see a big part of my role as creating space for others to grow, building capability within the profession, and encouraging best practice. I’m keen to be a resource for my peers, to collaborate on new ideas, and to help foster a strong, supportive HR community.