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Sai Ratulomai CMHRNZ

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

My interest in Human Resources began when I was part of a Management Cadet Programme with a large retail organisation in Fiji. As part of the programme, I spent six months attached to the HR function, which was then known as the Personnel Department, and I quickly developed a passion for working with people and supporting positive workplace environments. Since then, I have never looked back, building over 26 years of experience in people, culture, and organisational capability. This passion has also shaped my academic journey, with my PhD focusing on organisational culture and how values-driven cultures can create sustained high performance and competitive advantage, reflecting my commitment to advancing both the practice and thought leadership of the HR profession. 

 

  • What do you love about working in HR?  

What I love most about working in HR is that, to me, it is not just a profession but a calling. I am deeply passionate about working strategically to ensure that an organisation’s most valuable asset, its people, feel supported, engaged, and able to enjoy their work, even during challenging times. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing individuals and teams grow in confidence, achieve success, and genuinely feel excited about what they do as a result of the support and initiatives my team implemented. Knowing that we are adding real value to people’s lives and to the organisations they serve brings a deep sense of fulfilment that goes far beyond financial reward. 

 

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

There have been several highlights in my career, but joining the University of Otago is certainly one of the most significant. This role aligns strongly with my aspiration to work at a strategic level and making an impact in equity spaces while also allowing me to further develop the academic aspects of my career.  

Another key highlight was during my time as Manager HR in a land transport organisation, where I was trusted and supported to implement strategic HR initiatives that helped transform the organisation from a high-risk environment into a flagship organisation. The impact of this work was recognised with study groups from various organisations visiting to learn from the approaches and practices our team had developed. 

 

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

I feel both honoured and deeply satisfied to have achieved Chartered Membership, especially knowing that it is a rigorous and credible process that recognises my skills, experience, and the strategic work I am currently involved in. It gives me confidence that my professional journey and contribution to the HR field are valued at both a national and global level. I also see this as a responsibility and an opportunity to give back to the profession by supporting and mentoring other HR practitioners who may benefit from my guidance, leadership, and encouragement. Ultimately, it strengthens my commitment to advancing the HR profession and making a meaningful difference in the organisations and communities we serve 

 

  • What motivated you to work towards becoming a Chartered Member?  

I had always thought about applying but had not given it much attention. However, a work colleague who was already a Chartered Member encouraged me to consider the process, and this prompted me to take it more seriously. As I learned more, I saw how it would strengthen my credibility, support my current strategic role, and align with my long-term career aspirations. Ultimately, becoming a Chartered Member felt like a natural step to recognise my experience, continue growing professionally, and contribute more meaningfully to the HR profession. 

 

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

 Now that I am a Chartered Member, my next steps are to continue growing as a strategic HR leader and to expand my impact both in Aotearoa New Zealand and across the Pacific. I want to further strengthen my work in organisational culture, leadership, and people capability, while also contributing through research, publication, and thought leadership in the profession.  Ultimately, my goal is to use this platform to create meaningful and sustainable change in workplaces and communities.