Tell us a bit about yourself…
I’m an experienced People and Culture senior leader currently the Head of People & Culture at Oyster Property Group. My career journey has taken me through various strategic People and Culture roles at companies like Samsung Electronics New Zealand, AA New Zealand, and HCL Technologies. My passion lies in creating inclusive and thriving workplace cultures.
Which women inspire you the most?
Inspirational leaders that have broken barriers and inspired me include Alexia Hilbertidou, who is incredibly inspiring due to her unwavering commitment to empowering women through her organisation, GirlBoss. Her dedication and achievements are truly influential and inspirational. She has excelled in empowering women, creating and advocating opportunities with so much passion and purpose.
Rebecca Dobby
Head of People & Culture
Oyster Group
Mel Robbins, who provides motivational content that encourages women to push forward and break barriers, shows courage and dedication to making a positive impact on the world. I listen to her, and this motivates me every day.
Sheryl Sandberg’s book “Lean In” was my personal inspiration, enabling me to build confidence, advocate for leadership roles, and sparking my passion for gender equity in the workplace.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #AccelerateAction—what does this look like to you?
To me, #AccelerateAction means striving to advance gender equality in the workplace, industry and beyond. It involves ensuring that we have policies and processes that are championed at all levels supporting women’s career growth, succession, mentorship, flexible work arrangements, and equal pay initiatives. It also means fostering an inclusive culture where women’s voices are heard and valued, and where we have equal opportunities to lead and succeed.
What do you think is the key to building a workplace where women thrive?
Building a workplace where women thrive requires a multifaceted approach. It starts with creating a supportive and inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. Providing opportunities for training and development, mentorship, succession planning, and professional growth is crucial. Additionally, addressing barriers such as unconscious gender bias and unequal pay is essential to ensure that women have the same opportunities to succeed as their male counterparts. It’s about actively showcasing our gender metrics, achievements, and goals at the executive level to ensure that we are actively working towards achieving what we are striving for.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
To embrace every opportunity for growth and learning. Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and people who believe in your potential. Remember that setbacks are a part of the journey, and each challenge you face will make you stronger and more resilient. Most importantly, stay true to yourself, be authentic and never lose sight of your passion and purpose.
We all belong in property
There is no denying that a diverse industry is a more adaptive industry.
Property Council’s D&I initiatives are proudly driven by our Diversity & Inclusion Committee, a group of 16 property leaders gathered to lead initiatives that bring the industry together and move us forward.