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Dame Margaret Bazley shares her inspirational career
A leader who has played a transformational role in many sectors of New Zealand public life has shared her personal and professional insights at the latest Bell Gully Women Leaders' Series event.
Dame Margaret Bazley, speaking to an audience of professional women from Wellington public and private sector organisations, said she believes it is particularly important to find the passion in whatever work you do.
She shared her own story of career progression and passion for her work, which began with a career in nursing. Her work as a nurse, she said, remains her proudest achievement to date.
Driven by a commitment to effect change and make a difference, Dame Margaret went on to a variety of high profile roles. She shared her experience and insights from her time as Chief Executive for the Ministry of Social Policy, Secretary for Transport, and as Deputy Chairperson of the State Services Commission, where she was instrumental in the formation of State Owned Enterprises and the State Sector Act.
Recently she has chaired the Government's significant Legal Aid Review and just last month was appointed the Chairperson of a group of Commissioners overseeing Environment Canterbury.
One of the first senior women in the New Zealand public service, among the advice Dame Margaret shared at the event in Bell Gully's Wellington office, was the importance in any new role of taking the time to get to know the people around you as well as to understand the issues.
Bell Gully runs a Women Leaders' Series in Auckland and Wellington as part of a broader Women at Bell Gully programme. Other speakers to date have included former Prime Minister Rt Hon Dame Jenny Shipley, businesswoman Rosanne Meo and Olympic gold medallist Sarah Ulmer.
