How long have you been at AMS Workforce Management? How has it been going so far?
Maybe 14 or 15 years. It’s much longer than I expected. I started on a three-month contract, thinking I’d find it boring. The fact that I’m still here indicates that it has been anything but boring. It’s been a fascinating journey, with highs and lows, and I’ve gained insights into both myself and business.
What were you doing before this role? How did you find your way to AMS Workforce Management?
I have always been in technology sales. Previously, I was the New Zealand Country Manager for a software company that had a range of solutions, including ERP, retail and rostering. Its rostering solution was used by five DHBs, and that’s how I found the role at AMS. It was an opportunity to work for an organisation specialising in this complex area.
Tell us about some of the projects you’ve been part of this year or last year.
Key projects this year include the migration we are undertaking with Health New Zealand and the implementation of AMS Pulse, our cloud platform, for a significant government agency. Internally, I’ve also led the process of having our application listed on the GDDA Marketplace, and we have all been involved in exploring how we can use AI—from improving efficiency to generating better insights.
Seeing customer projects deliver value is very motivating.
What has stood out most during your time at AMS Workforce Management?
What has stood out most is AMS’s transition, over a number of years, into the technology company we are today, along with the lift in maturity and capability supported by the experience and expertise that came with becoming part of Volaris. AMS started nearly 50 years ago, and seeing the business and its people grow over the past 10 or so years - in capability and mindset, as well as in numbers - has been personally satisfying. It’s something I’ll enjoy looking back on in my career.
What do you enjoy outside of work? Do you have a personal motto or something you live by?
Outside of work, I spend time with my children and grandchildren, I enjoy yoga and cycling, and I live near the ocean on a couple of acres. Growing food, cooking, sharing and eating are also a big part of our life. If I had to define what I live by, it would probably be something like, ‘We are all connected.’ It’s a mindset that colours how you treat others and the world.
What has been the biggest thing you’ve learned since joining AMS Workforce Management?
Something I’ve learned, over and over again, is just how amazing the people who work in payroll are. They understand the responsibility of paying people correctly and are deeply committed to achieving a great outcome. It’s often a role that receives little recognition, and payroll professionals can be on the receiving end of criticism, yet they keep showing up and delivering.
What advice would you give someone thinking about joining AMS Workforce Management?
Of course, do it! If you know someone at AMS, let them know you’re interested.