Jo has a varied portfolio that includes working as a consultant facilitating strategy sessions with leadership teams, coach emerging leaders and lead substantial policy, strategy and gender projects.
Current work:
Recent assignments include facilitating sessions at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London in April 2018, and working with the leadership team of the New Zealand Defence Force to develop strategies to increase the gender diversity of the forces.
She is the part-time Chief Executive of the New Zealand Book Council promoting reading and delivering literacy projects and holds a number of directorships on government and NGO boards.
Keynote Speaker
Jo is regularly invited to deliver keynotes on gender equality, women and leadership and the future of work.
Author:
Her interest in the future of work stems from her experience of moving from a 'traditional' executive career a portfolio one. Her research has resulted in the co-authored book 'Don't Worry About the Robots: How to Survive and Thrive in the New World of Work'.
Previous experience:
Jo was the previous Chief Executive of the Ministry for Women and the Deputy Children's Commissioner. One of the youngest Chief Executives ever appointed in the New Zealand Public Service, she has invested her time and energy in advancing the cause of the vulnerable in society, spearheading some of the most difficult issues of our time, including child abuse, child poverty, family violence and vulnerable women.
Career Highlights
• Chief Executive, Ministry for Women (2012-2016)
• Women of Influence Finalist (2016)
• Leading the Expert Advisory Group on Child Poverty (2012).
• Deputy Children’s Commissioner (2011-2012)
• Doctorate of Public Policy, Victoria University of Wellington (2002-2005)
• Diploma of Management Studies, University of Cambridge, UK (1997-1998)
