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Helen Steven

Regional Lead, Wellington Regional Skills Leadership Group Secretariat at Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment

Professional Background

Helen Steven is a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience in leadership and relationship management within various educational and governmental organizations. Currently serving as the Regional Lead for the Wellington Regional Skills Leadership Group Secretariat at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the skills strategy for the region. Her expertise in workforce development and management ensures that the local economy meets its evolving skill needs, thereby creating opportunities for both individuals and organizations.

Previously, Helen excelled as a Relationship Manager in the Migrant Skills Retention sector at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, where she initiated programs to help migrants utilize their skills effectively in New Zealand. With a strong background in supporting refugees, she has also held the position of Employer Liaison at the New Zealand Red Cross, advocating for refugee rights and their integration into the workforce.

Her extensive experience includes leadership roles at Hobson Leavy as a Principal and as an Associate and Associate Principal at Executive Appointments in Wellington, where she guided organizations through critical transitions and talent acquisition processes. Helen's analytical skills were honed during her time as a Senior Associate at Heidrick & Struggles and as a Researcher and Team Leader at Bell McCaw Bampfylde, where she led teams in executive search and consultancy.

Education and Achievements

Helen Steven's educational journey is just as impressive as her professional one. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Canterbury, where she developed strategic thinking and communication skills essential for her career. Further enhancing her credentials, she acquired a Graduate Diploma of Commerce in Management from Victoria University of Wellington, which equipped her with foundational management knowledge applicable across various sectors.

Recognizing the increasing need for language skills in a globalized world, Helen pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) through Massey University. This addition to her academic background reflects her commitment to contributing positively to multilingual communities in New Zealand.

Most recently, she has enriched her understanding of Māori language and culture by studying Te Hapūtanga o te Reo (Te Kaupae 5) at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. This dedication to learning Te Reo Māori demonstrates her respect for New Zealand's cultural heritage and her involvement in promoting inclusiveness within the education sector.

Notable Achievements

  • Leadership in Skills Development: As the Regional Lead at the Wellington Regional Skills Leadership Group, Helen has significantly impacted the crafting of effective workforce strategies that aim to align education and training with regional economic needs.

  • Advocacy for Migrant Skills: Her tenure as a Relationship Manager showcased her commitment to maximizing the potential of migrant populations, ensuring they have access to opportunities that suit their skills and experience. This role highlights her understanding of the complexities of workforce integration.

  • Community Engagement: Helen's work at the New Zealand Red Cross underscored her advocacy for underrepresented populations, particularly refugees, demonstrating her dedication to community service and her ability to bridge cultural divides.

  • Executive Recruitment Expertise: Throughout her career, particularly in her roles at Heidrick & Struggles and Bell McCaw Bampfylde, she has developed a keen understanding of candidate assessment and organizational leadership development, making her a valuable asset to any team in need of strategic human resource guidance.

  • Educational Contributions: Helen’s academic pursuits not only reflect her personal growth but also provide her with a rich tapestry of knowledge to influence her work positively, particularly in areas concerning education and cultural competency.

Helen Steven is a passionate advocate for educational equity, cultural respect, and workforce integration. Her diverse background in management, advocacy, and educational guidance equips her with a unique set of skills that continue to benefit various sectors in New Zealand. With a career marked by a commitment to community engagement and empowerment, Helen is an inspiring role model for future leaders in business and education.

Related Questions

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How has Helen Steven's academic background influenced her professional journey?
Helen Steven
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Location

Wellington Region, New Zealand