Leadership That Listens: Building Impact Through People

Leadership – it’s about people and making a difference

It’s a perspective that’s guided Gráinne from the very beginning.

"I quickly learned leadership wasn’t primarily about systems or processes – it was about people. Supporting and listening to ensure we were all working toward something meaningful."

Gráinne is proud of the team that has come together at the Ministry for Regulation: people with deep expertise, a passion for making a difference, and a willingness to roll up their sleeves.

"In just over a year, we’ve gone from start-up to a Ministry delivering not just good advice but real actions that make life a little easier for New Zealanders. We’re building capability across the public service and having an impact across the regulatory system. I’m really proud of that."

She believes that sense of impact starts with building a culture grounded in trust, transparency, and shared purpose.

"I’ve always made a point of being open – sharing the vision, inviting challenge, and being clear when things are still evolving. That openness encourages people to lean in rather than hold back."

Creating clarity in complexity

The opportunity to bring structure to complexity is what attracted Gráinne to the Secretary for Regulation and Chief Executive role. She enjoys working in spaces where things aren’t fully defined and there is room to shape something new and meaningful.

"Setting up a new Ministry doesn’t come around often – it’s a mix of vision and execution. You’re thinking long term, while also making decisions about how things will work day to day. That balance of strategy and delivery is something I’ve always found very motivating."

She also thrives in fast-paced, agile environments where things shift, and plans evolve.

"You’ve got to stay agile without losing sight of your purpose. I love that kind of setting – where you’re building as you go, and every step forward counts."

Gráinne believes strategic leadership is not a solo act. Her advice for leading through complexity includes:

• Get comfortable not having all the answers
• Stay curious: ask questions, test assumptions, and stay focused on outcomes
• Make time to look up and out
• Build trusted relationships across boundaries
  
  

"In just over a year, we’ve gone from start-up to a Ministry delivering not just good advice but real actions that make life a little easier for New Zealanders. We’re building capability across the public service and having an impact across the regulatory system. I’m really proud of that."

Lessons from a life in leadership

Gráinne began her leadership journey in 1992, managing a GP practice as part of the NHS graduate management training programme. Chosen from over 800 applicants, she says she felt lucky, though very much in the deep end.

One of the most transformative roles of her career was managing the central North Island forest, with a turnover of $400 million in domestic and international log sales.

"It was life changing. It taught me perspective, agility, cultural humility and the positive impact good leadership can have on communities and families."

She credits her development not just to roles, but to the people she’s worked with: bosses, mentors, and colleagues who challenged her, backed her, and helped her stay grounded.

"You never stop learning. Leadership is a craft, not a finish line."

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