Kia ora koutou – ko Denise Mackay tōku ingoa. I’m based in Wellington, where I work at Te Tai Ōhanga|the Treasury. I’ve been involved with PRINZ for over 20 years now, and to this day I am grateful that our past President, Fiona Cassidy, convinced me to sign-up. It’s been a ride.
I was recently reviewing all the things I’ve been involved with at PRINZ during these 20 years, including: being a member, doing my APR (which I highly recommend to everyone), joining the Central Division committee and later becoming the Chair, being the APR national coordinator, and an APR mentor, having the honour of being admitted to the College of Fellows, being an examiner for the PRINZ awards, a Chief Judge for the PRINZ awards 2022, and now being on the National Board. Phew!
What’s my why? As well as a fantastic national network of experts I can tap into, and the many great friends I have made along the way, my ongoing involvement with PRINZ is fuelled by a genuine passion for enhancing the standing of our profession and helping grow and develop those who join our industry. One of my 2022 highlights so far has been supporting the National Office team with hosting this year’s PRINZ awards – what an amazing display of talent we have.
One of my current side-hustles is working with the Government Head of Communications network – to look at developing a public service communicators’ professional development framework, and to pilot an ‘introduction to’ workshop for communications professionals new to the public sector. Hopefully there is a role for PRINZ in there somewhere too.
Like most Wellingtonians, I enjoy sampling all the region has to offer. I’m particularly partial to a good Wairarapa Pinot Noir alongside a platter of local cheeses. Yum! Perhaps to counter that, I also enjoy getting out and about, exploring the many fantastic tracks we have close by. And for some years now I have been actively involved with volunteering and other activities that help with ‘giving back’ to the community. I’m the Vice President of Dress for Success Wellington, with whom I have been involved for a number of years now.
I’m always keen to chat, hear your thoughts, offer advice, and help with making connections. Please do feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn – and I look forward to meeting many of you at our upcoming events.
Hei konā mai
Denise