Invaluable growth on NZDF’s Lead Capability Programme

Based in Upper Hutt over 8 days, Nick connected with a diverse group of leaders across the Public Service and New Zealand Defence Force. Alongside classroom activities as a group, leaders were split into smaller syndicates to review their Hogan 360 assessments and discuss learnings from the main class. Nick found these syndicate discussions particularly valuable.

“The free and frank conversations gave you a real chance to discuss aspects of leadership and how to adjust your style depending on your Hogan’s scores and the context of your role.

“Understanding challenges or potential derailers as a leader and then looking at methods to mitigate these challenges were invaluable to my growth as a person and a leader.”

Nick’s syndicate of leaders on Lead Capability. 

Nick initially applied for the programme as he sought a leadership development opportunity with a strong operational element to support his work at the Commission.

“I think it really helped me implement strategies to cut through ambiguity and focus on delivering the key outcomes of my role.  It also helped to shape the way I interact with my 1 up or 2 up managers.  For example, how to effectively present challenges and solutions to senior leaders in the most efficient manner as well as understanding the key pieces of context they would need from you to make effective operational decisions.”

Another aspect of the course Nick enjoyed was the diversity of leaders.

“One of the Air Force members of my syndicate was one of the first trained pilots on the P8 while the Army Officers has completed two tours of Afghanistan. NZDF leaders were equally interested in the work we do at the Commission.”

Nick is still in touch with members of his syndicate and enjoys getting updates on how everyone is doing particularly the ones who have been deployed overseas.

Nick’s cohort of New Zealand Defence Force’s Lead Capability.