How are our Alumni leading with what's needed for Aotearoa to thrive in the 21st Century? We sat down with RICHARD LLEWELLYN (Alumnus 2011) to track his journey and unlock the ways his leadership mahi is making a difference in Aotearoa since graduating from The NZ Leadership Programme (NZLP).
Since completing NZLP in 2011, where have you journeyed?
So much has changed in that time, both globally and here in Aotearoa. For me personally, over the last decade, my wife and I have had the privilege of seeing both our daughters become adults, and we continue to live, work and play in Auckland. Professionally, I have continued to work with large, values-based and leadership-driven organisations, focusing my mahi on influencing how they can play a greater role in tackling big issues to create long-term value for the business, its customers and Aotearoa.
In what ways has NZLP elevated your way of thinking, seeing or feeling the world?
Being relatively introverted (and having previously worked in roles where to stay ‘below-the-radar’ was a good thing), the Programme exposed me to different perspectives whilst reshaping my thinking about different types of leadership. It dispelled some preconceptions about conventional leadership norms and assisted me to align what I do professionally with bigger issues. I’ve realised we all want to leave behind a better Aotearoa for future generations.
What wisdom and tools from your NZLP experience have you added to your kete?
I’ve found that being able to better listen to and understand different perspectives has been enormously helpful in building coalition between people from diverse backgrounds. I’ve bettered myself at understanding the links between cause and outcome and the importance of connecting the right people together when trying to influence or support systemic change. NZLP gifted me that perspective and made me realise that I could play a role in influencing positive change.
What impact has the Programme had on your organisation or community?
At its heart, NZLP gave me a much broader and more holistic perspective with which to consider organisational and societal challenges. This has added value to the companies where I have worked.
As a corporate sector leader, if you had one piece of advice for future leaders, what would it be?
Something from my Programme experience in 2011 that has stuck: It was the Native American saying: “You can tell a leader by the number of arrows in their back”. I’ve reflected regularly on that since then. To lead and drive change takes courage. It won’t always be popular, but if you believe it’s the right thing to do - do it. Be courageous!
RICHARD LLEWELLYN is Head of External Affairs, Vodafone New Zealand
Did Dan’s story resonate with you? This is one of many courageous, enriching and impactful journeys on The NZ Leadership Programme.
Leadership NZ is on a mission to find the committed, visionary, brave leaders who can lead with what's needed for Aotearoa to thrive in the 21st Century. In this time of uncertainty and change, our purpose to catalyse leadership in Aotearoa as a force for positive change has never felt more important.
Are you a mid-level, senior or community leader in New Zealand who feels purposeful to evolve its leadership landscape? Do you know someone who is?
Applications are open for The NZ Leadership Programme 2022
We warmly invite suitable leaders across New Zealand to apply now.