Rachel Barber
Kaiapoi
Summary
Highly motivated and results-driven People and Culture professional with extensive experience in Human Resources and Operations Management. Proven ability to enhance organisational effectiveness, foster positive workplace cultures, and implement strategic HR initiatives. Passionate about working with people at all levels, from frontline staff to senior stakeholders, building strong relationships, and driving inclusivity. Key achievements include successfully expanding a workforce by 50% to meet contract demands and embedding Te Tiriti-led values across business operations. Skilled in navigating complex employment legislation, developing HR policies, and delivering impactful training programmes. Seeking a role where I can utilise my expertise in organisational development, employee engagement, and HR strategy to drive meaningful change.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Operations Manager / Human Resources Manager
Power Jointing 2018 Limited
04.2022 - Current
- Led key operational improvements, focusing on enhancing HR processes and streamlining recruitment strategies to meet organisational goals
- Developed and implemented workforce plans that aligned with project timelines and objectives, ensuring smooth collaboration across teams
- Partnered with the executive board to implement new policies, enhancing organisational efficiency
- Embedded Te Tiriti-led values throughout the business
- Expanded the business by 50%, recruiting roles such as Electrical Engineers, Project Managers, and Civil Operators to meet new contract needs
- Led disciplinary processes, performance improvement plans (PIPs), and ensured compliance with NZ employment law and best practices
- Developed and delivered health and safety training, prioritising staff competency in a high-risk sector
- Conducted thorough H&S incident investigations, producing in-depth reports and implementing preventive measures
- Worked on large job tenders for major council bodies, contributing to securing critical contracts for the company
- Served as the direct manager for Project Managers and coordinators across electrical, civil, traffic, and mechanical divisions, ensuring productivity and collaboration with organisational goals.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
- Supervised Management staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
HR/Recruitment Consultant
Trade Assist
10.2020 - 04.2022
- Directed strategic recruitment initiatives for the Civil construction sector, sourcing top talent for critical roles
- Managed end-to-end recruitment processes, achieving high placement success rates
- Consulted clients on market trends, salary benchmarking, and HR best practices
- Built strong relationships with clients through regular communication and understanding their unique needs.
- Led disciplinary processes and performance management, enhancing team knowledge of NZ employment legislation
- Supported onboarding, training, and employee relations to foster positive workplace environments
National Account Manager / Human Resources
Kelly Services
09.2018 - 11.2020
- Promoted to National Account Manager after excelling in recruitment consultancy
- Achieved a 100% fill rate through effective candidate sourcing and selection processes
- Managed a return-to-work program for incarcerated individuals, conducting interviews and ensuring compliance
- Delivered training sessions to upskill recruitment consultants on industry best practices
- Oversaw disciplinary processes, promoting a positive company culture and adherence to employment regulations
- Built strong relationships with key decision-makers at the executive level within national accounts organizations.
HR Administrator
BNB Smart Renovations
01.2014 - 01.2018
- Maintained accurate HR records with a focus on confidentiality
- Coordinated recruitment processes, including interviews and onboarding
- Supported employee training and professional development initiatives
- Updated HR database with new employee information, changes in benefits, and other details.
- Ensured accurate record-keeping by conducting regular audits of personnel files and HR databases.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of HR best practices, applying this expertise when advising managers on employee matters.
Nursery Teacher/Office Coordinator
Busy Bees Nursery School
01.2008 - 01.2013
- Coordinated daily activities and curriculum for children, ensuring a nurturing and educational environment
- Managed staff schedules and supported professional development for team members
- Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating a variety of teaching methods and materials, such as visual aids and hands-on activities.
- Reconciled account files and produced monthly reports.
- Coordinated with support staff such as special education teachers or therapists to address individual student needs effectively within the classroom setting.
Education
NZHIT
Skills
- Organisational Development
- Contract Negotiation
- Employment Law
- Training and Development
- Operations management
- Team leadership
- Employee relations and conflict resolution
- Performance Management
- Team Building
- Mentoring
- Cultural Awareness
- Recruitment
- Advanced Microsoft Office
- HRIS systems
- H&S Reporting
Certifications And Education
- Internal Education - Employment Law (Best HR Practices)
- RSCA Recruitment Modules
- ADT Drug and Alcohol Testing Certification
- Microsoft Office Level 3
- NZHIT - Understanding 3910 Standards
- NZIM - Manager's Bootcamp
Timeline
Operations Manager / Human Resources Manager
Power Jointing 2018 Limited
04.2022 - Current
HR/Recruitment Consultant
Trade Assist
10.2020 - 04.2022
National Account Manager / Human Resources
Kelly Services
09.2018 - 11.2020
HR Administrator
BNB Smart Renovations
01.2014 - 01.2018
Nursery Teacher/Office Coordinator
Busy Bees Nursery School
01.2008 - 01.2013
NZHIT
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