People and Capability Advisor  

Stevie Ward reckons she has the best job ever. As the People & Capability Advisor at Skyline Enterprises, she gets to look out over the luge and gondolas every day, knowing she’s helping to bring an iconic New Zealand experience to life.

A self-described ‘people person’, Stevie completed a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Human Resource Management and Marketing at the University of Waikato.

Today, she can make clear links between her studies and what she does in the workplace.

“My favourite paper was one that focused on the ‘human dimension’ of human resources, including recruitment, retention and training and development, which are all relevant in my job today.”

 

“We were also taught computer and literacy skills such as Excel and essay writing, which I have found to be hugely beneficial in my job.  The presentation skills I gained have helped me become more confident with presenting training to staff and conducting interviews.”

During her last few weeks of uni, Stevie saw that Skyline Enterprises was seeking a new HR Coordinator and she jumped at the chance to apply. Her broad range of skills made her the perfect candidate for the position, so it came as no surprise when she landed the job a few weeks before her final semester came to an end.

This role allowed her to develop her knowledge until a restructure in the department meant she was promoted to HR Advisor after just 15 months, allowing her to upskill in other areas.

“The new position has provided a chance for me to gain experience in Health and Safety, training and development, and employee relations. I love the versatility that my job offers, and I intend to take in as much knowledge and skills as I can during my time at Skyline.”

Stevie loves her job, especially getting the chance to develop others and create positive change for a diverse group.

“We have approximately 310 staff working for us during the peak summer season. Staff range from 16 to 60 years old and come from all over the world. It’s wonderful getting to know them and being their first point-of-contact when they join the Skyline family.”

Source: https://www.waikato.ac.nz/study/success-stories/stevie-ward