Bioeconomy Science Institute (formerly PFR) > Building capability before the storm

Sky New Zealand
Plant & Food Research
Public Trust

The challenge

In 2021, Plant & Food Research — New Zealand's largest public sector science and research body — was preparing for a major transformation of the NZ Science sector and a high level of change, while navigating the perfect storm of the arrival of Covid-19, followed later by the significant impacts of cyclone Gabriel on the horticulture sector. Formal development for leaders had been patchy, and a high level of connection was required across the organisation.  Jes and Bex were brought in to quickly connect leaders, build capability and prepare the organisation for what was coming.

The programme

Two tranches of 120 leaders each — 240 in total — across 6 weekly virtual leadership workshops, with a full Leadership Boost Toolkit built specifically for PFR's people, values and context.

The results

  • Leaders were change-ready and role-modelled the way through BSI's emergence

  • New values were connected to leadership development with an uplift in culture

  • Leaders engaged in continuous development, creating supportive communities of practise and lifting capability

Quarterly Boost sessions continue today.

What did they say?

Hi Jes, I’m happy to provide a reference! Working with Jes and Bex has been inspiring. They are responsive, insightful, and have a knack for offering the right solution at the right time.

I have learned much from working with them, and so have the leaders at PFR!