Downer wins Mana Tāngata

31/05/2022

On Tuesday 17 May 2022, Downer’s Human Resources team was the proud recipient of the inaugural Mana Tāngata Award – Leader Māori HR Award at the HRNZ Awards.

The new Mana Tāngata Māori HR Awards recognise individuals or organisations commencing the journey to incorporate bi-cultural HR practices (Emerging Awards) and those demonstrating excellence in the enactment of Tikanga Māori-based HR practice (Leadership Award). It recognises those that have implemented significant programmes over a period of time, and can demonstrate tangible improvement in outcomes for Māori in the workplace.

Evan Jensen, Downer NZ’s Chief Financial Officer and Ngā Kaitiaki O Te Ara Whanake Board Member accepted the award on our behalf, using our new Downer whakataukī. We could not do this with out the fantastic support of our partner Te Puni Kōkiri.

Downer’s Executive General Manager Human Resources, Jan O’Neil, says; “I want to acknowledge everyone who has contributed to the evolution of our Māori Leadership and cultural competence programmes.  This includes the support from our CEO Steve Killeen and our Leadership Team, the governance of Nga Kaitiaki o Te Ara Whanake, the Leadership of Debbie Kirby and all of the Corporate Social Outcomes Team that deliver high quality programmes year after year.

“These awards are extremely prestigious for the HR industry, and this win positions us as one of the best HR teams in the country.  I’m extremely proud of the whole team.”

Congratulations to all HRNZ Awards finalists and winners.