Caroline Haku operates on the philosophy of capturing both hearts and minds in everything that she does. Her kindness, sense of community, and passion are attributes which she brings to her work and instils in her teams.
It was these attributes that saw Caroline win the inaugural CEO Award at our Redefining Service Excellence Awards.
Joining Ventia in 2019 as a Service Delivery Manager in the Auckland Council Facilities Management (FM) contract, Caroline quickly established herself as a grounded people leader with deep empathy for and understanding of the workforce.
Humble in nature, she made an immediate and very positive impact, and was soon given more responsibilities. Her role today encompasses all works in the Auckland CBD (Waitemata Local Board area).
Pictured: An Auckland Council Contract team member at work
Recognised by her clients for her strong leadership, Martin Wong, Area Operations Manager, Auckland Council said:
"Can I acknowledge…Caroline and her team - I have spent time with Caroline assessing sites and making decisions on the fly which she actioned immediately. Absolute STAR(s) and very grateful," said Martin.
Caroline's colleagues will also tell you that she role-models the behaviour that she expects from her team. She works hard and holds the people around her in high esteem.
Her commitment to doing good doesn't stop with her responsibilities as Service Delivery Manager. Caroline goes above and beyond with her coordination of events that help the contract, and the wider Ventia community in Auckland, to recognise and celebrate diversity in all its forms.
Pictured: Caroline celebrating alongside Derek Osbron, Katie James, and Matt Scott
Speaking on Caroline, Charmaine Higgins, GE People and Capability, was complimentary of the way that Caroline inspires her team to join her in creating change.
Caroline embodies all the values we uphold at Ventia, effecting change from within - she motivates and champions her team and inspires her colleagues, bringing everyone along for the ride.
Of Māori descent, Caroline proudly shares her culture with her team, organising events including Matariki celebrations and Hangi feasts, hÄ«koi (walks) up Mount Wellington to watch the sun rise for the start of the Māori New Year celebrations, and traditional Hakas performed by fellow employees.
These occasions are extremely moving, help strengthen relationships, and increase understanding of the Māori culture. Caroline also sits as co-Chair on the Ventia Māori Working group and she is an advocate of women in leadership - which is reflected in the ways she supports female participation across the business.
Thank you, Caroline, for your service, dedication and kindness - you are a true role model.