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K_Cooper

MCom (Canterbury), Accredited Mediator LEADR, BCom (Otago), PGDipBus&Admin (Massey)

Visiting Lecturer, University of Otago and University of Canterbury

Kris' advice to learners

Be proud - the power of the projects and work you do as part of the programmes will make real differences in your organisation.

Kris on working at Executive Education

I enjoy working with managers and influencers who are committed to building their knowledge, skills and work results through Executive Education. The opportunity to work with current leaders to help them realise the impact their choices have on their teams and organisations is truly valuable for me.

Sharing stories and experiences, and exploring new ideas and concepts in a structured learning environment helps everyone commit to becoming even better at what they do – me included. It is such a privilege to work with you – and other dedicated people – and be able to support and witness part of your learning and career success

Kris on her role at Executive Education

My courses reflect global research results about what works, as well as emerging thinking. The numbers on the Income Statements and Balance Sheets all reflect choices and behaviours of people. Students are challenged to apply the principles to their own leadership practice, as well as to the global settings with which they are most familiar.

I pay particular attention to the New Zealand context by way of applied examples, including the open commitment to biculturalism in government and quasi-government organisations. The result sought from this approach is a rich smorgasbord of learning about what leadership, strategy and people practices might apply consistently, and where to be careful because of nuances of difference. The ultimate questions remain: “What culture and performance do I seek for my organisation? How will my choices and behavioural actions make that happen?”

Background and experience

I've been teaching in academic environments for nearly 30 years. My knowledge has been enriched by work experience as a consultant and manager, including middle and senior management roles in HR, marketing, planning and operations. I've acted as a consultant across Australasia, advising businesses which operate globally. I've also hosted delegations from many countries throughout Asia and the Pacific, the Americas, the United Kingdom and Europe.

My past role as National President of HRINZ involved travelling and representing New Zealand and its people practices on the international stage. The heartening revelation over the decades has been that there is more in common with people and business internationally than there are differences. The differences however can be the un-doing of business prosperity, and I'm always keen to share and exchange experiences with colleagues and students who have worked in different cultural settings.

Personal membership and key positions

  • FHRINZ (Fellow of Human Resources Institute of New Zealand)
  • MNZIM (Member of the New Zealand Institute of Management)
  • MInstD (Member of the Institute of Directors in New Zealand)
  • Former National President of the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand
  • Former Chair of the Research and Publications Committee
  • Managing Director, Kaycee Projects Ltd - Private Consulting Practice

Areas of Specialisation

  • Strategy, Planning and Implementation, Leadership
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