Human Resources (HR) leaders from Australia and New Zealand gathered in Sydney earlier this month, united by a shared conviction: people are central to mission.
Representatives from the South Pacific Division (SPD), Australian Union Conference (AUC) and New Zealand Pacific Union Conference (NZPUC) met for two days of collaboration hosted by SPD People and Culture.
The gathering highlighted strong alignment across the region, with shared insights and a unified commitment to the Church’s mission. A key takeaway was a renewed understanding of HR as stewardship of calling—not just employment processes.
Reflecting on the meetings, SPD People and Culture general manager Korey Dowling said it captured a spirit of alignment and collective purpose.
“HR is increasingly recognised as a strategic ministry partner, strengthening the Church through people who are called, equipped and sent to serve,” he said.
Pacific HR manager Jane Gibson-Opetaia said the conversations would continue across the wider region, with further discussions planned with Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) and Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM) through the People and Culture team.
