Leading the way: Growing great leaders at Kinetic

Our team, customers and communities are at the heart of everything we do, which is why we work every day to build a stronger, more connected and inclusive workplace where people can thrive. 

Through our Lead the Way program we're uncovering and developing potential wherever it exists in the business. The program is designed to ensure every team member can see a clear pathway for development and progression and empowers them to shape their own careers.

By supporting our people to succeed, we’re not only investing in their growth but also strengthening the foundation of our business for the future. Leadership isn’t just about managing others; it’s about inspiring, listening, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

This October, the Lead the Way program in New Zealand welcomed a new group of leaders ready to take the next step in their professional journey. The 40 participants join a growing network of leaders across our Australasia business who are embracing the opportunity to grow into confident, dynamic leaders who can guide others and make a lasting impact on the business.

Created in partnership with Pragmatic Thinking, specifically for Kinetic, Lead the Way is designed to equip individuals with the skills, mindset, and confidence to lead and support their teams, their communities, and themselves.

Nicky Harrison, Director of People, Culture and Safety says the program isn’t just about learning leadership theory; it’s about empowering people to lead effectively, every day, across every part of the business.

“We know that great leaders don’t just manage tasks, they inspire people. Lead the Way is about giving our members of our team who exhibit great leadership potential the skills and confidence to do just that, while also nurturing their own growth and resilience.”

The course is structured to provide both immersive and flexible learning, with a mixture of in-person and virtual sessions. Participants explore essential leadership topics, ranging from learning about themselves and their management style to having more effective conversations, and understanding what great leadership looks like in practice.

Napier Depot Manager, Sofie Tane, was one of the first New Zealand Lead the Way participants in April this year. She said the program has provided her with practical skills that can be utilised every day.

“This wasn’t your average leadership course. We dug deep into our mindset as leaders, one of my favourite topics was why we sometimes avoid tough conversations.

“Although I still find it uncomfortable to approach those difficult conversations, knowing I have the tools to navigate them, gives me the confidence to initiate them.”

Leaders spanning Kinetic’s various teams and departments, including General Managers, Depot Managers, Workshop Managers, and Support Services, are invited to participate in the program. The mix of perspectives and experiences encourages collaboration and connection, strengthening Kinetic’s leadership culture across the business.

Kinetic New Zealand has been recognised as an Excellence Awardee finalist in the Employer of Choice (>200 staff) category at the HRD Awards New Zealand 2025, with winners announced on 19 November. This nomination follows our HRD 5-Star Employer of Choice achievement earlier this year, reinforcing our commitment to a supporting and inclusive workplace.