Fiona Murphy. Photo by David Roma

Commentary by People & Culture Director, Fiona Murphy

In 2021, the directorate known as UNE Human Resources changed its name to UNE People and Culture. The change is not merely cosmetic. It signals a commitment and intent to supporting people within the UNE Community by building a values-based culture where we are OPEN, ENQUIRING, EXCEPTIONAL and strive to MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Organisations don’t change: people change and the organisation changes with them. The People and Culture team will be coaching and supporting leaders, teams and individual staff members to reflect on their roles, and to adapt and thrive within them.  We within the directorate are also turning the lens on ourselves, looking at how we can improve our systems, processes and ways of working to provide better service and support across the UNE community as we move towards a Digital Plus future.

There are many ways for each of us to connect to the University Strategy and clarify the role that we each play in delivering desired outcomes. 

One immediate opening is the process of PPDR (Performance Planning Development and Review).  PPDR creates space for conversations with our managers that build understanding and context around the University Strategy – what does it mean for me and my team? – and to identify development activities and actions that will help deliver work goals and achieve career aspirations.

This year, the aim is for each person to have three PPDR conversations with their manager or supervisor.  Many staff may have already had more than three conversations about their progress and development, but others may have barely broached the topic. 

If you haven’t created the space and time to consider your own goals, development and contribution here at UNE, ask yourself why?  What’s getting in the way? Is there anything that you need to move forward?  Reach out to those you trust for advice and support to help you get traction.

UNE encourages and supports the ongoing development of all staff to perform at their best and to contribute positively to the work environment.  We are committed to enhancing a culture that values and recognises performance, and the PPDR is a primary tool in enabling each of us to succeed and contribute to the success of the University.