COVID-19 Mental Wellbeing – Interview Series

Appointed on 1 July 2014, Commissioner for Public Sector Employment Erma Ranieri works passionately towards creating a world-leading public sector that serves South Australians well, does what it says it will do, and to which every public servant is proud to belong.

With the role of the public sector being to serve and support South Australia to thrive, Erma leads sector-wide reform to modernise the public sector and continue to build on its value and service to the South Australian community.

Erma has worked for more than 30 years to help organisations optimise productivity and employee wellbeing. She was named a 2014 Telstra Business Woman of the Year as SA Winner of the Telstra Community and Government Award for her role in leading transformational change throughout the public sector.

With a key focus on flexibility, diversity and leadership development to ensure the public sector is positioned as an Employer of Choice, Erma continues to challenge cultural and structural barriers to drive innovative, collaborative and connected services for the community.

Registered Psychologist with a background in forensic psychology and organisational consulting. Luke provides expert medico-legal reports and testimony in criminal matters and has given evidence in all levels of court South Australia. As a Forensic Psychologist he has worked in the areas of deviant sexual behaviours, violence & aggression, fraud, substance abuse and personality disorders.

Over 15 years, practical experience in Workers Compensation, Employee Assistance Program delivery, Critical Incident Management and Forensic Psychology (particularly personality disorders) has combined to provide Luke with powerful insight into human behaviour in the workplace. Luke has written and delivers workshops aimed at improving the confidence and skills of any leader who manages staff. Managing challenging behaviours, improving employee wellbeing, understanding mental health and preventing burnout all impact on improving workplace performance and productivity.