The workplace of the 21st Century is evolving and changing exponentially. Now, more than ever, the HR practitioner is operating in an increasingly complex environment and is expected to navigate increasing complex HR issues. There is no question that HR underpins the effective functioning of any organisation, but staying ahead of developments in today’s time poor workplace is the challenge.

Cutting across themes of leadership, cultural change and what it means to be a HR professional, this forum provided opportunities for the audience to hear from key speakers about the development of the practice of HR in the public sector.

The Hon Michael O’Brien MP, introduced this forum with Dr Verna Blewett, Director of New Horizon Consulting and Associative Professor of the Appleton Institute for Central Queensland University, being the MC.

This forum was created with the busy HR practitioner in mind or anyone who is looking at a future career in HR. HR professionals at all stages of their career benefited from attending this forum and were able to network with peers and colleagues from across the state, listen to and interact with speakers who are experts in their fields, as well as discuss HR challenges and successes in a supportive, professional environment.

Our presenters and panellists included:

  • Brett Minchington, Chairman/CEO, Employer Brand International;
  • Bill Cinnamond, Director, Public Sector Management Division, Department of the Premier and Cabinet;
  • Rachel Capetanakis, Strategic Program Manager, Office of the Chief Information Officer;
  • Erma Ranieri, Deputy Chief Executive, Department of Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy;
  • Jane Booth, Associate Director, PwC;
  • Keith Bartley, Chief Executive, Department for Education and Child Development; and
  • HR Leaders Panel: Phil O’Loughlin, Erma Ranieri, Jane Booth, Keith Bartley and Bill Cinnamond.