Kate Avery, Mobility Business Partner, WSP New Zealand Limited

Kate has been shortlisted for the Transformation Award in recognition of her pioneering leadership in transitioning the company to virtual resourcing and virtual mobility.

This innovative initiative, developed in response to the challenges posed by COVID-19, fundamentally changed the approach to employee relocations by allowing New Zealand-based employees to work remotely on projects for WSP offices in Canada and other global locations. This strategic pivot not only preserved the employment of 39 architecture sector employees during a time of local scarcity but also avoided potential layoffs and redundancies.

By collaborating closely with tax, legal, and HR teams, Kate successfully navigated the complexities of compliance, tax implications, and professional insurance, ensuring the program’s successful implementation.

The impact of this initiative has been profound, preventing job losses and enhancing internal resource allocation across departments. As the virtual resourcing model gained traction, it attracted attention from other WSP offices worldwide, positioning WSP New Zealand as a leader in innovation. This transformation has promoted operational agility, cost savings, and a more adaptable workforce, significantly contributing to WSP’s overall global performance and exemplifying the essence of the Transformation Award.