Jenny Williams

Jenny’s career began as an employment lawyer with the Employment Court and Employment Relations Authority, where she gained deep expertise in employment law. She went on to hold senior roles in government, including 13 years with New Zealand Police as National Employment Relations Manager and a member of the senior leadership team. Drawn to Humankind’s values and people-first approach, Jenny joined the team seven years ago and now works as an Associate, partnering with organisations across government and private sector.

Jenny is known for her deep expertise in organisational culture, employment relations, and restorative processes. She is regularly sought out for her ability to diagnose, recommend, and support culture change, as well as for her skill in mediation and facilitation. Jenny operates at a strategic level, bringing a big-picture perspective and a strong relationship focus. She is valued for her empathetic listening, her ability to distil complex issues to their core, and her calm, unflappable presence. Clients and colleagues trust her to provide clarity, challenge thinking, and guide them through uncertainty with care and professionalism.

Jenny is especially proud of leading the introduction of the first code of conduct for New Zealand Police officers, modernising their disciplinary process and helping the organisation mature as an employer. This shifted the focus from punitive regulations to guiding positive behaviours, giving Police a more modern, supportive framework that improved the employment relationship, fostered organisational growth, and created a healthier, more constructive workplace for staff.

Jenny is motivated by a genuine desire to help organisations and people thrive. She believes in the power of clarity and proactive culture work to drive meaningful action and impact. Her service mindset, shaped by years in government, underpins her commitment to supporting clients through complex challenges and helping them focus on what will have the greatest positive impact for their people.

Jenny’s style is calm, thoughtful, and quietly confident. She is a careful listener and observer, taking time to reflect before offering advice. Her legal background gives her the ability to see issues from multiple perspectives, anticipate challenges, and respond with empathy and insight. Jenny forms deep, trusted relationships with clients, respecting their vulnerability and the trust they place in her. She is formal yet relational, highly prepared, and always focused on delivering value and clarity.