LOUISE LETHBRIDGE

Louise Lethbridge is the practice manager at Wakefields Lawyers, a full-service law firm in Wellington which specialises in commercial and technology law. In this role Louise is responsible for the general management and operations of the firm, including HR, marketing, and business development. Recent work includes the creative direction over the company’s recent rebrand and new website development, in addition to the general management and oversight of the project.

1. What's appealing about being involved with the Institute of Management?

IMNZ’s professional and credible reputation in the business community is definitely appealing, as is the fact that this reputation attracts some of the best and brightest in the industry. The ability to engage with this community was also initially attractive.

2. How has your involvement with the Institute of Management helped your career?

The seminars I attended have encouraged me to approach my work a little differently and provided me with practical knowledge which I have used in my work every day.

More recently, IMNZ invited me to participate in a seminar on career development, as a panel member. This helped by providing me with professional visibility as well as an opportunity to network with some really inspiring leaders.

One opportunity I would like to take advantage of, but have not yet, is the mentorship arrangements IMNZ offers to its members.

3. What's important to you about joining a management and leadership community?

I look for an organisation which fosters a culture of inclusion and support, not just so that I can feel supported (which I feel is particularly important at this stage in my career), but so that I can help support others in their development.

More generally, the organisation’s vision and values need to align with my own values, and a credible and well managed organisation is also really important when deciding whether to invest as a member.