Emma drives the efforts and impact of Good Shepherd in Aotearoa. She works closely with the Board.

Her background weaves together social research, product and service design, and organisation leadership. She is deeply skilled in uncovering insights about people and systems, and creating people-first solutions to issues. Emma’s work to shape strategy, influence culture and service delivery, and make bold moves is always anchored in purpose.

Emma gravitates toward tackling significant issues that compound disadvantage for people, particularly women. She has worked at the system, governance and strategy level to reduce barriers and influence services to help people thrive. She has been active in the areas of eliminating family violence, enabling financial stability, ensuring secure homes, and fostering good consumer outcomes.

She has a PhD in Psychology, and a MSc in Forensic Science. Emma was born and raised in Te Awakairangi Lower Hutt. Her father was a community GP and her mother a community volunteer. They sparked her belief in equity, service, and systems for strength.