Sophie Parker

Sophie has led a wide-ranging career within the Public Service, both in the UK and here in Aotearoa focusing on operational (emergency) management, people leadership, risk assessment and process improvement. Throughout her career in the military and various prison sites she has always had a people centred approach and implemented strategies that promote equality, enabling staff to bring their full selves to work and improve services for those we serve.

In her current role as Regional Senior Adviser Inclusion & Diversity, Sophie has re-established an Inclusion & Diversity Champion group made up of volunteers from the organisation that contributes to a wider reach of I&D strategies, while allowing DEI advocates to have a safe space to come together, reflect, and gain professional development in the DEI space.

Being a member of the Rainbow community herself, this has always been an area close to Sophie’s heart and she facilitates training across the northern region on Rainbow Diversity and Unconscious Bias & Privilege, helping to raise awareness and create safer spaces for all.

Outside of work, when she is not in the gym, Sophie likes to be out in nature as much as possible and spending precious time with her chosen family here in Aotearoa.