Mark Fraser’s Future Auckland Leaders experience

I was part of the second cohort of the Future Auckland Leaders Programme, from 2006 – 2007, back when I was a Development Manager at McConnell Property.  The programme was a fascinating insight into the city and the mechanics of it; how it worked, what made it tick, the challenges and issues it faced.  In parallel to this course content was a focus on leadership, what is it, how do you approach it as a goal and how does it contribute to the success of the city?

One of my biggest takeaways from the programme was the realisation that leadership is a discipline, not a position or title.  And that it’s something you can prepare for, train for and aim towards.  Starting with the Future Auckland Leaders programme, I set out to develop leadership as a specific skill set, in addition to the technical property competencies of any given role and, as my career progressed, my focus on leadership as an outcome increased.  In my current role as General Manager of Urban Development and Delivery at Kāinga Ora, I lead a team tasked with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve the supply, quality and affordability of homes, and the resilience and liveability of our communities.  I bring with me the insights and learnings from the Future Auckland Leaders Programme and the understanding of the contribution I can make to Tāmaki Makaurau, both for the people and the place that is this beautiful city I’m lucky enough to call home.