Since coming on board the sector has faced some of its most challenging times; in terms of changing demographics, skills shortages, technological advances, political uncertainty and increased citizen expectations. Parkes has embraced these challenges and turned them into opportunities. This has included re-defining the council’s purpose, a re-focus on organisational design and structure, and encouraging a learning culture.
There has also been investment in a people strategy that prioritises what is needed from the workforce today. In 2018 Parkes turned her attention to adaptive and systemic leadership, creating a place where trust and collaboration thrive.