Sandra Parker PSM on capability gaps, coaching regulatory leaders, and the question every regulator should ask – Part 2
The Modern Regulator PodcastShow Notes
In part two, the conversation shifts from the reform story to the bigger questions.
Sandra Parker PSM, former head of the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) and now a coach and facilitator for senior regulatory leaders through the Jeff Whalan Learning Group, talks about what she sees consistently in incoming regulatory leaders: the gaps that trip them up, the knowledge that nobody hands over at appointment, and what she'd fix if she had a magic wand.
Sandra also discusses the New Head of Regulator Pocket Guide, a practical resource Sandra helped develop through the Commonwealth Regulator Leadership Cohort. It was designed to give new heads of regulator the grounding the system doesn't otherwise provide. You can download it here.
This episode covers: The moment she found (or didn't find) her footing as a new regulator The most common capability gaps in incoming regulatory leaders: legislation, social licence, and the practical skills no handbook covers The case for mandatory induction, mentoring, and coaching at appointment, and why it should be in the minister's letter The Commonwealth Regulator Leadership Cohort and the heads of regulator pocket guide Enforcement philosophy: education vs compliance, and where the balance should sit The magic wand question and Sandra's answer, which isn't a policy reform Who shaped her thinking (hint: she went and sat in on other regulators' enforcement board meetings)
If you haven't listened to part one, start there.
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