Five minutes with Michelle Pongia
This month we sat down with our Auckland based People Partner - Michelle Pongia!
How would you describe the culture at PeopleEX?
We're values-led, people-first and purpose driven - a culture that genuinely walks its talk. We put our clients and people at the heart of everything we do, showing up for every challenge, together. We care deeply about doing great work - and doing it in ways that are adaptable, impactful and sustainable. We look out for each other - checking in, stepping in, and carving out space to connect, learn and grow. As a certified B Corp, we are proud to make a meaningful impact - not just for the organisations we support but for our communities and the planet. Our mantra ‘People for Better’ sums it up perfectly.
What are your predictions for the future of HR?
I see that the future of work and HR isnt’ a a far-off vision - it’s the next chapter in a shift that’s already unfolding:
Elevating what only humans can do: AI isn’t replacing people - it’s freeing us up to focus on where we add the most value; empathy, creativity, nuance and real world judgement. As automation handles the routine, our value lies in how we lead, connect, and adapt - working with AI to amplify what makes us human. To keep pace, organisations must invest in leadership that’s emotionally intelligent, strategically agile, and human-centred.
Redefining growth and careers: The traditional career ladder is already giving way to broader, more flexible careers paths - shaped by growth rather than hierarchy. People won’t stay in one lane; they’ll build new, transferable skills, move across roles, and expect continuous development. That means investing in micro-learning, cross-functional experiences, and personalised development pathways aligned with business needs and what people value. It also means shaping roles around skills - looking for capabilities that can flex, grow and deliver value beyond a single job.
Doing good, attracting great: Workplaces that care for people and the planet will be the ones that lead, and last. Purpose-led cultures and ethical practices will attract top talent - because more than ever people want to be part of something that aligns with who they are and what they care about.
Work, reimagined: This next chapter of work isn’t business as usual. It’s bold, human-centred, and built on purpose. Growth will be driven by teams that learn fast, pivot with confidence, and lead with heart. Successful leaders will balance what the business needs to perform with what people need to thrive. That’s where PeopleEX comes in - your people partners, helping leaders build purpose-driven, high-performing workplaces where people thrive, not just turn up.
What are your outside interests?
Most weekends you’ll find me outdoors with my partner, Brendon, and our son Armani - full of energy and wit - connecting with treasured family and friends. I come from a proudly sporty whānau, and when it comes to sport, any sideline, any code, I’m there (coffee in hand). I’m also a devoted dog mum to two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. An active relaxer at heart - baking is my happy place - with healthy(ish) birthday cakes always the crowd pleaser.
