Seventeen years ago, on a crisp July morning, Jennie Parker walked through the doors of New Zealand Skills and Education College (NZSE) as a relationship manager and student support advisor. Back then, the college was a small, tight-knit community nestled within a single New Lynn, Auckland campus—the “heart and soul” of NZSE, as Jennie fondly recalls. Today, Jennie serves as the People and Capability Director for New Zealand Skills & Education Group (NZSEG). On the Executive Leadership Team, Jennie helps oversee a dynamic, multicultural team of 150.
“I started at NZSE in 2007, helping students with pastoral care and job placements,” Jennie shares. “Even back then, the heart of NZSE was its commitment to empowering learners, and that commitment has only grown stronger.”
Jennie’s role evolved alongside the organisation. From NZSE’s humble beginnings with four staff and 12 students, NZSE expanded into NZSEG, with the acquisition of Seafield School of English and Edvance to meet the growing needs of diverse learners and industries. “What attracted me to Brijesh’s vision was his steadfast commitment to serving the needs of the community,” Jennie explains. This commitment is embodied in NZSE’s mission: transforming lives through the power of learning.
“Our NZSEG values—creativity, achievement, respect, and empowerment—shape everything we do, from fostering learner success to building a strong, inclusive workplace,” Jennie says. “Seeing hundreds of students achieve their goals at graduation is not just their success, but ours as a team.”
With staff from 28 nationalities and a vibrant culture that celebrates diversity, NZSEG embodies its community spirit both inside and outside the classroom. From small class sizes, workplace learning, and tailored learner support to an emphasis on professional development for staff, NZSEG has created a place where everyone can grow, thrive, and achieve more.
As Jennie puts it: “We’re a dynamic organisation, always responsive to the needs of our learners, staff, and industry. Whether you’re here to study or work, NZSEG is a place where your potential can truly soar.”