Fairul Ghani

Personal growth and skills developed from studying Public Policy, hard work and networking have led Fairul to a career as a Commercial Procurement Specialist.

After high school, I did not really know what I wanted to focus on and had not considered a career path. My friends were pursuing degrees, and I didn't want to be left behind. It was after I had gained my BA majoring in Sociology and had worked in the not-for-profit sector for several years that I discovered a desire to make a positive difference to others. In 2006, I attended a meeting with several government officials, and I distinctly recall thinking, "Oh boy, these people are so intelligent and passionate about making a difference to the lives of New Zealanders. I'd like to be just like them and as an immigrant, contribute and give back to a society that has given me so much." I re-enrolled at university and pursued a degree in Public Policy.

Studying Public Policy taught me to think laterally on current economic and social affairs impacting on our society, not just accepting the front-page news headlines. It also challenged me to consider the complex issues faced by the New Zealand government. Beyond the theories, my learning journey also allowed me to connect and build relationships with other aspiring public servants. Many of us have since established a career in Wellington and remain firm friends, often a source of insight into cross-government agency initiatives and support for personal development.

Key skills I gained during my studies included thinking critically and laterally, being organised, developing grit and determination, and appraising complex issues across multiple and diverse perspectives. These skills are vital for my ability to provide a quality service and work ethic for the Ministry and for making my (small) contribution towards a positive impact to our society.

During my Honours year studying Public Policy, the School of Government launched a one-month internship programme for postgraduate students. I was fortunate to enrol in this programme and achieve a placement at the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) during a period when the number of public servants was being capped and there was intense competition for graduate positions within government organisations. This internship opportunity turned into fixed-term employment, and I eventually transitioned into the permanent staff at MSD as a Programme Advisor. I also went on the complete a Master of Public Management part time with support and encouragement from my managers at MSD.

I cannot emphasise enough the importance to my career of working hard, taking initiatives, building relationships and networking with colleagues. The traits are highly valued by employers. I also wouldn't have succeeded in my career without the support and encouragement of my friends and experienced colleagues who have acted as my teachers and mentors along the way. Having these attributes and and support from others have helped me secure a permanent full-time role and subsequent roles at ACC, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). I then returned to MSD to lead various strategic procurement and commercial activities for the Ministry.

Procurement in Government is an interesting career pathway. On the surface, it might not appear to be as exciting as policy development, but it has enabled me to make direct positive impact on others and has been a rewarding journey for me personally. I currently lead the Ministry's acquisition of key information technology (IT) platform that enables the Ministry to provide quality services to our clients, who receive benefit and support from the government. During the Covid-19 lockdown, I was supporting the Government's response and working with suppliers to purchase hand sanitiser products. If anything, Covid-19 has helped raise the profile and importance of procurement and supply-chain management within the public sector. It also highlights the role procurement plays in improving peoples' lives.