Merepeka Raukawa-Tait: Not a job to 'wing it and see'

I sit on interview panels for senior executives being recruited locally and in other parts of the country.

You get real insight into what organisations expect of experienced, qualified leaders. They must have what it takes to run a business, big or small, in today's challenging business climate.

All three sectors, public, private and non-profit, are having to constantly scan the horizon to ensure their services and products remain relevant. It all boils down to "what are we doing, how well are we doing it and are we making a difference?".

From my observation, the executives who make the short list could all do the advertised job. What usually marks out one and sets him or her apart from the others is not only the edge in their experience but their managed approach to their career - a healthy combination of financial, interpersonal, and organisational skills.

It is their strong drive to succeed that makes one come out on top. These executives add value to a business from day one. There is no time to feel your way around for six to nine months at this level.

That's why I was surprised to see Dame Susan Devoy recently appointed to replace Joris de Bres as our Race Relations Commissioner. She is reported as saying she doesn't know much about race relations and this area of work.

Hers is a ministerial appointment. A Minister of the Crown goes out and canvasses, or shoulder taps, to see who might be interested in taking up an appointment. An entirely different process to that undertaken in an executive recruitment search where the position is advertised and those who believe they have the smarts for the position apply.

From time to time, shoulder tapping may occur as well. Normally, these executives would have knowledge of what the job entails and have the relevant networks and contacts to generate exposure for the business in industry and like organisations. They know suppliers and customers.

This kind of connectedness can save them from many business emergencies. I look for this "name and claim" relevant accomplishments when assisting in the hiring of a senior executive. Had this process been used to recruit our Race Relations Commissioner, and had I been on the interview panel, Dame Susan would not have made the first cut.

I have never hired anyone, at senior level, who hasn't had some qualifications relevant to the position and knew the business of the organisation. Race relations is no walk in the park and definitely not for the inexperienced.

I believe a Race Relations Commissioner must have a good understanding of the history of New Zealand.

Knowledge of events over the centuries that have played out and caused the introduction of legislation that disempowered and disenfranchised Maori. I would also expect a commissioner to know about racism and how it is still prevalent today in many central and local government departments and institutions. What the effects are on those exposed to it.

I would want to see knowledge of changing demographics and an awareness of the cultural and racial mix of new migrants to New Zealand. And more than a cursory understanding of race relations in other countries. In other words, someone who knows about race and culture and understands about prejudice, injustice, discrimination and bigotry.

In 2013, I want to be confident we have a Race Relations Commissioner who brings previous relevant and effective work experience, who has already demonstrated outspoken leadership, in areas that matter, matched with vigour, courage and personality.

I hope Justice Minister Judith Collins, who made the appointment, doesn't think having a gong will automatically convert Dame Susan into an informed and knowledgeable Race Relations Commissioner. That would be foolish thinking.

I don't know Dame Susan. I'm sure she is a competent business woman. But race relations in New Zealand require skilful handling.

We kid ourselves if we think all is well in this area. Dame Susan doesn't appear to have any related qualifications. By not knowing and understanding much about race relations, she could mess things up badly.

The job of Race Relations Commissioner is important because it also has a role as a major voice for the values and the human worth of all those who live in our country. This is not a position to "wing it and see". I remain unconvinced of the wisdom of Dame Susan's appointment.