A belief in the power of strong communities has led Sandy to pursue a career as a trainer, consultant and coach in the community and not for profit sector. She has been working and volunteering in the NFP sector since she was a volunteer youth leader in Whangarei in the 1970’s. Prior to becoming part of LEAD, Sandy was one of the team delivering the Unitec Graduate Diploma in Not for Profit Management, a role she took on after her 10 years as the founding leader of the National Association for OSCAR.

Sandy works with boards and leaders from a wide range of organisations, both large and small, including those from the social services, faith-based, environment, arts, and migrant sectors. Knowing well the answer to every question is “it depends”, Sandy helps leaders and boards to navigate through the complexity that is community leadership.

Sandy has extensive experience working in the Pacific Islands and has a depth of experience working in cross cultural environments; and teaches other how to succeed when leading in cross cultural contexts.

Sandy is also co-chair of the Trust Board of Hui E! – New Zealand’s national organisation promoting, strengthening and connecting the Community Sector.

Sandy has been supporting collaborations between organisations for over six years in her role as a trainer and facilitator. This ranges from bringing groups with a common purpose to work together, facilitating community based collaborative projects, and leading organisation mergers.