Ko Tararua te maunga
Ko Manawatū te awa
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Ngāti Raukawa ki te tonga me Ngāti Kahungunu te iwi
Ko Ngāti Tūranga, Ngāti Kapūmanawawhiti, Ngāti Hinemanu ngā hapū
Ko Paranui, Tainui, Winiata ngā marae
Ko Irene Wakefield toku ingoa

I’m a strategist, communicator, and trusted partner for kaupapa that carry weight. I work alongside boards, leaders, and organisations navigating complexity, collaboration, and meaningful change. With a background in strategic delivery, communications, and systems-thinking, I bring structure to ambiguity and calm to pressure. My work spans both the boardroom and the community — guiding high-trust projects forward while protecting the essence of what matters most.

At the heart of my work is clarity — in relationships, in direction, and in decision-making. I create alignment where there’s tension, language where there’s uncertainty, and momentum where there’s risk of stall. Whether I’m drafting a sensitive letter, navigating stakeholder dynamics, or anchoring a delivery plan, I hold the bigger picture while honouring the people within it.

I lead with strategy and story — because communication isn’t a task, it’s a tool for alignment, cohesion, and meaningful engagement. From internal briefings and stakeholder updates to narrative development and community-facing communications, I craft language that builds trust, reflects intention, and moves kaupapa forward with purpose.

I work in the spaces between — where systems meet people, where strategy needs story, and where complexity asks for care. My approach is rhythm-led and relational. I read the room, tune into what’s needed, and move in ways that keep pace without compromising purpose.

This isn’t just work for me — it’s a way of being. I’ve built a reputation for presence under pressure, for leading with both strength and subtlety, and for holding what others often miss: the tone, the trust, and the truth of the work. Strategic. Grounded. Story-led. And always aligned with the deeper purpose beneath the plan. 

For the work that matters, and the moments that require more — I’m ready when you are.