Rt Hon Jenny Shipley
Jenny Shipley became New Zealand’s first woman Prime Minister in 1997 after a rapid rise through the ranks in New Zealand politics. As PM she guided the country through the controversial first MMP Parliament and through the demands of the Asian economic crisis, returning New Zealand to impressive economic growth of 4%+ which laid the ground work for New Zealand’s subsequent strong economic performance.
She chaired a highly successful APEC in New Zealand in 1999, advancing the free trade agenda, promoting economic cooperation and advancing positive regional relationships. She also played a key role in achieving the East Timor solution which saw democracy restored and a new independent Government formed.
Eleven consecutive years of the fifteen years of her parliamentary career saw her in the demanding roles, not only of Prime Minister, but Leader of the Opposition and in senior ministerial positions, where she led other major reform in New Zealand Welfare and Health, in ACC and Transport Services. She promoted major legislation that advanced the status of women and minority groups and brought new accountability to the state sector. She oversaw privatisation of several SOEs, which allowed many New Zealanders to become shareholders. She strengthened New Zealand's ties with major trading partners and regional powers and strongly promoted free trade agreements in the region.
In these roles she has been known for her conviction and determination to take New Zealand forward, for the passion she brought to politics and her willingness to promote new ideas whether popular or controversial.
At the age of 50 she retired from politics in order to expand her own business interests – consulting, speaking and providing strategic and project focused public and private sector work in New Zealand and abroad.
Ms Shipley holds various directorships locally and internationally including being chairperson of Mainzeal NZ, director of Momentum and member of the advisory board of the city of Rotterdam (aiming at enhancing economic development).
Ms Shipley is passionate about enhancing leadership in companies and helping New Zealand companies go global. She is a regular speaker in New Zealand and overseas, especially in Hong Kong, China and Dubai. She can speak about anything from work-life balance to strategies in taking your business global. She is a highly sought after, very successful speaker.
Prime Minister of New Zealand 1997 – 1999
Leader of the Opposition 1999 – 2001
MP for Rakaia in New Zealand Parliament 1987 – 2002
Opposition Spokesperson – Trade & State Services 2001 – 2002
Minister of State Services 1996 – 1997
Minister of State Owned Enterprises 1996 – 1997
Minister of Accident Compensation 1996 – 1997
Minister of Transport 1996 – 1997
Minister Responsible for Radio NZ 1996 – 1997
Minister of Health 1993 – 1996
Minister of Social Welfare 1990 – 1993
Minister for Women’s Affairs 1990 – 1996
Chair of APEC 1999
Testimonials
Over and above [expectations]. They felt informed and I think that they felt they had got to know one of NZ's most powerful women. They loved her.—IIR
A warm, friendly, natural speaker who had researched our sector well and spoke form the heart. This was the last session of a four day conference and the audience was captivated. Gave them encouragement, motivated them and endorsed the work they do. A great boost for their confidence and self esteem. A perfect end to our wonderful conference.—Early Childhood Council
It exceeded [expectations]. Authoritative and absorbing. Everyone was greatly impressed by Jenny - she's a terrific person.—NZ Leather & Shoe Research Association
Jenny's level of professionalism, her delivery and content where impecable. She researched our industry and tailored her presentation to be spot on. Jenny's presentation was thought provoking, challenging and full of future opportunities. Her insight into New Zealand now and future trends is very powerful and added great value to our conference.—Barfoot and Thompson
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