MVC 2025 Finalists Selection
Voting will close on 8th Decemeber 2025

Jo is not just a coach, she is the heartbeat of learning at Tegel New Plymouth. What she has built here didn’t come from a template or a system we purchased. It came from her vision, her creativity, and her relentless belief that every person deserves the chance to grow.When most people see constraints, no software, limited tools, competing priorities, Jo sees possibility. She has single-handedly shaped our learning approach by creating systems where none existed, designing processes that are now nationally referenced, and building capability structures that many larger organisations would love to have. Her ability to “sell the idea,” gain buy-in, and push through resistance speaks to her leadership maturity.What impresses me most is how she does all this while reporting to a remote manager, navigating a complex site environment, and still finding the time to build meaningful relationships across departments. She connects with people at every level, from operators on their first day to senior leaders and she earns their trust through consistency, humour, and genuine care.Her work with Competenz is remarkable. Jo ensures every learner’s work reflects not just competence but pride. Our most experienced assessor, Olga Duncan, has repeatedly commented on the exceptional standard of Tegel NP submissions, a direct reflection of Jo’s coaching, patience, and attention to detail.The impact she makes isn’t just technical; it’s human. Many of our team members had never pictured themselves gaining any formal qualification. Under Jo’s guidance, they are achieving NZQA standards, becoming role models for their whānau, and strengthening their future. That ripple effect is powerful and rare.Today, Tegel NP is recognised as one of the strongest training sites Competenz partners with, enrolling more learners than ever before. That momentum is Jo’s legacy.She lifts the bar, she lifts people, and she lifts our culture, all with a blend of expertise, grit, clarity, and heart. Tegel, our people, and Competenz have benefitted enormously from her drive and leadership.Jo truly embodies what it means to be a “Most Valuable Coach.”