Jaqquline Lawrie, 12 July, 2024
Craig Hunter has had an impressive career spanning nearly two decades in government, starting in an entry-level role at the Department of the Premier and Cabinet in Queensland. Throughout his career, he has held various government positions, always focused on supporting others and contributing to the broader Queensland community.
However, like many others in the public sector, he eventually felt unable to advance and take the next step in his career
Reflecting on his journey, Craig said, “Just pausing to reflect, it’s hard to believe, but I’m coming up on 20 years in the government sector,” he said.
“I began my journey in an entry-level position and then took some time to travel and work overseas.”
Upon returning to Australia from his two-year sabbatical in London, he re-entered the government sector, initially feeling directionless.
“When I returned to government work in Australia, I re-entered the same position, feeling a bit directionless,” he said.
Over the years, Craig moved through various roles, but it wasn’t until he joined the Public Sector Commission (PSC) that he found clarity about what he wanted to achieve and the impact he could make. It was here that Craig saw an opportunity to develop the skills needed to one day lead teams and help others reach their full potential.
“One element of my role [in the PSC] included acting as Queensland Jurisdictional Coordinator for the Public Sector Management Program (PSMP) and working closely with QUT,” he said.
“This experience gave me a glimpse into the world of PSMP, sparking a strong interest and leading me to quickly incorporate it into my professional development plan.”
Discovering QUT’s Public Sector Management Program
Working closely with QUT, a provider for Queensland’s PSMP, Craig learned the program's intricacies and observed firsthand how it developed individuals into leaders and helped them progress their careers in the public sector.
QUT's PSMP, developed in collaboration with the Australian Government, is tailored for mid-level managers in the public sector. This dynamic program blends work-based learning, workshops, and virtual sessions to shape individuals into effective leaders. It enhances management and leadership skills, boosts confidence, and expands professional networks beyond their current work environment. Participants also earn an internationally recognised Graduate Certificate in Business (Public Sector Management).
During this period, Craig realised that despite his extensive experience and achievements, he identified gaps in his own learning and knowledge and that it would be difficult to continue to develop and advance without formal tertiary education.
“Despite not having undertaken tertiary studies, many of my achievements had come from my personal drive, instinct, on-the-job learning, and observing successful behaviours in my leaders,” he said.
“Without any formal tertiary education, I felt I had advanced in my career as far as I could.
“Knowing that QUT’s PSMP didn’t require prior tertiary study was a huge motivation for me.
“I knew I needed to take the next step in my career, and QUT’s PSMP was the perfect opportunity to take that next step and develop knowledge I hadn’t acquired through work experience alone.”
For Craig, the timing of QUT’s PSMP couldn't have been better. With the PSC tasked with implementing the Queensland Government's new five-year strategy, called the ‘Even better public sector for Queensland strategy 2024–2028,’ Craig was given the opportunity to lead two key actions.
“The timing of QUT's PSMP couldn't have been more perfect for me,” he said.
“With the Even better public sector for Queensland strategy 2024–2028 generating a significant and exciting workload for the Public Sector Commission, I feel privileged to have the opportunity to be leading two of the key actions within it.”
Becoming a leader in the public sector
Having successfully completed QUT’s PSMP and advancing his career in the public sector, Craig attributes the program to preparing him for the next stages of his career. Reflecting on how it helped him grow his confidence and step into a leadership role, he said, “QUT's PSMP empowers you to grow both professionally and personally, shaping you into a stronger leader.”
“It delves into your psyche, unpacking your leadership identity, understanding why you do what you do, while recognising your skills, strengths and identifying areas for development,” he continued.
“I’ve left PSMP with a better understanding of myself as future leader, with desire to continue to grow and the confidence to succeed.”
Now working as a Principal Consultant in Leadership and Learning at the PSC, Craig said, “Having completed PSMP, I feel equipped to hit the ground running.”
“The program provided me with invaluable tools and foundational knowledge, enabling me to dive into my current responsibilities,” he continued.
“PSMP has truly enhanced my ability to take on these responsibilities with confidence.”
When asked what advice he would give others who are looking to advance their careers in the public sector, Craig shared, “I wish I had completed QUT’s PSMP a lot sooner.”
“But, as they say, there's always something standing in the way, always an excuse not to seize the opportunity,” he said.
“Life, family, work – they all play a part.
“Nevertheless, looking back, I wish I had made the decision sooner and I encourage others to look into it.”
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