Regional model refresh improves services in the regions

This structure allows regional leaders and their staff to make the most of their unique knowledge and expertise, and build and improve upon effective services for clients who need them most.

Benefits of the regional model

Operations Manager, South East, Kate Jones is relishing working under the structure, which has been operational for over a year, and enthusiastic about the benefits it is delivering for regional offices.

‘My role as Operations Manager (OM) within the structure comprises working collaboratively with the Regional Associate Directors (RAD) at catchment level to support our Dandenong and Frankston offices on Bunurong Country and Morwell and Bairnsdale offices on Gunaikurnai Country on operational matters.

‘I also provide strategic advice and evidence to ensure their offices are well supported on decisions with respect to service delivery, resourcing, facilities, budgets, stakeholder engagement and delivery of corporate priorities.

‘This involves working closely with the other OMs and RADs to ensure consistency in the development and implementation of operational policies and processes, which reflect the realities on the ground, and improve regional operations across the state.

‘I am thoroughly enjoying working with the other OMs and RADs, and have already learnt so much.

‘There is so much knowledge amongst the group. Additionally, there is a dedication to the regions to ensure their voices and the complexities of each of their offices is being heard and identified, and taken into consideration when operational policies and processes are developed and implemented.’

Appreciating the challenge of the role

Whilst enjoying her role, Kate concedes that it hasn’t been without its challenges.

‘It has taken time and effort to get to know managers and staff in each regional office, and understand the similarities and the differences in their needs, services and clients.

‘The OM role also works closely with many other parts of the organisation including Finance, People and Workplace Services, Built Environment and Digital Transformation and Technology, and we have been establishing these relationships.

‘Another challenge for myself in taking up the role was changing my focus from one region and team to multiple regions and teams, and embracing a statewide view.

‘Helping others within the organisation to understand the impact of their work on regional staff and clients whilst achieving greater consistency can be a complex task,’ said Kate.

Working hard for our regions

As for what she hopes to achieve in her challenging role, Kate is clear.

‘I’d like to continue to work collaboratively with the other OMs, RADs and various areas of the organisation to ensure regional management teams are well supported, and via data collection/analysis, planning and internal advocacy, build organisational understanding of the challenges they face.'

As for the benefits of pursuing a legal career in the regions, Kate believes the variety of work and great mentors are appealing factors.

‘I have seen firsthand the knowledge and experience one can obtain working in a regional office, and have observed so many law students begin as legal assistants, and flourish into very talented lawyers.

‘They gain great experience working across different jurisdictions and courts as well as being mentored and learning from some very intelligent and talented lawyers.’

Thriving in the position, Kate knows the role has been a great fit for her talents and development.

‘Having worked for the organisation for 20 years, much of it in the Dandenong office on Bunurong Country, I’m enjoying the role, and it’s allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and take on a stimulating challenge.’

More information

Read more at Thriving under our regional model refresh

Learn more about our regional offices