Carissa Baker

Background

About Carissa Baker

I am an experienced Regulatory Leader skilled in building high-performing teams and successful operational practices, with broad experience across New Zealand and London-based regulatory agencies. Strategic and analytical, I excel at complex planning, setting inspirational goals, and influencing diverse, multi-disciplinary teams, earning respect from senior stakeholders. I have led transformational change to improve ways of working and to achieve regulatory outcomes. My expertise spans enforcement, regulatory intelligence, research, policy design, business education, and compliance. Known for my coaching and mentoring skills, I consistently deliver results, even in challenging circumstances. KEY SKILLS People Leadership: I have over 15 years of experience leading teams of varying sizes and professional backgrounds. I build committed teams and individuals through role clarity and regular reflection on, and celebration of, results. I am comfortable having courageous conversations and have developed high-performing teams through my skills and experience. Never complacent, I am always striving to be a better leader. Strategy and Operational Leadership: I am skilled in converting complex and ambiguous expectations into a clear and inspiring vision, then influencing the delivery of the work. I can assess a situation, identify what needs to be done, determine how and by whom, and follow through. I am known for innovative and bold thinking that challenges the status quo and elevates performance. Critical Thinking: I add value daily by probing to help others define problems, assess evidence, and identify the steps to resolution. I bring energy to challenges and support others in weighing up options and removing impediments. Known for exercising sound judgment, I know when to step into the details and when to escalate. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: I am appreciated for asking curious, probing questions that help shape and improve work outcomes. With a non-confrontational and naturally collaborative style, I navigate challenging topics skilfully. I am competent and assured with decision-makers and senior stakeholders, both in the public and private sector. Always well-prepared, I present sound evidence and reasoning to back my positions.