Getting To Know: Sarah Tong

One of our newest members, Sarah is a Recruitment & HR specialist...

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m a people person & also in people business. Being the Recruitment & HR Consultant at Advanced Personnel for nearly 3 years, I played the role as the outsourced HR Consultant for my clients from various industries providing specialised Recruitment, HR Consulting and Employee Training services. Prior to this, I was studying Post Graduate in Business Management and have worked as Sr HR Manager for 18+ years at Fortune 500 companies such as Siemens, AMD, Beckton & Dickson etc.

How long have you lived in the North Harbour region?

Since 2017, absolutely loving it.

Any insights to your family / personal life?

On the weekend I am normally at the Campbells Bay Tennis Club, unless it has rained too much. Browns Bay which is only 10 minutes walk away from my house. My daughter Serena, my husband Sam & myself love to travel together and play sports together as a family.

How long have you been involved with the North Harbour Club?

I’m very new to the club. I’m always beside my daughter during her growth journey & I knew what does it mean to a young person when his/her achievements, talents and efforts been recognized and rewarded timely, the impact is lifelong. My HR, training and coaching background could be a great contribution in helping young people to grow, therefore I’m very passionate about NHC’s vision & mission.

How have you and your team navigated the challenges of the past 18 months and Covid-19?

Luckily my team is not that big. It’s like a extended family & we had lots of online meetings, phone calls to communicate & support each other. My manager has tried her best to take care of everyone. When there’s storm outside, the caring, supports, warmth & peace inside is what made us through this & still smiling.

Are there any business and/or lifestyle changes you made during lockdown that you are going to continue on with… or any that need to be left behind!?

Wifi inventor deserves a Nobel Price, especially during lockdown. I learnt some new dances (Jazz & folk) from Youtube and shall continue it. Make dumplings/buns and baking have to be left behind as it seems I only have time for it during lockdown.

Any exciting plans for your business in 2021 and beyond?

Continues expansion at our niche market which will be very exciting.

Which of our events are you particularly looking forward to this year?
Emerging Talent Excellence Awards Function & Winners Network Gathering.