Building Elite Cross Functional Teams: Lessons from the Military, Springboks & HR Transformation 

What do the military, the Springboks, and HR tech projects have in common? High performance hinges on one thing: connection. As an Organisational Psychologist in the Military, an Assistant Liaison Officer for the Springboks during the 2011 Rugby World Cup, and a leader in HR transformation projects, I’ve seen what makes teams soar and what brings them undone. This session dives into the human side of high performance, drawing on surprising parallels across combat zones, locker rooms, and offices. You’ll walk away with practical tools to build alignment, boost collaboration, and shape teams that don’t just function, but thrive.

3 Key Learnings

1. Recognise why genuine connection is the foundation of high-performing teams
2. Explore the hidden tensions across seniority levels—and how to bridge them
3. Walk away with practical tools to foster connection and boost team performance

About Marty

Marty is an experienced organisational psychologist and people leader who brings a unique blend of military, consulting, and in-house HR expertise. He began his career as an officer and organisational psychologist in the Royal New Zealand Navy, serving for five years before joining SHL in 2013 as a Senior Consultant.
Over his time at SHL, Marty partnered with clients across public and private sectors—both in New Zealand and globally—to design and deliver impactful talent management strategies. After relocating back to New Zealand in 2016, he transitioned into a commercial leadership role before moving in-house as Head of Talent at the New Zealand Super Fund in 2018.

In 2023, Marty was seconded to lead an HR Technology Transformation project, overseeing the implementation of several Oracle HCM modules. He was appointed as Head of People Partnering in 2024. Marty has led local and global projects across the talent lifecycle, with particular expertise in leadership development, high potential programmes, and HR technology enablement. He is deeply passionate about Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and is committed to embedding DEI and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles into everyday HR practice.