Stephenson Mansell Group was proud to partner with the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) for the third year to present the AHRI Joe Fischer HR Leadership Scholarship 2025 at the AHRI Awards in Melbourne. This annual scholarship honours the legacy of our former partner, Joe Fischer, whose pioneering work in executive coaching continues to shape leadership development across Australia.
This year, the scholarship was presented by Virginia Mansell to Christine Dillon MAHRI, Recruitment and HR Project Lead at North and West Remote Health (NWRH) in Townsville. Christine’s submission offered a clear and practical view of the future of HR leadership. It also showed her strong commitment to building capability across the profession, particularly in regional and remote settings.
Christine’s perspective on the evolution of HR leadership
Christine has seen HR shift from a transactional function to a strategic, people-focused discipline. Early in her career, HR activity centred on process and compliance. Over time, however, decision making became more evidence based, more commercial and more connected to organisational goals. This shift has been especially important in regional environments, where workforce challenges often demand creative and flexible solutions.
She outlined four areas she believes will define the next stage of HR leadership:
- Human-centred technology integration – using digital platforms and AI-supported systems to streamline work and enhance employee experience.
- Workforce design for flexibility and inclusion – creating adaptable roles and career pathways that open opportunities for all employees.
- Cultural stewardship – building strong, values-led cultures that support connection across dispersed teams.
- Evidence-based strategic leadership – applying workforce analytics and data to inform major decisions.
Together, these areas highlight Christine’s view that HR leaders must be both business strategists and workforce futurists.
Christine’s vision for the future of the profession
Christine describes herself as both HR practitioner and advocate. She aims to lead practical improvements within her organisation while also promoting more equitable workforce solutions across regional Australia. In her submission, she gave several examples of how she is already contributing to this evolution. These included redesigning HR operating models, introducing new technology platforms and embedding workforce analytics into executive discussions.
She also expressed a strong commitment to developing early-career HR professionals. Christine often works with students and graduates, helping them understand their motivations and navigate the shift from study to work. This focus mirrors Joe Fischer’s belief that leadership potential grows when people feel supported, encouraged and understood.
Honouring Joe Fischer’s legacy
Joe was known for seeing potential in others and investing his time generously. He combined sharp thinking with curiosity, kindness and a deep respect for people. He encouraged leaders to trust themselves, quiet their inner critic and act with authenticity. Christine’s approach to modern HR leadership reflects these values. It is thoughtful, evidence based and grounded in genuine care for people.
Her perspective also aligns with insights from last year’s scholarship recipient, who emphasised the rising strategic influence of HR and the importance of having a voice at the leadership table. These themes continue to emerge across the profession.
You can read more about the 2024 recipient’s reflections here.
As part of the scholarship, Christine will receive registration for AHRI’s HR Certification Assessment, a delegate place at the AHRI National Convention & Exhibition, and a series of coaching sessions with an SMG coach to support her continued development. Through this opportunity, she will deepen her capability, broaden her influence and continue shaping HR leadership in ways that honour Joe’s legacy.
In conversation with Christine Dillon.
In this short post-award interview, Mehul Joshi speaks with Christine. They chat about what the scholarship means to her, the importance of understanding someone’s “why,” and how she plans to develop future HR leaders. Hear from Christine.
Frequently asked questions
What is the AHRI Joe Fischer HR Leadership Scholarship?
It is a joint initiative between Stephenson Mansell Group and AHRI that recognises emerging HR leaders who demonstrate strategic, human-centred and evidence-based approaches to modern HR leadership.
Who received the 2025 scholarship?
The 2025 recipient is Christine Dillon MAHRI, Recruitment and HR Project Lead at North and West Remote Health in Townsville.
What does the scholarship provide to the winner?
The scholarship includes registration for AHRI’s HR Certification Assessment, a delegate pass to the AHRI National Convention & Exhibition and coaching sessions with an SMG coach.
Why is the scholarship named after Joe Fischer?
It honours SMG’s former partner Joe Fischer, a pioneer of executive coaching known for unlocking potential in emerging leaders through human-centred and authentic leadership.
What vision did the 2025 recipient put forward?
Christine emphasised the need for HR to become more strategic, data-informed and human-centred, with a focus on technology integration, flexible workforce design and cultural leadership.
