Reflections: Following The Golden Milestone and a Lasting Legacy from New PPMA President Sandra Farquharson

Hello PPMA members and friends

As the dust now settles on our 2026 PPMA Annual Conference, I’ve been reflecting on more than just a successful and inspiring event this year; I’ve been thinking about what a landmark era this has really been for our Association. It was a wonderful two days of learning and deep thinking, and I want to share a huge thank you with everyone who made it happen.

A Note of Gratitude

An event like this is always a collective effort. We owe big thanks and heartfelt gratitude to:

The Organising Team: Our brilliant PPMA support teams and Board Members who worked hard behind the scenes to create such a high-impact learning environment for our Members.
Sponsors & Exhibitors: For their ongoing support for the space to develop our collective thinking and for showing us the innovations that help to drive our Sector forward.
Our Speakers & Facilitators: For sharing the insights that challenged our thinking and pushed our professional boundaries.
The Submissions, Shortlist of Winners & Winners: For sharing your exceptional performance in commitment to communities.
The Judges: For your time and care in reviewing the exceptional work submitted for the Excellence in People Management Awards.

A Golden Legacy: Pam Parkes
Pam Parkes’ Presidency has been truly historic. Leading us through the PPMA’s 50th Golden Anniversary, Pam has been exceptional in bridging our rich history with our future. From our “Gold” milestone celebrations to the vital work of Sector Reform, she led with one simple, unwavering mantra: “It’s all about the people.”

By championing this throughout our 50th year, Pam has left a lasting legacy. She has reminded us all that our profession is the heartbeat of public service, ensuring the Association enters its next half-century stronger and more focused than ever. We thank Pam for her wisdom, her advocacy, and her heart.

Looking Ahead: The Golden Square

As I step into the Presidency, I am honoured to build on this golden foundation. My vision for this next chapter is anchored in:

“THE GOLDEN SQUARE, DIGNITY, RESPECT, AND GOVERNANCE.”

My goal is to lead a new era of people governance in Public Services where every interaction is built on dignity and respect. By empowering agile leaders to secure statutory influence, we can provide the professional assurance needed for safe, civil, and inclusive organisations.

Together, we will ensure that HR and OD professionals are not just in the room, but the architects of a professional, empowered, proud and truly human Public Service workforce.