Gretchen Parkes

Meet Gretchen

I’m Gretchen, Manager at Rural Directions, and I love being part of a business that makes a difference! I’m passionate about supporting our recruitment and HR team, building meaningful relationships, and helping our people and clients achieve great outcomes.

I’m focussed on finding practical solutions, exploring new opportunities, and turning good ideas into initiatives that create genuine value. I really enjoy the variety in my role, from business management and project oversight to contributing to Rural Directions’ continued growth and finding new ways to support our clients and our team. Working with clients at a senior leadership and executive level is where my recruitment skillset sits.

My Journey

People have been at the heart of my career from the beginning, from my early work in the health sector, to my time as a Facilitator with Rural Support Trust and through many years in recruitment.

I’ve been with Rural Directions since we started in 2005 and have been fortunate to work alongside a diverse range of clients in outsourced HR roles for clients, while also connecting great people with great employers. It’s been incredibly rewarding to grow alongside the business and be part of an industry with so much opportunity. I particularly enjoy working with clients at senior leadership and executive level, helping them find the right people to strengthen their businesses and achieve their goals.

Outside of Work

I’m lucky to have the best of both worlds, working in town and being actively involved in our sheep and beef farm on my days off. The farm is a big part of our family life, and I love that we all get to enjoy it together. My time with friends and family is precious to me, and I also love gardening, travelling and making the most of holidays.

Like many people, I’m always trying to find the right balance between staying fit, ticking off jobs, and remembering to slow down and make time for my own wellbeing!