Leadership Interview with Aimee Macaskill

Today I am excited to bring to you an interview with an experienced and respected leader in ECE, Aimee Macaskill. Aimee is the manager of the University of Auckland’s early childhood centres, and was one of six selected nationwide to receive an ASG National Excellence in Teaching Award (NEiTA)in 2020.  Aimee oversees the day-to-day running of the University’s six childcare centres, including a Kohanga Reo and kohungahunga. An incredibly humble leader, Aimee is also a mother, foster parent, early childhood teacher and mentor to many. 

In this interview I ask Aimee to share how she came to be in the position she is today, and how she manages the complexity and responsibility of such a large and important role. 

Today I asked Aimee;

• What does she love about leading and  managing such a large organisation?
• What are her biggest challenges?
• How did she learn the ropes as a leader?
• Who has mentored and inspired Aimee?
• What are her limitations and how does she manage these?
• How can leaders create a positive culture in their ECE services that supports the growth and job satisfaction for all?

Aimee also shares two top pieces of advice for new or aspiring ECE leaders;

1. Have an open mind and come with a clean slate to a new leadership role.
2. Make sure you take care of yourself - self care is huge! Make sure that you work to create a capable and confident team that can function well without you always there.