Recently, Apex Advice celebrated one of our longest-serving team members, Christine Sharp, on her 19th work anniversary. Christine is a Relationship Specialist who first joined Apex Advice when the team had fewer than 20 people. Over the years, she’s worked across various roles, adapting to change and growing alongside the company.
Today, she’s a key part of our client support team, known for her empathy, experience, and dedication. To mark the milestone, we caught up with Christine to hear how she’s celebrating, reflect on her career highlights, and look back at the changes she’s embraced along the way.
How are you celebrating your anniversary, Christine?
“I went on annual leave. My husband and I headed off to Adelaide and then across to Tasmania. That was my celebratory gift to myself and to him!”
What would you say has been your biggest achievement at Apex Advice?
“My biggest achievement, I feel, is embracing technology and keeping up with the ever-evolving changes within the company. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been rewarding to stay current and adapt. One of the most interesting changes has been the introduction of artificial intelligence. It’s a frightening concept! But when I think back to when we only had pen, paper, and a landline, it’s incredible how far we’ve come, and how much more efficiently we can now support our clients.”
What are your goals for the future?
“As I’m fast approaching 70, I don’t really have any specific goals other than continuing to keep up with technology, maintaining my health, and ensuring our clients are in a good place too!”
Tell us a bit about your career journey before Apex Advice.
“I’ve always worked in the financial sector. When I left school back in the early seventies, I joined the National Bank. I progressed through their career path over a period of twenty years and eventually achieved a managerial appointment.
When the National Bank of New Zealand (NBNZ) merged with Countrywide Bank, I took voluntary redundancy. That’s when I joined Apex Advice. At the time, Apex Advice was a very small team with fewer than 20 people.
Over the years, the way we work has evolved massively, now with mobile phones and digital tools, clients can reach their advisers at a time that suits them, not just within fixed working hours. It’s made things faster, easier, and more efficient for everyone.”
How has Apex Advice changed since you joined?
“Over time, the company has grown immensely, forming a presence across the country with regional offices. We now have 8 offices in New Zealand, and we’ve diversified, now offering investments, KiwiSaver, and home loans. This diversification means nothing is constant, and we’re continually expanding our knowledge and skill sets.
I remember when I first started, we had huge amounts of paperwork! Client files were all colour-coded white slide-clip cardboard and stored on miles of Lundia shelving. Every month, we’d receive massive bundles of renewal and anniversary letters, all of which had to be filed manually. How times have changed!
One thing that’s remained consistent, though, is Apex Advice’s support. They’ve given me great flexibility, continue to contribute to my KiwiSaver even though I’m well over 65, and always encourage ongoing professional development, whether that’s through training programmes, regular Lunch and Learn sessions, or simply offering on-the-job support whenever I need it. Communication is strong too, with quarterly updates, internal staff newsletters, and the annual conference making sure we feel included and part of the wider Apex Advice family.
The one lesson I’ve learned through all this is to be prepared for the unexpected and to stay open to change.”
What motivates you in your role at Apex Advice?
“I love people. I enjoy hearing about their lives and learning from them. That’s what motivates me and keeps my enthusiasm high.
“I also take great pride in being an active listener and showing empathy when I engage with our clients. It’s so rewarding to see the benefits our clients receive during times of ill health, accidents, and unemployment. Those moments remind me how important the work we do is.”
If you could go back to when you first started at Apex Advice, what advice would you give yourself?
“I’d tell myself to have greater confidence in my capabilities instead of doubting myself. Looking back, I wish I had trusted my skills more.”
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
“My husband and I love to travel and experience different cultures and cuisine. I also really value the time we spend with our daughter, her husband, and our three beautiful grandkids.”
What do you think sets Apex Advice apart from other financial services companies?
“I think Apex Advice stands out because we’re a true ‘One Stop Shop’ for providing financial support and advice to clients. We’re passionate about helping our clients through a holistic approach, supporting them in all areas of their financial lives. I feel I play an important role in that by actively listening and offering empathy in every interaction, to help them get to their great place.”
Christine’s journey with Apex Advice over the past 19 years is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and passion for making a difference. We’re incredibly grateful for her contributions and wish her an amazing trip to Australia and many more years of success and happiness ahead!
