Our Story
We have been working with leading Nelson businesses since 2010. In 2018 the company rebranded to 'Chalkbox', and at the same time expanded into Wellington as Business Development Company. Our long history of delivering training programmes to leading Nelson businesses gives you surety.
We operate with integrity and honesty and always strive to deliver to a high standard. We are rewarded when both your people and your business achieve their goals. Respecting people and the planet will always be a priority.
As Managing Director, these are my personal values too. I apply them to all aspects of my life.
Who we are
Chantell Bramley
Managing Director
Since graduating from the University of Canterbury with a Bachelor of Commerce in 2005, I’ve held marketing and communications positions in various industries in both New Zealand and London.
In London, I worked in the fast-paced West End. I managed all out-going communications to over 300 businesses and played an integral role in preparing retailers for the 2012 Olympic Games.
These skills, together with a knowledge of Nelson businesses, training programmes, and identifying employee’s needs have equipped me for my role at Chalkbox today.
Outside of work, I have a young family, and I love to travel, read and exercise.
Helena Merschdorf
Storytelling Marketing
Language is my passion, and I’ve been in the industry of helping people sharpen up their writing since 2011. In this time, I’ve helped hundreds of clients whip their message into shape, and write clear, compelling, and concise prose to connect with their readers.
I teach, mentor, and consult with entrepreneurs, companies, and institutions around the world, showing them how they can craft strategic words that work.
With Master’s degrees and professional experience in both science and linguistics, I understand the challenges faced by various industries in today’s fast-paced information society. My professional background allows me to combine the science and art of language, to help you simplify your message, create great content, and convert clients through story-driven marketing.
Louise Crowe
Resilience and Wellbeing
I am an experienced trainer, with over 20 years of expertise working within the financial, property and recruitment sectors. I’ve had the privilege of working within small family run businesses, through to global organisations within NZ, UK and Malaysia.
My passion is to help people achieve their personal goals through learning. In my sessions, participants will get an opportunity to learn practical, thought-provoking and meaningful practices which can be integrated into their day to day lives.
My breadth of knowledge ranges from 1:2:1 coaching to classroom and webinar training, on professional development, management and leadership skills.
My hobbies are travelling, sailing, reading, exercising, spending time with my family and friends and enjoying a good coffee. I volunteer my time to read to the aged, which is very rewarding.
Liz Crawshaw
Business Writing
After beginning my career in journalism in the UK, I worked as Senior Press Officer for the Mayor of London and was Head of London Communication and Head of Press and PR during London’s bid for the 2012 Olympic Games. I achieved two Public Relations Consultants Awards for ‘best campaign’ and ‘best team’ during this time. Before moving to New Zealand in 2013, I worked with UK’s Royal Mail for over six years.
As a communications strategist, I have particular specialities in change communications, integrating campaigns, working with the media and relating with stakeholders. I have a Masters in Creative Writing from the University of London and have worked as a sub-editor for publications including the Sydney Morning Herald.
Since settling in Nelson, I have found time to volunteer which I really enjoy. I also love riding horses and discovering new places.
Dr Pip Lynch
Computer Skills
I have spent over thirty years in teaching and research in New Zealand and Norwegian universities. I have a keen interest in computer technologies that make complex tasks easier and work more productive and enjoyable.
I thrive on developing and delivering effective teaching. In 2003, I received a National Tertiary Teaching Excellence Award in the category ‘excellence in innovation’. This demonstrated my commitment to learners’ needs and to creative problem solving to enhance learning. I always bring these aptitudes and enthusiasm to computer skills training.
For fun, I like to be on a mountain somewhere. Most of my adult leisure time has been spent enjoying kayaking, canoeing, tramping, caving and rock climbing in New Zealand and overseas. Now I enjoy exploring the top of the South Island on foot and bike.
Julie Varney
Leadership and Communication
I began my working life as an occupational therapist and it’s only now that I fully appreciate how well this equipped me. Building relationships, identifying problems and coming up with inventive solutions are great skills to have in any industry.
I am a certified practitioner of the HBDI whole brain thinking tool, hold a Commerce degree and have held management roles in the health and not-for-profit sectors. I’ve also lectured at Otago Polytechnic.
I’m the very proud mum of two beautiful, intelligent, strong young women but also enjoy the fridge being full again now that they have left home. I enjoy riding my mountain bike on the local forest trails followed by a dip in the sea on hot summer days. Pure luxury.
Jenny van Workum
Time Management
For more than 20 years I have worked in human resources, management and coaching roles in the public and private sectors in New Zealand and the UK. Before becoming HR Consultant and Career Strategist for my own business, I was HR Manager for NZ Fire Service, Prudential Assurance and Exterior Construction. I also have a Masters degree in Human Resources. I am passionate about developing and facilitating training.
I love to ski, read and travel. One day, I’d really like to visit the Borneo Orangutan Sanctuary. I unwind by hanging out with friends, but it is my children that I have the most laughs with.
Jacqui Ward
Managing Performance
I am an experienced HR practitioner and business owner who has worked extensively with senior and middle-managers, team leaders and staff in both public and private sectors in Wellington and Nelson.
I strive to decode HR and people management, helping managers to see the value in their greatest asset – their people. I hold a Commerce degree, an Arts degree and a Master of Business degree in Management from Otago University.
How we work
we listen
Your needs are important to us. We want to know what the issues are and your business story. We strive to understand exactly what skills you need to gain and why, and what success will look like.
we identify
Identifying your training needs is a vital part of our process. We set the purpose and training goals and ensure we meet your business vision, mission and goals and understand your culture. We capture everything discussed into a written proposal.
we deliver
Training is skills-based and focused on being relevant and useful. We aim to inspire and equip participants to be more effective and efficient in their work. Training is delivered to a high, professional standard. We check-in with participants before, during and after training.
we review
After training, we ask participants if they gained the business skills they need and the confidence to apply these skills to their work situations. We measure progress against challenges and objectives and identify any follow-up training. We deliver a full feedback report.
we follow up
We allow time for new skills to be implemented and practiced in the workplace. Then we follow-up to see how things are going post-training. We are on stand-by for next part of the journey.