The Kiwiboss director shares how the COVID-19 pandemic transformed her business
For Kiwiboss director Julia Shallcrass, fair treatment and support for employees are significant factors in a productive, thriving workplace. The employment law specialist said that she was drawn to this field of the law because it was “about real people and real workplaces”.
In the first part of this interview, the 2024 Elite Woman tells NZ Lawyer about the “career-defining shift” she experienced under the COVID-19 pandemic, and what advice she’d give to fellow women in law.
My passion for advocacy was sparked early through high school debating. I was drawn to the idea of fairness and justice, and wanted to help people solve problems in practical, real-world ways.
Employment law attracted me because it’s about real people and real workplaces. When employees are supported and treated fairly, productivity and performance tend to increase.
Through my training company, KiwiBoss, I upskill professional advisors, HR professionals, and people managers to transform teams through better communication and legal compliance. What I enjoy most is empowering others to lead fairly, helping them create workplaces that are both productive and profitable. Participants in my courses learn how to lead with confidence, clarity, and a strong understanding of both their legal obligations and their people.
The shift during COVID-19 was career-defining. My training business transformed almost overnight — from travelling around the country delivering in-person conferences and workshops to running virtual training. While the transition had its challenges, it made training more accessible and cost-effective for clients. Virtual learning is also a more sustainable option, without compromising on interactivity and engagement.
One of my proudest moments was being named among NZ Lawyer’s Elite Women 2024. It was a real honour — especially because the path I’ve taken hasn’t been traditional. Building an employment law training business required innovation, adaptability, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
For women in law, my advice is to trust your expertise. Identify gaps and opportunities where your strengths can make an impact and meet a real need. I’m grateful for the support of the membership organisations who promote my courses, including HRNZ, EngineeringNZ and Business South — collaboration has been key to my growth.
Flexibility in how, when, and where we work isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. As a working mum, I’ve embraced flexibility in my own career, and I encourage others to do the same, whether that’s working remotely, setting your own hours, or carving out space for family and wellbeing. Flexibility is useful for creating more sustainable and inclusive workplaces.
I’d relive the day I ran my first public training course under the KiwiBoss brand. It was a leap into something new, and while nerve-wracking, it marked the beginning of a business that has since helped thousands of people managers create positive, productive, and legally compliant workplaces. Through KiwiBoss, I blend law, education, and leadership to train managers and HR professionals in practical, plain language. Instead of being the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, I see myself as a gatekeeper at the top — helping organisations prevent workplace issues before they arise.
