1. 23 January 2014
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
Tarryn Burton began with DNA in April 2010 in a contract Account Director (AD) role. She was
employed to manage the roll out of the rebrand of BNZ (Bank of New Zealand). This was a highly
complex project with multiple streams of work. Tarryn had responsibility for managing the work
output as well as the timelines, budget and resources required to complete the project. Tarryn’s
successful handling of the project, and her fit within the DNA culture, led us to offer her a full time
role.
During her time at DNA Tarryn proved herself a highly capable, committed and productive team
member. She was promoted from AD to Client Services Director (CSD) after a year at the agency
and in this capacity was a member of the Senior Leadership Group of DNA. On every occasion,
when responsibilities and activities were added to Tarryns plate, she relished the challenge and
grew in both capability and confidence to meet it.
Tarryn was highly effective in the role of CSD; she is a natural leader, empathetic and consistent in
her management of people. Tarryn is a good judge of character, making her effective at recruitment
and training and development. Under Tarryn’s leadership there were improvements across staff
retention and the growth of capability within individuals and the client services team.
Tarryn was expert in the operational aspects of the studio, she was involved with designing and
upholding new systems and policies for many critical aspects of the agency, including project
management, billing, forecasting, recruitment and performance management. During Tarryn’s
tenure as CSD we saw measurable improvements across key financial measures, including
profitability of projects and clients, and accuracy across forecasting and billing.
Tarryn was involved in the business development process for DNA, from attending initial meetings
with clients, preparing RFP’s and proposals, costing and planning jobs and inducting clients into the
agency. Tarryn’s highly empathetic nature meant she excelled at building relationships with clients
and suppliers, Tarryn quickly gained the trust of everyone she interacted with.
Tarryn was a calm and warm person around the agency. She was resilient and unflappable and she
showed unceasing commitment to, and passion for, DNA. We were sorry to see Tarryn go, and
would employ her back at DNA without hesitation. We wish Tarryn all the very best in her new
adventures and know that she will succeed and thrive in anything she turns her hand to.
Donna Maxwell
Principal