Meet Brogan Bingham-Stevens: Leading with Resilience

Brogan Bingham-Stevens is no stranger to hard work. From her early days washing dishes in a bustling café to leading one of Timaru’s most iconic retail institutions, Ballantynes, her story is one of resilience, growth, and a deep-rooted passion for people and place.

Her journey didn’t follow a straight line and that’s what makes it so inspiring. “I wasn’t the academic standout,” she says. “School felt like a struggle. But the moment I started working, something clicked.” At fifteen, Brogan discovered something more valuable than grades – a natural ability to lead, connect, and anticipate needs. That first job gave her confidence, and she hasn’t looked back since.

Brogan’s early career was shaped by a variety of roles across hospitality, fitness, and customer service. Each taught her something new, sharpening her skills and work ethic. But it was a moment of quiet observation that changed everything. Sitting in a café on Stafford Street, she watched as well-dressed, confident women opened their retail stores for the day. “There was something magnetic about them,” she reflects. “I knew I wanted to be part of that world.”

Determined, she began applying for every retail role she could find. After multiple rejections, she sought feedback, trained herself online and refused to give up. Her persistence paid off when she landed her first retail leadership role at Max Fashions. That opportunity launched a career defined by purpose and progression. From there, she managed Fridge Freezer Icebox, Glassons, and Michael Hill Jeweller – building her reputation as a capable, empathetic leader.

Now, as Branch Manager at Ballantynes Timaru, Brogan brings a people-first approach to everything she does. “The success of your store is entirely dependent on your people,” she says. “You can have the best products, but without investing in your team, it won’t work.” For Brogan, leadership is about setting the tone – showing up early, staying late, and creating a workplace where people feel supported and valued.

Ballantynes has long been a pillar of the Timaru CBD and under Brogan’s leadership that legacy continues. Whether hosting events, supporting local fundraising or mentoring her team, she’s focused on strengthening community. “Timaru’s CBD only works if we support each other. We’re a community.”

When asked what she loves most about the CBD, she says “the character, the people and the potential. There’s so much history here and a sense of togetherness that you don’t find everywhere.”

Outside of work, Brogan is grounded by family life with her husband, daughter and two dogs. Whether it’s playing at Caroline Bay, building sandcastles, or walking the dogs in the rain, she embraces every moment. She’s also a passionate supporter of other local businesses, naming Soul & Co., Millie Rose, Stompz, Jewelcraft, Miss Timaru, Hello Cyril, Preen, and The Oxford among her favourites. “We’re spoilt for choice in the CBD,” she says. “It’s full of talented, passionate people.”

Brogan’s story proves that success isn’t always about following a set path, it’s about saying yes to opportunity, learning with each step and leading with heart. In her words, “We need each other.”