New Senior Manager Appointed at NPDC

A new General Manager has been appointed to lead the Customer Services Group at New Plymouth District Council.

Cathy Thurston, the council’s current Manager Organisational Development, will take on the role from Monday 25 August.

“This is a great chance to be involved in delivering some of the district’s most-loved services – I’m very much looking forward to the role,” says Ms Thurston.

Chief Executive Barbara McKerrow says: “Cathy has had long experience in human resources management and in helping large organisations deliver on their customer service goals.

“Her role will encompass some of our most high-profile services and facilities, including Puke Ariki, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, major events such as the TSB Bank Festival of Lights, the Todd Energy Aquatic Centre, regulatory services and community development projects that work closely with local organisations.

“Cathy’s skills and experience will be a great addition to this part of the council’s operations.”

The General Manager position was made vacant when Ms McKerrow was appointed Chief Executive in April. There were six short-listed applicants for the position, three of whom were from outside the council.

Ms Thurston has worked in human resources for more than 20 years with NPDC, Taranaki Healthcare Ltd and as a consultant in a variety of public and private sector organisations.