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Gisborne District Council Chief Executive appointed to lead Tasman

Wednesday 25 January 2012, 8:56AM

By Gisborne District Council

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GISBORNE

Gisborne District Council chief executive Lindsay McKenzie has been appointed into the same position at Tasman District Council.

Mr McKenzie had applied to be reappointed for another five-year term running the Gisborne council but has now withdrawn his application. “I have since been offered the position with Tasman which I have accepted. I have enjoyed my time at Gisborne and genuinely believe that my contribution has significantly benefitted the organisation and the district. My partner Liz, son Hamish and I will miss our new friends, home and all our work colleagues especially.”

Mayor Meng Foon says he has enjoyed working with Lindsay. “He has been a bloody good chief executive to our Council and served our community well. We have tackled some big issues together – a new wastewater treatment plant, the Manders Road landfill proposal, erosion policies and two rounds of Ten Year Plans.

“He worked with Councillors to set the vision and mission for the organisation and provided leadership for staff. I love his honesty with me and the councillors. We have enjoyed having his family here in Gisborne. We are richer for his contribution and I wish him all the best in his new role in Tasman.”
“Applications for the position of Gisborne District Council Chief Executive closed yesterday (Monday 23 January) and we will be short listing for this position soon.”

Mr McKenzie has not resigned yet. “My contract requires I give three-months notice. I will continue to ensure that the needs of Gisborne District Council are met and that a smooth transition can occur before my last day at work is decided upon.”

“I had intended to stay and contest my current role but the recruitment process made me realise I needed to take control of my own future. The Tasman role came up in the meantime. It is a fabulous part of the world and it will be a privilege to live and work there. The Tasman District Council is facing its challenges which I am up to. This is an exciting opportunity for me.”

The Local Government Act requires that all local body chief executive positions must be appointed for a fixed term of five years with an optional extension of a further two years. To reappoint a chief executive the position must be advertised and a robust and transparent process undertaken. The position has been widely advertised by Sheffield recruitment consultants.