Who got that job?

By STEVE HART

Chief executive, Kensington Swan

Name: Chris Heilbronn

Age: 52

EXPERIENCE

* 2000 - 2003 GM planning and strategy, Auckland District Health Board

* 1995 - 2003 Consultant

* 1994 - 1995 CEO/CFO New Zealand Land

Q. What was your previous job?

A. I was general manager planning and strategy for Auckland District Health Board and prior to that managed a number of regional and national health sector projects as an independent consultant.

Q. Why did you apply for your new job?

A. Kensington Swan is a legal firm with the scope and ability to grow. This role provides me with the opportunity to combine my professional services, knowledge and business skills to help make that happen.

Q. What are the major challenges ahead of you?

A. Marketplace competition in the legal services field is fierce and client expectations are high. I will work with the team to ensure that sustainable growth is achieved and that business risks are identified and managed.

Q. What does being chief executive mean to you?

A. The opportunity to lead a team of committed professionals and blend my commercial skills with their professional competencies. The CEO has the role of maintaining a view of the broader picture and ensuring the team remains focused on the key tasks and goals ahead.

Q. What else might you have done?

A. Before leaving university in the mid-1970s, I planned to follow my specialisation in marketing but chose to complete accounting studies as marketing jobs were scarce in the wake of the 1974 stock market crash. Since then I have been fortunate to experience most of the roles I wanted and to work with good people. I enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone to meet new challenges.

Q. Do you have any community involvements?

A. I spent 10 years as a member of the Control Board of the Auckland Football Association (soccer). Since that time I have been a regular supporter for school fundraising and PTA activities.

Q. What do you do when you are not at work?

A. I enjoy time with my family and friends, surfing, walking, fishing, music, reading, watching motor sports, DIY and motor cycling. I have never quite grown up and really enjoy being a bit of a surfie and a petrol head. I can't wait to see the V8 supercars racing around town.