Stratford CEO on the move

Sue Davidson, the Chief Executive of Stratford District Council has announced that she is leaving the role to take on a new role as the Chief Operating Officer with New Plymouth District Council (NPDC).

Sue, who has a background in finance, local government, and strategic and financial consultancy in New Zealand and Australia, will start in the new role on 8 December.

NPDC Chief Executive Barbara McKerrow says Ms Davidson will be leading the delivery of all the Council's frontline services to the community, from major infrastructure such as roads and water to community services such as parks and libraries.

"The COO role is complex with responsibility for a large number of services, and Sue has the diverse experience that is necessary for the job. Her background in finance and in being Chief Executive at two previous councils will be of huge benefit to us," says Mrs McKerrow.

"Not only that, but Sue knows and loves Taranaki as much as we do."

Stratford Mayor Neil Volzke says: "Sue's departure will be a real loss to our council. She has brought a great deal of energy to the role of Chief Executive and we have progressed well under her guidance. The new position is a great career opportunity for Sue and I wish her all the very best."

Ms Davidson says: "My experience will be helpful in leading the operations team and ensuring we are delivering services efficiently, and are responsive to our customers.

"I am excited about this new position and looking forward to working with Barbara and the rest of the management team."

The role of COO was one of three senior management positions created during a restructuring of NPDC's executive leadership team. Of the other two, applications for the Chief Financial Officer role are being considered and the role of Group Manager Strategy was filled internally.

Mrs McKerrow says the realignment of the senior management roles will achieve more effective management of the Council's activities by grouping them in a way that is more closely aligned and integrated than previously.