Recently Mary Richrdson sent this out to staff…
This message is to let you know that I will be concluding my role as Chief Executive at Christchurch City Council on 1 May.
It has been a privilege to work with you and to serve our community. When I accepted the Chief Executive role, it was for a defined period and with a clear purpose: to work alongside other staff to strengthen our organisation, lift resident satisfaction, delivery of service levels, and staff engagement and wellbeing. Over the past two and a half years, all these areas have seen remarkable, measurable improvement.
This progress has been made possible by the commitment, professionalism, and resilience of people right across the Council.
The organisation is now in a strong position and focused on the upcoming Annual Plan and the development of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan. This next phase of planning and delivery is one that will benefit from continuity of leadership over the full period.
I would like to acknowledge and thank Council staff for their professionalism and dedication; the Mayor and Councillors for their leadership and commitment to the city; and our partners for your collaboration, insight, and support.
My final date of employment was originally set for 30 June; however, taking accrued leave into account, I will finish on 1 May. Recruitment for the next Chief Executive is underway, and an Acting Chief Executive will be appointed for the transition.
As residents of Christchurch, we have much to thank Mary Richardson and our elected reps for stabilizing the Council over the last couple of years. The organization became quite unfocused, and Mary has led her 3000 staff brilliantly to address this, and I’m sure you would all join me in wishing her a happy retirement.
Here’s an example of a successful project completed in Mary’s time. Te Kaha Stadium delivered ahead of time and within budget.
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