New CEO announced for Western Bay

A new chief executive officer has been announced for Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

John Holyoake will take the role of retiring chief executive officer Miriam Taris, appointed to the role in 2014.

John is currently chief executive of the Tamaki Regeneration Company - the largest urban regeneration project in New Zealand, a role he has held since 2015.

Previously, John has worked for Serco NZ, Housing NZ and Department of Corrections in senior leadership roles.

Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber says John’s appointment reflects Council’s anticipation of Central Government’s well-signalled national reforms of Three Waters and the Resource Management Act and the desire to be ready for the changes.

“The pace of change in local government is accelerating and we believe John is the right fit to lead us through this period, helping us take advantage of new opportunities and influence the direction of change where we can.

“John combines considerable experience in the public and the private sectors with leadership of large-scale projects and strong relationships with government, agencies, and large stakeholder groups.

“Council looks forward to working with John to ensure Council continues to build on its reputation for proactively working with, and getting to know, its communities and stakeholders across the region.”

Mayor Garry also thanks Miriam for her immense contribution to Council over the past 13-years, including seven years as chief executive.

He says during her time as chief executive officer Miriam has ensured Council has become a respected organisation that is seen by other agencies as a reliable partner that they can work with effectively.

“The Western Bay remains one of the fastest growing districts in New Zealand and Miriam has put Council operations in a strong position. She has done an outstanding job leading the organisation during a period that has seen the District grow and develop significantly.”

John says, “I’m looking forward to leading the Western Bay through this period of change and the opportunities that this will bring for the Council and the communities it serves.”

John will take up the role on 19 July 2021.

Background

John’s appointment follows a six month recruitment process led by the Chief Executive Review Committee chaired by Mayor Garry Webber. The formal appointment process was made by the full governing body of Council.