New CE for Wairoa District Council

Steven May (PICTURED) has been appointed to replace former Wairoa CE Fergus Power, who resigned from the council earlier this year. PHOTO/FILE

After months of searching, a new chief executive has been appointed to Wairoa District Council.

Mayor Craig Little said he and councillors were pleased to announce Steven May had been appointed as the council's new CE.

He is expected to take up the role of Chief Executive at the end of January 2018.

Mr May is currently the Head of Operational Policy and Quality Improvement at Christchurch City Council and comes with a wealth of experience within central the local government sector, including, roles at Grey District Council, Waitaki District Council and Waikato District Council.

"I'm so pleased we have been able to secure the appointment of Mr May," Mr Little said.

"We have been through a very thorough and rigorous recruitment and appointments process and I'm looking forward to Steven joining us here in the Wairoa district."

"I want to thank Councillors and the Chair of the Maori Standing Committee Kiwa Hammond for their involvement in the selection of Steven as our new CEO."

"I also want to acknowledge our staff and in particular our interim CEO John Freeman for assisting in this transition phase whilst we undertook this process to find a new CEO."

"I'm excited about the skills and expertise that Steven will bring to Council and I know the Councillors and I are really looking forward to working with him.

Mr May said he was extremely humbled by this opportunity.

"The Wairoa district has so much potential and I believe this is a really exciting time for the district and I look forward to being part of that journey."