Hannah Middleton resigns from chief executive role at Whanganui & Partners

Hannah Middleton has stood down from her role as chief executive at Whanganui & Partners. Photo / Bevan Conley

Whanganui & Partners chief executive Hannah Middleton has resigned to focus on whānau and farming.

“This has not been an easy decision for me as I love my job and the great team that makes up Whanganui & Partners. However, with my young family and a shift out to Waverley to go farming, it is the best decision for my family at this time,” she said in a statement.

Middleton and her husband Angus welcomed their second daughter in March and moved to his family dairy farm in Waverley soon after.

She said she remained passionate about seeing the best outcomes for Whanganui and said her team would continue to make progress toward this goal.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Whanganui & Partners and look forward to staying connected.”

Middleton was appointed to the role in 2020 after a stint as the organisation’s strategic lead - international and capability, and strategic lead for education and youth.

She took over from Mark Ward who left in May 2020, after 16 months in the job.

W&P board chair Pahia Turia said although it was sad she was moving on, the board would continue to hold her in high esteem and respect her decision.

“We know it was a difficult choice for Hannah and that she will have given the decision full consideration,” Turia said.

“Ultimately, what is best for our children and loved ones should always be the path taken and I trust this is the case for Hannah right now,” he said.

He thanked Middleton for all she had done for the Economic Development Agency and the positive impact she had made in the role.

“I cannot overstate how much we have appreciated Hannah’s efforts, enthusiasm and capability.”

W&P is now undertaking a recruitment process.

Acting chief executive Jonathan Sykes will remain in the position until the new chief executive appointment is made.