Innovation is a critical component in leadership, says Matt, "a key tenet I have brought to all of my roles is to have a continous improvement philosophy ... looking for opportunities where we can streamline processes, customer service and reduce waste". This, he says, can lead to savings of time, money or both.
On the subject of amalgamation, Matt says he doesn't see any significant benefits for Stratford at present, preferring to see a continuation of, and expansion of, the significant amount of co-operation and collaboration between the Taranaki region's councils already in place, including shared services agreements and commercial arrangements.
Mayor Neil Volzke says he is pleased to have Matt join council, "Matt has a strong background in information management, strategic planning and council operations, which will serve us well." He adds that councillors, who were all involved in the selection process, were "delighted to appoint someone of Matt's calibre to the position".
Matt is equally complimentary of the staff and councillors he has met. "They are dedicated, civic minded and committed to doing the best they can for their local community."
