New Council Chief Executive appointed

Craig Hobbs has been appointed Chief Executive of the South Waikato District Council, following the recent resignation of David Hall.

Mr Hobbs comes to Council from his role as Regional General Manager at The Radio Network based in Hamilton; and has previously been the Chief Executive of the Voyager NZ Maritime Museum and Paralympics NZ. In addition he has significant Director Experience sitting on both not for profit and commercial boards.

Mayor Neil Sinclair is pleased at the appointment, "Mr Hobbs has a wealth of experience in organisational leadership and we are looking forward to having him on board to lead Council through the coming years."

Council had to go out to market for the role of the Chief Executive after Mr Hall had been with Council for seven years. The selection process followed was very robust and was facilitated by the executive recruitment company Sheffield. 47 applications were received and Sheffield interviewed nine applicants, they were shortlisted to five and then four were interviewed a second time by full Council."

Mr Hobbs is excited about making the best of the opportunities and challenges that are facing the South Waikato now and into the future.

"I can't wait to take up the role, work with the District Council team and get out and meet the various communities in the South Waikato. This is a very special part of New Zealand and I am excited by the opportunity to play a positive part in lifting the profile of the region, supporting and stimulating economic growth and delivering value back to the rate payers of the South Waikato District." said Mr Hobbs.

Mr Hobbs starts in his new role at Council on the 20th May.

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