Wellington City Council has appointed experienced British local government leader, Matt Prosser, as its new chief executive.
Mr Prosser (pictured) has three decades of experience working in local government, and is currently chief executive of Dorset Council, a large unitary authority in southwest England serving 380,000 residents with just under 5000 employees and 82 elected members.
Mr Prosser will take over the role from Barbara McKerrow in the first quarter of 2025 with a start date yet to be confirmed.
Wellington Mayor, Tory Whanau says there was significant global and national interest in the role from highly qualified senior leaders, with Mr Prosser selected due to his local government experience, focus on people and community outcomes, commitment to innovation and transformation, and proven leadership in developing teams.
“Wellington is a city undergoing a period of change and revitalisation, upgrading our water infrastructure, making buildings and public spaces more attractive and resilient, taking climate action and evolving our transport network,” said the Mayor.
“This is being delivered by a Council committed to providing the services our community needs and wants within a challenging economic climate.
“To deliver, we need a high-performing organisation driven by an exceptional leader. I’m really pleased Matt is coming on board to lead our Council through this period of transition. Whilst new to Wellington, his international experience will be of significant benefit. He’s a strong relationship builder, with decades of involvement in local government and a commitment to service.
“I look forward to working with him and introducing him to all that Pōneke has to offer,” Mayor Whanau says.
Mr Prosser says he is looking forward to the move and the challenges ahead.
“I love New Zealand and have always thoroughly enjoyed my visits to Wellington. My wife and I are looking forward to becoming Wellingtonians and walking the lovely bush trails with our golden retriever, enjoying the excellent cafes and hospitality, and cheering on the Hurricanes and Poua,” he said.
“Wellington is just the kind of city we love, full of innovative, creative people, wonderful nature and a rich history.
“Local government is a complex environment with multiple stakeholders, competing interests and funding challenges, but also so much opportunity to contribute in a positive way to the wellbeing of our communities and environment. I’m looking forward to understanding how best to serve Wellington, working alongside the talented team at Wellington City Council.”
Ms McKerrow will finish her five-year term in March next year.
