Rachael Bailey has been appointed interim Chief Executive of Napier City Council, following the resignation of Louise Miller to take up the Chief Executive role with Water Hawke’s Bay.
Currently Council’s Executive Director Strategy and Urban Development, Ms Bailey (pictured) will take up the interim role on 3 December.
The Council said Ms Bailey brings more than 30 years of public service experience, including leadership roles at the Department of Internal Affairs and Commerce Commission, following previous roles with New Zealand Police.
Her expertise spans intelligence, information and relationship management, organisational transformation and frontline service delivery.
As Napier’s Local Controller, she led the city’s emergency response during Cyclones Gabrielle and Vaianu. She also brings extensive experience in regional collaboration, supporting investment and growth and building trusted partnerships with mana whenua.
“Council’s decision was unanimous. We recognised that the best candidate was right here in front of us. Rachael brings proven leadership under pressure, the ability to bring people together and a clear understanding of what Napier needs to succeed,” said Mayor Richard McGrath.
“She cares deeply about Napier and the people who call it home. My fellow councillors and I thank her for stepping into this role, and we’re looking forward to working alongside her to deliver results our community can see.
“We’ve worked hard to strengthen Council’s financial position. We need to keep that discipline, make every dollar count and be clear about what we can afford. For our community, that means reliable services, well-maintained infrastructure and confidence that we’re making sound decisions for Napier’s future.”
Ms Bailey said leading the organisation was both an honour and an opportunity she was excited to take on.
“There’s a lot to be proud of here, and a lot to look forward to. Every day, our people bring skill, care and determination to work that makes a difference across Napier. It’s a privilege to lead that team,” she said.
“I want us to build on what’s working, tackle the challenges in front of us and keep turning our plans into results. Strong financial leadership will underpin that, alongside clear priorities and giving our people the support and confidence to do their best work.
“We’re heading into a significant period of change for local government. Leading through that means being prepared, keeping our people informed and involved, and staying focused on the services our community counts on.
“A council doesn’t grow a great city on its own. That takes strong partnerships with mana whenua, local businesses and our community, alongside our neighbours and regional partners.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been an advocate for investment and growth, bringing people together to help turn opportunities into real outcomes.
“I want us to build relationships where we can have honest conversations, work through challenges and make things happen together for Napier.”
Mayor McGrath also thanked outgoing Chief Executive, Louise Miller.
“Louise has helped put Council on a stronger footing, and I thank her for the energy and commitment she has brought to Napier. Rachael will carry that work forward with her own experience, perspective and ambition for our city,” he said.
