CEDA hot seat made permanent
The Central Economic Development Agency’s new chief executive Linda Stewart has an advantage over many fledgling bosses – she’s already been doing the job for months.
Stewart stepped in as acting chief executive in March after the swift departure of the agency’s first boss, Will Samuel.
Samuel resigned in December after only five months in the job to spend more time with his terminally-ill father, but stayed at the agency as long as he could to help ease the transition.
Agency chairman Malcolm Bailey said the board was delighted to permanently appoint Stewart.
Bailey said Stewart proved to be best candidate for the top spot and would continue the great work she had been doing at the agency’s helm.
Manawatu mayor Helen Worboys said Stewart had created strong relationships with key leaders throughout the region in her short time at the agency’s helm.
‘‘Linda stepped up to the role as acting CEO and has brought a fresh and engaging approach to growing our economy. I look forward to working with Linda and the rest of the team at CEDA to make a difference in our towns and the city.’’
Stewart joined the agency last year as its business development manager, a role she has juggled with her responsibilities as the acting chief executive.
‘‘I look forward to working with Linda and the rest of the team at CEDA to make a difference in our towns and the city.’’ Helen Worboys, Manawatu District mayor