Gareth Green takes reins as new CEO
Getting the small things done right and giving communities more ownership over their town is on the agenda for newly appointed chief executive Gareth Green.
Green took over the role on an interim basis after Rob Williams resigned in May, but was promoted to the top spot on Tuesday by Taupo District Councillors.
‘‘I think it’s quite humbling to be selected for the job,’’ Green said. ’’Especially being appointed from within.’’
Being appointed just before an election is a challenging time for any new chief executive but Green said it is an exciting time for council.
‘‘It is a challenge in you don’t know who you will be working with,’’ he said. ‘‘But it is exciting as it will be a fresh start for council.
Green brings 11 years experience at council, having joined their ranks in 2005 as the principal planner for resource consents. Before then he had worked in Whangarei District Council, the Department of Conservation and New Plymouth District Council. He said ensuring the little things are done right is a top priority for council.
‘‘I’ve always thought if you do the small things right then the big things will take care of themselves,’’ he said.
‘‘Council is in a good place at the moment so it will be about building on the work that has already been done.’’ Green is also eager to give more control to the community when it comes to their own town.
‘‘I know that sound odd as council is often the rule enforcer but it’s good for the community to take ownership,’’ he said. ’’It’s about removing some of the red tape to make things happen.’’
He used the lights in Taupo town as an example of community ownership.
‘‘Towncentre Taupo’s lights in town are a good example of this, and the community really appreciates them as we saw when they were vandalised.’’
Mayor David Trewavas believes Green’s selection is testament to his professional work ethic.
‘‘I know Gareth will continue to lead the organisation towards many great things in the future,’’ he said.
Green said he is looking forward to taking on his new role and was grateful for the support of council colleagues.