Polytech executive resigns

The chief executive of the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology has resigned after 11 years in the role.

Tony Gray announced his resignation yesterday saying it was the right time to look for different challenges. He has been named the chief executive of the Ara Institute of Canterbury, based in Christchurch.

‘‘I think NMIT is a great place and I think it’s a jewel in the top of the south’s crown,’’ Gray said.

‘‘There is a great team here but I’m equally excited to take up this new role.’’

Gray helped NMIT position itself as a key educator for industries in the region from aquaculture, viticulture, aviation and maritime training.

He took up the position in 2006, moving from New Plymouth with his family after being the head of the International Hotel Management School there. He was previously the head of a further education college in Leicestershire, England.

NMIT chair Daryl Wehner said it was ‘‘bitter sweet’’ to receive Gray’s resignation.

‘‘I am really pleased for Tony. Ara have made a great decision and he will do extremely well but on the other side of the coin we are disappointed as he has done very well for NMIT.’’

Wehner said a result of Gray’s leadership, NMIT had exceeded many government quality and service targets across all business areas. Gray had a special commitment to the development of an environment which placed the student at the centre of the ‘‘learning journey’’, Wehner said.

NMIT employs 500 staff and has about 8000 current student enrolments throughout five campuses – Nelson, Richmond, Blenheim, Woodbourne and Auckland.

Gray takes up his new role in September.

He replaces Kay Giles, the current chief executive of Ara, who is retiring.

The acting Ara council chair Janie Annear said Gray brought a ‘‘wealth of experience’’ in the tertiary education sector.

‘‘The Ara council is confident that his experience will ensure Ara remains one of New Zealand’s highest performing tertiary institutes.’’

The recruitment process for the new NMIT chief executive would commence shortly.