Senior leadership cuts proposed for Wellington City Council

Detailed summary

Job cuts are being considered in Wellington City Council’s senior leadership team to align with “council priorities” and reflect the possibility of regional amalgamation.

Wellington City Council CEO Matt Prosser said the consultation process is underway on proposed changes to the WCC leadership structure.

Job cuts are being considered in Wellington City Council’s senior leadership team to align with “council priorities” and reflect the possibility of regional amalgamation.

The Herald understands two executive leadership roles face the chop. Consultation is underway on the proposal.

The team consists of eight roles: chief executive officer Matt Prosser, chief strategy and finance officer Andrea Reeves, chief people and capability officer Meredith Blackler, chief economic and engagement officer Anna Calver, chief operating officer James Roberts, chief planning officer Liam Hodgetts, chief infrastructure officer Jenny Chetwynd and tātai heke Māori/ chief Māori officer Karepa Wall.

Prosser said the team was designed for a different period in the council’s history.

Updated priorities were laid out in new long-term plans by the mayor and elected members, and the council needs to focus on delivering them, Prosser said.

“On top of this, there still lies the possibility of amalgamation and the introduction of rates-capping measures.

“Against that backdrop, I do not believe that standing still is the right option for WCC,” said Prosser.

Amalgamation plans are on hold, after the Government paused local government reforms due to the election.

Opening of the article, excerpted from NZ Herald. To read the rest, open the article on the publisher's site.