Chief executive appointment announced

Published on 12 January 2022

David Langford

Whanganui District Council has appointed David Langford as its new chief executive, starting in the role on 14 March, 2022.

Mayor Hamish McDouall says the appointment is an important one for Whanganui and the council. “We are delighted to have found a candidate with the experience and personal qualities needed to lead a large and complex organisation like Whanganui District Council.

“David will bring a fresh perspective to this role, with over a decade of private sector experience in the construction contracting industry. His focus as a leader is on supporting people’s capabilities and creating highly engaged teams who work to deliver services to an excellent standard.”

Mayor Hamish says David Langford’s current role is with New Plymouth District Council where, as group manager for planning and infrastructure he has had responsibility for the management of parks and reserves and a wide range of development and planning functions as well as essential infrastructure.

David is moving to Whanganui with his wife and two children and takes the place of Kym Fell who left at the end of October 2021, for a role with Wellington City Council.

Mayor Hamish says, “I would like to thank and acknowledge the council’s chief operating officer, Lance Kennedy, who has stepped into the role of interim chief executive since Kym’s departure.”

He says the appointment of David Langford as chief executive will be an asset to the council, providing strong and strategic leadership in what is set to be a busy time ahead for the Whanganui district.

“There are several significant developments and areas of work underway that will benefit our district and community, including the council’s work to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change, the ongoing redevelopment of the Sarjeant Gallery and the revitalisation of Whanganui’s port.

“We are facing a time where steady and foresightful leadership is needed for the significant changes to come, relating to the future of local government and the reform of resource management and three waters.” 

Mayor Hamish says “We very much look forward to welcoming David to Whanganui when he takes up the position in March.”

ENDS 

 

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