Council appoints interim chief executive
Published on 14 August 2025
Whanganui District Council has appointed a highly experienced interim chief executive to head the organisation until a new leader is appointed.
Former Wellington City Council chief executive Barbara McKerrow will take up the position in October and Mayor Andrew Tripe says the council will be in excellent hands.
“With chief executive David Langford heading to a new role in the UK in September and local government elections taking place in October, a permanent appointment will not be made until after the new council has been sworn in and inducted.”
He says, “We quickly identified that we would need someone in an interim role to keep momentum going through and beyond the elections and across the council’s many projects, initiatives and deliverables. A recruitment process will start very soon in the search for a permanent chief executive role.”
With more than 25 years’ experience as a senior executive, including five years leading Wellington City Council and nine years as New Plymouth District Council chief executive, Barbara McKerrow is known for leading a strong and collaborative workplace culture focused on achieving excellent outcomes for the community.
Her exceptional performance in local government was recognised in 2023 with a Distinguished Management Award made by Taituarā, the national professional body for local government professionals.
Mayor Andrew says, “Barbara’s local government expertise, strong capability in navigating complex political and public environments and adept management of key strategic relationships will be invaluable throughout this time and ensure stability and continuity for staff and the community.”
Barbara McKerrow says she will enjoy spending time in Whanganui. “This district is rich with cultural taonga, innovative thinking and abundant creativity. Your economic development metrics are looking positive, indicating growth is heading in the right direction.”
“Whanganui District Council plays a key role in regional decision-making,” says McKerrow, “and has certainly been noticed in the last 12 months for its contribution and achievements.
“I look forward to working with elected members and staff and to meeting the council’s key partners and community leaders.”
Current chief executive David Langford announced his resignation in July to take up a senior position with Nottinghamshire County Council.