Whanganui and Partners Manager appointed
Published on 15 December 2014
15 December 2014
Whanganui and Partners has appointed Adrian Dixon as Manager to drive economic growth, tourism promotion and Whanganui’s digital future.
Adrian is an economic development and business strategy specialist with more than 25 years’ experience in export, business and economic development.
He was an export controller for Carter Holt Harvey for several years and also worked as General Manager of Client Services for Trade New Zealand, where he helped New Zealand companies expand their business globally.
Other roles have included business growth manager for WHK (now Crowe Horwath), business mentoring/coaching and management consultancy on a range of projects including strategic reviews, raising capital and new product development.
An experienced presenter, public speaker and advisor Adrian has provided policy advice and delivered speeches and training programmes across a range of business and economic development issues.
“Whanganui is a place with amazing potential and brilliant people. I want to help the community deliver on its vision and potential from both an economic and social perspective by creating a better environment with better paying jobs, highlighting opportunities for entrepreneurs and telling the Whanganui story,” Adrian said.
Adrian has a research and evidence based approach to economic development and plans to align his expertise with the goals of Whanganui and Partners for maximum return.
Outside work, Adrian enjoys renovating houses, gardening and running with his two dogs.
Mayor Annette Main says Adrian’s appointment is a key milestone in establishing Whanganui and Partners.
“We have spent some time getting the Whanganui and Partners structure in place and the right people appointed to its business, tourism and education boards,” Mayor Main said.
“This economic growth model is one of a kind in New Zealand, aiming to build Whanganui into a sustainable, thriving community by working in partnership with key sectors which contribute to our economy.
“Once the structure was confirmed, we needed to find the right person to move it full speed ahead and we are delighted to have Adrian on board to do just that. He brings a range of experience in economic development and business, as well as innovation and passion, to the role.”
Whanganui and Partners will be officially launched on December 15.