Management Structure

The Chief Executive: Leading Council's Operations

By law, Council must employ a Chief Executive. This is the person responsible for:

• Employing all other Council staff on behalf of Council
• Implementing the decisions Council makes
• Providing advice to Council and Community Boards
• Managing Council's day-to-day activities
• Providing leadership for staff

The Chief Executive is appointed by the Mayor and councillors for a term of up to five years, which can sometimes be extended for an additional two years. Council, as the employer, agrees on objectives with the Chief Executive and monitors performance against these annually. A committee may be established to handle this, reporting recommendations back to Council on employment terms and conditions.

Clear Lines of Authority

Under the Local Government Act 2002, the Chief Executive is the only person who may lawfully give instructions to Council staff. This means:

If you have concerns about individual staff members, direct these to the Chief Executive, not to elected members.

If you have concerns about the Chief Executive, direct these to Council.

This clear separation ensures Council operates efficiently, with elected members focused on governance (setting direction and policy) and management focused on operations (implementing decisions and running services).