More "high-profile" positions could be on the chopping block as Wellington City Council continues restructuring from the top down.

Earlier this year, the council disestablished three senior management roles, and is now looking at the heads of business units, including the role of CitiOperations manager Mike Mendonca, who managed the introduction of the city's new fortnightly recycling system last year.

The council did not respond to questions yesterday, but an internal email reveals the restructuring team has been looking at "tier three changes", including "high-profile individuals like Mike Mendonca".

It is understood the council's management team this week presented a restructure proposal for that level to staff, and is seeking feedback.

Yesterday, Mr Mendonca said the proposals had not been a surprise, as everyone was aware that a wide-ranging review was taking place.

"It's fair to say, by and large, my colleagues and I understand that there's a need to change."

He declined to give any further details on the proposal.

In June, it was revealed the positions of infrastructure director Stavros Michael, strategy, planning and urban design director Teena Pennington and citizen engagement director Wendy Walker would be disestablished after all senior managers were asked to reapply for their jobs.

Sally Dossor, Derek Fry, Peter Garty, and Greg Orchard retained their places, but their roles will be reshuffled.

The positions of chief asset officer and chief planning officer were being advertised externally.

Chief executive Garry Poole had earlier confirmed that the council was looking to cut costs, including undertaking "an extensive review of the council's existing structure of business units".

"This process will take about two to three months."

He would not put a number on potential job losses, but 35 redundancies have already been confirmed in the council's works unit, CitiOperations.

Contact Katie Chapman
Wellington reporter
Email: katie.chapman@dompost.co.nz
Twitter: @katiechapman28

- © Fairfax NZ News

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