Nelson City Council’s new chief executive is Clare Hadley, who is now the chief executive at Rangitikei District Council.

She replaces Keith Marshall who left Nelson City Council after three and a half years in April.

Mrs Hadley, who will be the council’s first woman chief executive, won the job from a field of 56 applicants from both national and international locations.

She will start her new role on December 17. Acting chief executive Richard Johnson will continue to serve in the role until then.

Mayor Aldo Miccio said he was delighted to welcome Mrs Hadley to the role, acknowledging her two decades of experience in progressively challenging roles in local government at various councils around New Zealand.

‘‘Clare is an incredibly experienced chief executive who is well respected amongst her peers. She has come from a council that is heavily focused on providing quality core services like water and sewerage to the community while balancing the financial pressures that come with the cost of major infrastructure investment.

‘‘With family in the region, Clare has visited Nelson often and has always been drawn to the vibrant CBD and the natural beauty our city offers.’’

Mrs Hadley previously worked at Palmerston North City Council for five years, most recently as general manager community and commercial services. She also worked as economic development manager at Hutt City Council and in managerial roles for both Porirua City Council and Dunedin City Council.

Mrs Hadley said she was delighted to be taking on the role in a progressive city with a strong future.

‘‘I feel privileged to be able to serve the residents of Nelson and to work alongside a council that has great vision for the city’s future.

‘‘There is clear alignment between the vision to make Nelson a better place and the achievements council has made in recent years. Plans for the city’s future are also well in line with continuing to see Nelson grow and thrive. It’s clear Nelson knows where it wants to go and its leaders are working hard to get it there.’’

‘‘I’m truly delighted to become part of the team and look forward to delivering to the community.’’

- © Fairfax NZ News