Tech staffer quits amid restructure

Aoraki Polytechnic operations manager Ben Lee has quit the tertiary institution as it looks at top-level restructuring.

When contacted last night, Mr Lee confirmed he had resigned, but said he was "not in a position to chat about it" due to an agreement with chief executive Kay Nelson.

Mr Lee packed up and left the polytechnic yesterday. Mrs Nelson was reticent about the reason Mr Lee had resigned and when he gave his notice.

She said he had served out some time since handing in his notice.

"He has made a decision that he wants to move on and we came to an arrangement about his notice time."

Mrs Nelson said it was Mr Lee's decision to leave.

"He had given great service to the organisation ... it's been a long time and he's done a great job and we wish him all the best."

Mr Lee was in the role for about six years and had been marketing manager before that.

He was acting chief executive after Wendy Smith left in late 2008. She was replaced by Mrs Nelson about the middle of last year.

Mr Lee's resignation comes amid a consultation process for the restructure of senior staff.

Mrs Nelson said the review was being done with the full endorsement of the polytechnic's council.

"[We are] exploring possible avenues for how Aoraki may best position itself for the exciting opportunities that present themselves in the tertiary education sector moving forward.

"Aoraki is currently consulting with all staff and will not be making any decisions regarding its senior management and leadership structure until it has considered that feedback."

- © Fairfax NZ News