Media Release
10 May 2016

Central Economic Development Agency Appoints CEO

The Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA) has appointed experienced senior manager Will Samuel as CEDA’s founding Chief Executive Officer.

CEDA is a new agency created to help boost economic growth and tourism opportunities for Palmerston North City and the Manawatū region.

CEDA Chairman Malcolm Bailey says Mr Samuel will bring valuable experience to the new agency from the public and private sectors.

Mr Samuel has worked at the Taupō District Council in management roles since 2006. He is currently the Group Manager, Business Development and Improvement /Chief Digital Officer and a member of the Council’s Senior Leadership Group. His current portfolio includes business development, events, property, business innovation and IT.

Mr Samuel’s background also includes roles in the oil, telecommunications, sports industries and start-up businesses. He is a member of the Institute of Directors and the Asia New Zealand Foundation Leadership Network.

A recent recipient of a Winston Churchill fellowship, Mr Samuel has an excellent understanding of how to enable economic development in provincial locations in New Zealand and overseas.

“We are delighted that Will has accepted the role. We are now well placed to move ahead and get CEDA up and running to deliver the results our community expects,” says Mr Bailey.

Mr Samuel says he is excited by the opportunity.

“Regional economic development is of critical importance to the future of New Zealand’s economy. I am looking forward to returning to the Manawatū, where I spent my university years.”

Mr Samuel says the region has a diverse economy with a number of strengths and opportunities.

“Working with a range of business and government entities is a key priority and will be pivotal in enabling the economic success of Palmerston North City and the Manawatū District,” says Mr Samuel.

Mr Samuel will start his new role on 11 July.

The Palmerston North City and Manawatū District Councils are joint owners of CEDA.

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