Media Release from the State Services Commissioner

Tuesday 2 May 2006

Chief Executive Appointed for Ministry for the Environment

The State Services Commissioner, Mark Prebble, announced today the
appointment of Hugh Logan as Chief Executive and Secretary for the
Environment, Ministry for the Environment. Mr Logan is currently the Chief
Executive and Director General of the Department of Conservation.

Hugh Logan has nine years' experience as a chief executive and 26 years'
experience in the Public Service. He was appointed to the position of Chief
Executive, Department of Conservation in May 1997. Prior to this he was
Regional Conservator, Department of Conservation in Nelson and from July
1988 to June 1991 he was Director, Antarctic Division at the Department of
Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). His earlier career included
roles at the Ministry of Civil Defence, the DSIR and the Prime Minister's
Department.

He has a MA Hons (First Class) from the University of Canterbury.

Mark Prebble says Hugh Logan has an excellent track record as an experienced
chief executive and Public Service leader.

"He assumed leadership of the Department of Conservation in the aftermath of
the Cave Creek tragedy and has managed the rebuilding of capability at the
department. Hugh Logan also has substantial experience in managing
relationships with stakeholders in business and the wider community. He has
won respect for managing complex conservation issues which at times have
been contentious.

"The shift from the Department of Conservation to the Ministry for the
Environment is significant. It involves a move from a role advocating
conservation values to a role leading policy development that is critical to
New Zealand's economic and social wellbeing.

"I am confident that Hugh Logan has a comprehensive understanding of the
issues facing the Ministry for the Environment and the skills to adapt and
succeed in a more policy focussed role.

"He has the ability to make the transition from conservation management to
wider environmental policy leadership both in New Zealand and
internationally, as shown by his past career changes."

Mark Prebble also acknowledged the work of Sue Powell, who has been the
Acting Chief Executive at the Ministry since March. Hugh Logan will take
up his appointment on 29 May 2006.

ENDS

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