Auckland City appoints chief executive

Auckland City Council tonight appointed its director of finance, David Rankin, as its new chief executive.

Mr Rankin will take up the role in July 2005.

On April 30 this year, the present chief executive, Bryan Taylor, announced that he would not be extending his contract when it ends next year.

Since then an extensive international search has been carried out to find his successor. The council engaged Sheffield Consulting to ensure a robust process.

Cr David Hay, Deputy Mayor and chair of the bipartisan council sub committee responsible for the search and selection, said there had been more than 20 applications, including a number from overseas. Mr Hay said Mr Rankin’s appointment was a bipartisan decision with overwhelming support from elected representatives.

“Making an appointment at this stage has given the council a great opportunity for succession planning so that there is an orderly transition.

“David was an outstanding candidate. He has great leadership skills and a proven track record showing he has the interests of both the council and the city at heart,” Mr Hay said.

Auckland’s Mayor, Hon John Banks, tonight welcomed the choice of new chief executive, saying Mr Rankin had impeccable credentials and a strong history in local government management and came to the post with an great record of delivering major projects for the city.

Some of those for which Mr Rankin had executive responsibility included the $35 million Town Hall and $42 million Civic restorations, the $205 million Britomart Transport Centre redevelopment and $350 million Britomart above ground development, now starting.

“He’s delivered good financial management, helped enact policies to make the city net debt free and keep rates pegged to inflation. He’s also overseen major projects behind the scenes which will now allow the city to make further significant moves into electronic transactions,” Mr Banks said. “ As a director, Mr Rankin has demonstrated his ability to work closely with elected members over several terms of council – including three Mayors, two deputy Mayors and three finance committee chairs. The council is going to continue to be very well served.”

Cr Bruce Hucker, leader of City Vision and a member of the selection panel, said that the appointment of David Rankin was an excellent one and the council went through a fair and robust process to achieve such a good result.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr Taylor said: “I am delighted that an internal candidate has been selected. This is a direct reflection of the high calibre of staff at Auckland City.”

Mr Taylor said he was looking forward to working with Mr Rankin to ensure a smooth and successful hand over of duties before he leaves Auckland City in July next year.

David Rankin holds a law degree and has 20 years’ experience in local government.

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