Development West Coast nets top chief executive

20 January 2009

Development West Coast nets top chief executive

Development West Coast has attracted highly regarded chief executive Dr John Chang to head its operations, heralding a new era of management for the influential organisation.

Dr Chang is well known in Christchurch where he led Canterprise Ltd, the University of Canterbury's commercialisation company, from 2004-08 before establishing Jardoo Investments Ltd early last year.

His appointment follows that of Greymouth businessman Tony Williams late in 2008 as chairman of Development West Coast, signalling a move to more open communication with the community and stakeholders.

Williams said he was delighted with the calibre of prospective candidates who wanted to work with Development West Coast and said Dr Chang's philosophy matched the organisation's commitment to transparency and co-operation.

"John has an extremely strong executive management background with 15 years of leadership roles in: technology start-ups for private and public companies; publicly listed companies; and university environments.

"He's extremely motivated and committed to leading Development West Coast through creative teamwork, good management and governance. John's experience in managing complex businesses and facilitating the interests of multiple stakeholders will be invaluable."

Development West Coast has more than $110 million of assets under management. It is committed to building sustainable employment opportunities, generating on-going economic benefits for the West Coast region and conducting its affairs in a transparent and accountable manner, Mr Williams said.

ENDS

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