ECCC announces their new CEO

Media Release

18 July 2012

ECCC announces their new CEO

The Employers’ Chamber of Commerce Central (ECCC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Raewyn Bleakley as its next Chief Executive.

“Raewyn has a strong background in leading and managing employer membership organisations and has recognised advocacy skills within the wider Wellington stakeholder community. She is a confident and competent individual who understands the need for inclusive management”, says ECCC Board Chair, Peter McKee.

Ms Bleakley moves from her current role of CEO at the Bus and Coach Association NZ (Inc.) and has held previous positions with the Hospitality Association of NZ. Describing herself as a passionate and committed advocate and supporter of the business community Raewyn believes the contribution successful business makes to the economy and to the community is critical, adding “that business support organisations play a valuable role in contributing to this”.

Mr McKee says that Ms Bleakley will focus on bedding down the organisation’s recently completed structural review, other initiatives aimed at enhancing ECCC’s service offerings, and the way it engages with business in central New Zealand. These include the organisation taking a look at its governance structure and its strategic direction.

“We are very pleased with the appointment. It was made from a field of strong candidates and Raewyn will add momentum to our focus on ensuring ECCC is in the best possible position to continue providing high quality and cost effective services to our members.”

The ECCC looks forward to Raewyn taking up the position within the next few months. John Wills will continue as Interim CEO during this transition.

ECCC also appoints new Board Chair

ECCC also announces that Peter McKee, Chief Executive of Windsor Engineering Group Ltd, has accepted the role of Chair for the forthcoming year.

Peter has contributed much to the organisation having helped lead the merger discussions between the EMAC (Employers and Manufacturers’ Association Central) and the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce which led to the creation of ECCC.

Peter McKee was the President of EMAC prior to the merger of the two organisations.

“The merger has been a substantial piece of work and the task now is to see that the benefits of the recent review of our services and offerings are fully secured and realised for members. I look forward to working with the new CEO, staff, members and committees of ECCC locally and throughout the region to further promote the benefits of membership and the value of a strong and vibrant organisation,” Peter McKee said.

ECCC’s previous President, John Johnston, has recently relocated to Christchurch to take up his role as Westpac’s Executive Director, Head of Christchurch Recovery.

“We thank John for his leadership, albeit for a short period as this career step wasn’t foreseen at the time of his appointment and we wish him the best of success in his new role” Mr McKee added.

ENDS

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