MEDIA RELEASE - Friday 23 February 2007

Resignation Of Chief Executive Of Department Of Labour

The State Services Commissioner, Mark Prebble, announced today that Dr James Buwalda, Chief Executive of the Department of Labour has resigned.

Mark Prebble said Dr Buwalda is a widely respected leader who has held Public Service chief executive roles for the past 11 years.

He has been Chief Executive of the Department of Labour since July 2003, following a seven year term as Chief Executive of the Ministry of Research, Science and Technology.

“Dr Buwalda has indicated to me that he wishes to move on to new challenges in the next phase of his working, personal and family life.

“Whilst he is leaving before his term of appointment is due to expire in July 2008, Dr Buwalda believes this is the most suitable time for him to take this step.

“Under his leadership the department has made progress implementing a number of initiatives. He has led the department through a major change process, which has involved changes to its structure, strategy and focus. As Chief Executive, Dr Buwalda has had to manage a number of complex issues often in the glare of the media spotlight.

“I respect James for the difficult decision that he has taken to resign before the completion of his term of appointment so that a new chief executive can lead the next stage of implementation of the department’s new business systems and strategy.

“I fully support this decision and hope that Dr Buwalda’s skills will remain available to benefit the wider State Services.

“Dr Buwalda will leave the Department of Labour on 21 May 2007.

“I will immediately begin the recruitment process for a new chief executive,” Mark Prebble said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media