News Release
Tuesday 18 December 2012
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New Infrastructure Services head for Rotorua District Council

ROTORUA 18.12.12: Rotorua District Council (RDC) has appointed Andrew Bell as its new Infrastructure Services group manager.

Mr Bell has been acting group manager since his predecessor Nico Claassen resigned to take up a position in Western Australia in early November.

RDC chief executive Peter Guerin said it had been a comprehensive recruitment process with 55 applications received from within the council, across New Zealand and from overseas.

He said some very experienced candidates had applied but in the end Mr Bell stood out as having the best mix of skills, experience and track record for providing the quality operational management and strategic leadership attributes required for the council’s vital infrastructural services.

“It’s a very important and challenging job, especially in the economic climate we’re currently experiencing. The council has a billion dollars’ worth of assets which need to be effectively maintained, developed, and continually replaced over time.

“Andy is very committed to our council’s ‘Lean Thinking’ business improvement programme with its focus on customer service, eliminating waste and continuous improvement. His commitment will contribute to our goal of becoming New Zealand’s best local authority.

“He has proven himself to be a competent engineering manager over the 33 years he has been with the council. He knows our organisation and our community well. He understands our current needs and he has a sound vision of the opportunities for continuing to provide high quality, future-proofed services at the lowest possible cost to our community.

“Andy has effective networks within Rotorua and across New Zealand and has established relationships with our elected members and other management and staff at RDC. This means his appointment can become effective immediately and he can hit the road running,” said Mr Guerin.

Mr Bell said he was very pleased to be stepping up to the top infrastructure and engineering role at the council.

“I appreciate the confidence that the chief executive has shown in me and I know I have big shoes to step into as Nico Claassen before me achieved much in this area for our community.

“However I am particularly fortunate to have a team of very talented managers looking after our various infrastructure, engineering, and parks and reserves areas and I regard them as equalling the best in the country in their respective disciplines. With their support we can continue to ensure that Rotorua residents are provided with services that are the envy of other local authorities in New Zealand.”
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