Competition Heats Up For Ashburton Council’s Top Job

Thursday, 23 January 2025, 5:09 pm
Article: Jonathan Leask - Local Democracy Reporter

The chief executive position at Ashburton District Council has received 25 job applications, including one from the current boss.

Current chief executive Hamish Riach has completed the maximum term of employment permitted under the Local Government Act of seven years (five years, plus a two-year extension).

The role is required to be readvertised, and the incumbent can reapply.

Riach indicated in December that he would be re-applying for the role.

Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown said he will meet with the recruitment agency, Brannigans, and the executive committee members to discuss the applications.

The committee includes deputy mayor Liz McMillan, councillors Leen Braam, Carolyn Cameron, and Lynette Lovett.

“The executive committee will select the shortlisted applicants, with full council making the final appointment decision.

“We expect the recruitment process to be concluded early-mid March.”

Riach was appointed in 2018 and will have completed seven years in September 2025.

According to the council’s 2023/24 annual report, Riach’s salary for 2024 was $369,000 – up from $356,000 in 2023.

The former Crusaders boss of 17-years now faces competition for the role, similar to the process other Canterbury councils have faced recently.

In 2023, the Selwyn District Council appointed Sharon Mason as its new chief executive. Mayor Sam Broughton said it was a rigorous process which attracted a large number of high calibre applicants.

Timaru District Council also appointed a new chief executive in 2023 in Nigel Trainor.

Last year the Christchurch City Council had 37 applicants for its chief executive position, with three shortlisted and interviewed by the mayor and councillors.

The panel didn’t make an appointment at the end of the process and instead asked the interim chief executive Mary Richardson to apply.

She did apply, but required a shorter term than five years. Richardson signed on until the end of the 2025/26 financial year.

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