Upper Hutt City Council CE appointed

Published on 08 November 2023

Mayor Wayne Guppy has announced Geoff Swainson as Upper Hutt City Council’s new Chief Executive.

Originally from Wairoa, Swainson moved to Wellington with his family in 2005 to take up the Manager of Infrastructure and Economic Development role at Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ).

He then moved on to Wellington City Council in 2012 to manage the transport network before taking up the Director of Asset Management and Operations and Civil Defence Controller at Upper Hutt City Council in 2017.

“We ran an extensive recruitment process and Geoff stood out among several outstanding candidates,” said Mayor Guppy.

“Geoff’s depth of knowledge and experience in local government will serve our community well. I look forward to working with him, and the leadership he will bring to Upper Hutt City Council.”

Swainson said he feels privileged to be given the opportunity to lead Upper Hutt City Council at a pivotal time for the city.

“I look forward to taking on the role in challenging times,” he says.

“I’m sure my background and length of service in local government will be valuable in continuing to deliver good services to our community.”

The recruitment process began in June 2023 after Peter Kelly accepted the role of Chief Executive at Central Otago District Council.

Kate Thomson, the Interim Chief Executive, will return to her role as Director of Finance, Risk and Digital Solutions.

Swainson thanked Thomson for her continued support as he transitions into the role.

“Kate has done a superb job as interim CE, and we will be working together through a managed transition,” he says.

“I would also like to thank Mayor Guppy and the Councillors for having confidence in me. I look forward to working alongside our elected members and staff to serve our community.”

Contact

For more information on this news release, please email media@uhcc.govt.nz

For more information on Upper Hutt and the City Council, go to www.upperhuttcity.com