New Zealand Post give job to Roche
Brian Roche has been appointed chief executive of the New Zealand Post Group. Company chairman Jim Bolger announced that Roche, currently a senior partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers in Wellington, will take up the position on 1 January 2010.
He said Roche is well known in New Zealand and has undertaken a wide variety of leadership roles in New Zealand with a particular focus on transport, treaty settlements, education and housing. He was project manager for the successful bid to secure the hosting rights to Rugby World Cup 2011.
Bolger said the appointment completed a four-month international search that attracted over 50 applicants. A shortlist of six from New Zealand and overseas was interviewed by a Board sub-committee.
“The strong interest in this position by quality candidates reflects the high regard in which the New Zealand Post Group is held around the world,” said Bolger.
“Brian was an outstanding candidate. He has a highly impressive leadership record with widely respected expertise in governance, management and operations. It is exactly this combination of skills and experience that we need to lead the New Zealand Post Group into its next era. The Board looks forward to working with Brian as he leads the Group in managing its immediate challenges and further positioning the business for sustainable growth into the future.”
Roche has a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration (Victoria University) and is a Member of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants (CA).
The Board recognises that the Group has an existing relationship with PwC as external auditor acting on behalf of the controller and auditor-General. The Board has discussed with the controller and auditor general the measures that will be put in place to ensure all professional and ethical standards are observed.
Bolger thanked acting group chief executive Sam Knowles for his assistance during the transition period, and said he was confident that management and staff would warmly welcome Roche’s appointment.
