Tararua District Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Malcolm Alexander as Interim Chief Executive, effective from 1 September 2025. He will serve in the role until a permanent appointment is made by the incoming Council following the upcoming local body elections.

Mr Alexander brings a wealth of governance and executive leadership experience, having most recently served as Interim Chief Executive of Wairoa District Council. From 2012 to 2020, he was Chief Executive of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), where he led the organisation’s strategy, policy development, and engagement with central government and member councils.

Mayor Tracey Collis welcomed the appointment, saying: "We are thrilled to have someone of Malcolm’s calibre join us during this important transitional period. His proven leadership and deep understanding of local government will provide the stability and direction we need through the election and recruitment process."

Mr Alexander’s career spans the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. He has held senior executive roles at Genesis Energy and M-co Limited, and has contributed to several national boards, including the New Zealand Council for Infrastructure Development and The Aotearoa Circle. He has also served as Chair of The Horowhenua Company Limited, focusing on regional economic development. Most recently he was a member of the Independent Reference Group advising the Government on Climate Change Adaptation Policy.

A qualified lawyer with degrees in law and political studies, Mr Alexander is also a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Programme.

Council looks forward to working with Malcolm as we continue to deliver for our communities and prepare for the appointment of a permanent Chief Executive.

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Transition Details

Current Chief Executive Bryan Nicholson will conclude his tenure with the Council on 6 August 2025, as he takes up his new role as General Manager of King Island Council, Australia.

Until Malcolm Alexander’s arrival, Peter Wimsett, Council’s Chief Advisor, will serve as Interim Chief Executive.