28 May 2006
New Community Support Unit Manager
Catherine McDonald has been appointed as the Christchurch City Council’s new Community Support Unit Manager.
There was a strong field of applicants for the position and a high calibre of external and internal candidates, said
Community Services Group General Manager Stephen McArthur.
“Catherine, who has been acting unit manager since February, has shown strong leadership in the role and a good
understanding of the key community issues that impact on work in this area.
“She brings a wealth of previous management experience and leadership to the position, and through her former role as
Finance Manager, Community Services Group, a good overview of the work being done by the unit and the wider Council
organisation.”
Community Support is a diverse team of more than 100 staff involved in the areas of Community Engagement, Community
Development, City Housing and the Council’s Early Learning Centres.
In the coming year, Mr McArthur said key priorities for the Unit would be the preparation of a Community Development
Strategy, including a review of Community Grants Funding and Community Facilities, and the development of a Housing
Strategy.
“In her new role, Catherine will lead a team of very talented and skilled professionals who have a good understanding of
our community and its needs,“ he said.
ENDS