Acting chief executive of CERA appointed

State Services Commissioner Iain Rennie has today announced the appointment of Mr John Ombler as Acting Chief Executive of the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA).

Mr Ombler will take up this role on 1 December 2014. Mr Ombler will also be the Acting Chief Executive when CERA becomes a Departmental Agency on 1 February 2015.

Roger Sutton is currently on leave after announcing his resignation on Monday.

“I have had discussions with Mr Sutton today and he was concerned that his departure might slow the momentum of CERA’s work programme in Christchurch. We agreed that Mr Ombler’s early appointment would be in the best interests of CERA staff and the Christchurch rebuild, and would allow Mr Sutton and Mr Ombler to work together on an orderly transition “Mr Rennie said.

While Mr Sutton remains employed, he will not be based in CERA’s offices during this transitional phase.

John Ombler is a highly experienced senior Public Service leader. He is familiar with the rebuild effort and CERA’s role as he was the establishment Chief Executive of CERA. He is a former Deputy State Services Commissioner and has also been a senior manager in the Department of Conservation.

“Mr Ombler will provide stable leadership for CERA and the staff who work there as they continue their vital work on the rebuild effort,” Mr Rennie said.

“Mr Ombler will act as Chief Executive for six months or until a permanent Chief Executive is appointed, whichever is earlier.

ENDS

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