WorkSafe NZ chief resigns

The chief executive of WorkSafe New Zealand, Gordon MacDonald, has resigned after nearly three years in the job.

His final date has not yet been determined as the organisation begins the search for his successor.

WorkSafe’s board chair Professor Gregor Coster said MacDonald has achieved a “remarkable amount” in his time with WorkSafe since he started in March 2014.

“He has built capability and capacity and has set a platform for WorkSafe to confidently build from as it enters a new phase with the arrival (4 April 2016) of the Health and Safety at Work Act. We have built a responsive, effective workplace health and safety regulator under Gordon’s watch and the board is deeply appreciative of his contribution,” said Coster.

MacDonald joined WorkSafe NZ as chief executive after a 35-year career working in the UK Health and Safety Executive.

He will return to the UK to the family he and his wife left behind over two years ago.

MacDonald said the decision was an “agonising” one to make.

“I would dearly love to steer this organisation to further success and effectiveness, but as I explained to the board, and they agreed, family must come first,” said MacDonald.

The WorkSafe board will begin a recruitment process shortly; however, MacDonald has agreed to stay in the role up to the end of November this year if needed until his replacement is found.