Panel Discussion
2
CPD
A Top 5 conversation on the chair and CE relationship, with insights from local government leaders.
The relationship between the chair and chief executive is central to effective governance. As board agendas grow heavier and scrutiny sharper, this dynamic can determine whether issues are addressed early or escalate under pressure.
As part of the Top 5 issues for directors, this session explores the chair–chief executive relationship through the lived experience of Palmerston North City Council chief executive Waid Crockett and Mayor Grant Smith. They will share insights on how trust, constructive challenge and disciplined communication underpin a strong leadership partnership.
The discussion will consider what an effective relationship looks like in practice, along with early warning signs when it is under strain. From role clarity and information flow to managing tension when stakes rise, the session offers practical insights for directors, chairs and senior executives navigating complex governance environments.
Grant Smith is the 29th Mayor of Palmerston North City and was first elected to Council in 2013 and then elected Mayor in a by-election in early 2015. In his fifth term, he is currently NZ's most experienced and longest serving City Mayor.
Grant, prior to entering the Mayoral office, had an extensive business background in advertising and marketing, working with international advertising agencies, along with owning his own agency for over 20 years. He has managed multiple international sporting and cultural events. Serving on numerous national cultural, sporting and business boards before becoming Mayor.
He is proactive in supporting international and global relationships and the key diverse city sectors of; Innovation & Science, Food Research, Education, Sport & Events, Agribusiness, Logistics, Distribution & Transport, Defence, and Healthcare.
He is the current national president of Global Cities New Zealand Inc, where Palmerston North has Sister City relationships with Guiyang and Kunshan in China, Mihara in Japan, and Missoula, Montana in the USA, with strategic relationships in Vietnam with Ho Chi Minh City and Wageningen City in The Netherlands.
Mayor Grant is a practising JP, serves on the National Council and is also the Metro sector Chair for Local Govt New Zealand.
MInstD
Waid is the Chief Executive of Palmerston North City Council. His career spans some 40+ years and has predominantly been in Local Government sector across both Australia and NZ. Waid has been in leadership roles for the past 30 years and has worked in the private sector and owned and operated small businesses along the way.
Waid has had the privilege of working across most activities of Council ranging from Infrastructure, Community & Customer Services, Regulatory Services, Planning and Information Management. This has given him a broad understanding of how to get the best out of our organisation … although he notes that every day is a new adventure.
Waid is a graduate of Massey (NZ) University and the University of Newcastle (Aus) Business Schools.
Should you have any dietary, mobility, cultural or other requirements, you can let us know on the registration form.
By registering for this event you are confirming that you agree to adhere to our event terms and conditions.
Regrettably, registration fees cannot be refunded when cancellations are received within two working days prior to any branch event. See our standard terms and conditions for more information.
Jill Dawson
Wellington Branch Manager
+64 27 278 8814
+64 4 470 2673
jill.dawson@iod.org.nz
The Wellington branch acknowledges the generous support of
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The East Coast region also thank
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The Manawatu region also thank
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Members — $40.00
Non-members — $80.00
