HASTINGS Co-operative has appointed Allan Gordon as chief executive officer, after extensive advertising that drew 23 quality applicants.
Mr Gordon had been acting as interim CEO since December last year.
He will start in the permanent role on 1 May.
“I am very honoured to accept this position, the Co-op has very long and proud history of serving this community and it will be a privilege to lead the organisation over the coming years,” Mr Gordon said.
“Without underestimating the challenges that the organisation faces, I understand that Co-op needs to listen to the members and the community and provide Co-op businesses that are not only economically sustainable but are providing the community with what they want and need.”
Co-op board chair Julie Muller said the employment of a CEO was the most important role for the board.
“The board delegates the day-to-day responsibility of managing the organisation to the person in this role,” Mrs Muller said.
“The permanent position of chief executive officer was advertised extensively early January 2013 and the board received 23 quality responses from local, national and even international applicants.
“After careful consideration, the board of directors developed a ‘short list’ of applicants and an interview panel consisting of two directors and an independent person.”
Four applicants were invited to be interviewed and the panel recommended two final applicants to make a formal presentation to the seven-member board.
These presentations were made on Friday, 22 March.
“The final choice between the two applicants was very close,” Mrs Muller said.
“The board has been diligent in its considerations in appointing the right person for the organisation at this particular point in its operations.”
Mrs Muller said recruitment of a permanent CEO was intended to be made by 1 March 2012, but was delayed to permit the three board members who were newly appointed in February to participate fully in the process.
“The board wishes to extend their appreciation to all those who answered the expression of interest for this position, all applicants being of a very high standard,” she said.
“On behalf of the Co-op board of directors, the staff and all members, I extend a warm welcome to Mr Gordon as our new permanent CEO.
