Environment Southland chief executive Wilma Falconer has announced she will retire at the end of August 2025, bringing to a close nearly six years with the regional council, including three years in the top job.

“Leading Environment Southland has been a privilege and immensely rewarding for me, both for the challenge and the stimulus the role provides; not least of which is the time I have spent working alongside many exceptional, talented people dedicated to promoting a thriving Murihiku Southland within a sustainable environment,” she said.

Falconer said the decision came at a natural transition point for the Council, following a recent internal restructure and with local government elections set for October.

“With a new executive and organisational structure in place and the local government election in October, it feels like a natural time for my transition,” she said.

Falconer became chief executive in June 2022, having previously held senior roles within the organisation from 2019. These included general manager of strategy, planning and engagement, and acting chief executive.

Environment Southland chairman Nicol Horrell thanked Falconer for her leadership and the work she put in during a particularly challenging period, including the pandemic. He credited her for driving major changes within the organisation.

“The Council is particularly grateful for Wilma’s astute vision and skill in driving improvements in organisational performance and reporting, and for undertaking a full organisational restructure that means the Council is in great shape to deal with the challenges this Council will face in the future,” Horrell said.

“We will miss Wilma, but fully understand and appreciate her desire to focus on her many other interests and we wish her all the best for her future and a well-deserved retirement,” he said.

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