Richard Briggs appointed DCC's next Chief Executive 

Dunedin Mayor Sophie Barker has announced the appointment of Richard Briggs, the former Chief Executive of Hamilton City Council, as the city’s next Chief Executive.

He will succeed Chief Executive Sandy Graham, whose term concludes in October.

Mr Briggs spent seven years as the Chief Executive of Hamilton City Council, leading the organisation through a significant period of growth and transformation.

Most recently he has also served as interim Chief Executive of the Hawke’s Bay Regional Economic Development Agency, helping reset the region’s strategic direction and support relationships across councils, iwi and industry.

“My focus at Hamilton City Council was on building organisational credibility, unlocking major infrastructure investment, and securing partnerships with central government that made a real difference to housing and community outcomes in Hamilton.

“I’ve spent a significant portion of my career in local government and I’m genuinely passionate about it.

“At my core I’m someone who loves building great organisations and getting the best out of the people in them. I believe world-class public sector organisations are absolutely achievable — and that when they’re firing, the difference to communities is profound. I’m coming to Dunedin energised and ready to get stuck in,” Mr Briggs says.

It will also represent a return to Dunedin for Mr Briggs, who previously lived and raised a family in the city while working for Audit New Zealand.

“I understand the place and the community, and I value the role the Council plays in both,” Mr Briggs says.

Mayor Barker says she is delighted to secure Mr Briggs’ services in what is a critical role for the DCC and the wider city.

“Richard was an outstanding candidate in a high-quality field of applicants. He brings a passion for local government and a high-performing leadership style to his role, and we’re incredibly lucky to have him joining the team.

“I also want to again acknowledge the fantastic work of our outgoing Chief Executive, Sandy Graham, who has given many years of service to the DCC. She is a highly skilled, hardworking and effective Chief Executive, who has led from the front in what is a very complex, demanding and public role, and I want to thank her for her efforts.”

Mr Briggs takes up the role in October 2026.

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