Former Queenstown Chamber of Commerce chief executive Ann Lockhart has been appointed interim chief executive to lead the newly established Southland Regional Development Agency (SRDA).

Chairman Ian Collier said Mrs Lockhart would hold the role from June 17 until a permanent chief executive is recruited.

“With over 20 years’ experience in senior management roles, a proactive and proven approach to growing business, and familiarity of the Southland landscape, Ann is the ideal candidate for the position,” he said.

Alongside her previous CEO role, Lockhart has been involved in a wide range of industry sectors including government relations, business development and tourism, is a current director of Destination Queenstown and trustee of the Wakatipu Community Foundation – a philanthropic trust set up to promote community collaboration.

Mr Collier said this extensive experience meant Mrs Lockhart had a comprehensive understanding of economic and tourism development and will be a key driver of the transformational change sought by the Southland Regional Development Strategy.

Southland District Mayor Gary Tong, who chairs the Joint Shareholders Committee (a committee of the SRDA shareholders), said the appointment of Mrs Lockhart signalled another exciting stage in the region’s development.

“We’re delighted with Ann’s appointment and know she will set a strong foundation for the agency moving forward, working alongside the board and shareholders to set a framework to achieving the ambitious goals we have for the Southland region.”

Mrs Lockhart will lead Southland’s regional development efforts while a permanent chief executive is sought, with applications for the position open until June 16.

Meanwhile, Mr Collier said the SRDA board was working with outgoing Venture Southland chief executive Paul Casson and the Joint Shareholders Committee to ensure a smooth transition, with the new agency to formally come into effect from 1 July 2019.

“We’re very excited for what the future holds for Southland and are looking forward to working with Ann to help supercharge the region’s ongoing success,” Mr Collier said.