BREAKING: The boss of Lyttelton Port Company has resigned citing an irreconcilable position with the Board.
In an email sent to staff, and seen by Chris Lynch Media, Chief Executive Kirstie Gardener said “it is with sadness that I advise I will be leaving LPC at the end of April 2023.”
Kirstie became Lyttelton Port Company’s CEO in May last year.
“Unfortunately, the Board and myself find ourselves in a position where we have been unable to reconcile our respective positions. Accordingly, I have tendered my resignation. My resignation has been accepted by the Board” Gardener said.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have collectively achieved at LPC.
“There are many highlights and regrettably a significant low light with the passing of our colleague Don Grant.
Don died at the port on April 25 last year, while loading the ship ETQ Aquarius at Cashin Quay.
“Don will be remembered by the LPC team on the 25 April, my thoughts will be with the LPC team and the Grant family on that day.”
CEO Kirstie Gardener quits
“It has been an absolute privilege to be the Chief Executive of LPC and to have served the LPC team, Board, shareholder, customers and community over the last five years.”
”Notwithstanding my departure, I remain in the belief LPC is well-positioned for a positive future.”
Board Chair Margaret Devlin said “Kirstie has been a key part of our organisational transformation, as both a member of the executive team and as CEO.”
”Jim Quinn will join LPC on Monday 17 April as Interim CEO. Jim is an experienced supply chain professional with a deep knowledge of LPC operations, from his previous time as a member of the Board. Jim was the establishment CEO of Kiwirail and was also the CEO of Express Couriers, the joint venture between NZ Post and DHL Group.”
Devlin said “Jim’s focus will be on ensuring in the interim LPC continues to deliver the levels of operational performance customers expect while continuing to maintain our commitments to operate safely, efficiently and sustainably.
“He will lead LPC while the Board commences a full recruitment process for a new CEO, which is expected to take around six months.”
