New general manager for King Island Council appointed

Bryan Nicholson has been appointed as General Manager of King Island Council.

“Mr Nicholson is an accomplished leader from the North Island of New Zealand with 

extensive experience in local government, community engagement, and emergency management,” Mayor Marcus Blackie said.

“He brings a wealth of expertise to the role, having led high-performing teams and managed significant portfolios in both urban and rural settings across New Zealand and internationally.

“In his most recent role as Chief Executive of Tararua District Council he oversaw a $1.2 billion asset portfolio and led a rural council workforce of more than 140 staff.

“During his tenure, he spearheaded the Tararua Thriving Together 2050 strategy, secured over $100 million in funding for Cyclone Gabrielle recovery, and delivered critical infrastructure projects.

“Throughout his career, Bryan has demonstrated a strong commitment to community development and collaboration. 

“He has successfully worked alongside stakeholders, and 

elected officials to achieve shared goals, and his ability to foster cultural transformation within organisations has been widely recognised.

“In addition to his leadership roles in local government, Bryan has held senior positions in education, security, and defence, sectors, managing complex operations in challenging environments such as PNG and Iraq. 

“His background in crisis management, including leading emergency responses to major events like COVID-19 and Cyclone Gabrielle, further underscores his capability to navigate challenges with resilience and innovation.

Bryan said he is honoured to move to Australia to join King Island Council.