Cambridge Connections reset lead announced

A strong strategic leader with extensive experience in leading national infrastructure planning has been appointed to direct the reset of the Cambridge Connections project.

Katie Mayes, who is currently the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi’s National Manager System Planning and Investment, will join Waipā District Council as Executive Director on Monday, May 5.

As a Cambridge resident, Mayes is really excited at being able to work in her own community. As a graduate of the London School of Economics, Mayes’ career has seen her hold leadership roles in both local and central government, as well as the private sector. She holds a Master of Philosophy in resource and environment planning, a Master of Science in public policy and administration, a Bachelor of Laws and a post-graduate certificate in management.

She is also a chartered member of the Institute of Directors.

Cambridge Connections aims to create an integrated and sustainable transport network to support the fast-growing town over the next 30 years. Mayor Susan O'Regan announced an independent review of the project in April last year, following both public and council concerns over the project’s progress and impact.

In November, new Chief Executive Steph O’Sullivan announced a reset, focusing on moving forward with a fresh approach, and ensuring the Waipā community was at the very heart of the project.

O’Sullivan said Mayes was an impressive leader with a track record for high-performance.

“Katie’s talent for bringing positive energy, connecting people and ideas, and seeing the big picture while driving strategy into action makes her an ideal leader for this critical project.

“As we advance this complex and transformative work, Katie’s collaborative spirit and commitment to finding win-win solutions will be invaluable,” she said.

“I made a commitment to the people of Waipā that we’d be undertaking a full reset of the project including how we engaged with the community, the assumptions we made, the methods we used and the traffic modelling that was undertaken.

“Given the importance of the project, I have taken the time to find the right person to lead this work to help us form the broader picture for connecting Cambridge as a part of the wider district and inter-regional connections.”

Mayes said in her current role she was responsible for strategically planning the national land transport system, including how to fund and prioritise investments, and maintaining central-local government planning and investment partnerships.

“It is a privilege to be able to bring those skills into my own community and help shape the future of the place I call home.”

O’Sullivan said Katie’s role as an Executive Director will allow her to contribute strategic thinking and impact at the Executive Leadership Table.

For more information on the project, visit waipadc.govt.nz/cambridgeconnections.