Sutton replacement appointed early

JOSEPH JOHNSON

FRONTING UP: Roger Sutton at the press conference announcing his resignation on Monday.

The Government has appointed an acting chief executive who will head up the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority for more than two months before Roger Sutton officially leaves.

Sutton is currently on leave after announcing his resignation on Monday after aseven-week investigation into harassment allegations

An independent report did not recommend he be dismissed, but State Services Commissioner Iain Rennie said the case amounted to "serious misconduct".

Sutton was expected to continue in his role until January 31, receiving his salary, but today Rennie announced that John Ombler would become acting chief executive as of December 1.

"I have had discussions with Mr Sutton today and he was concerned that his departure might slow the momentum of Cera's work programme in Christchurch," Rennie said in a statement this afternoon.

"We agreed that Mr Ombler's early appointment would be in the best interests of Cera staff and the Christchurch rebuild, and would allow Mr Sutton and Mr Ombler to work together on an orderly transition " Rennie said.

Sutton remained employed but would not be based in Cera's offices during the "transitional phase".

Ombler would be the acting chief executive when Cera merges with the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet on 1 February 2015.

Read more:
Sutton replacement appointed early