Christchurch City Council chief executive Dawn Baxendale sets high expectations for herself and for her teams.

Dawn moved to Christchurch in September 2019 with her family.

Over 30 years working in local government, Dawn has built a reputation as someone with energy and enthusiasm who works collaboratively with others to get results. She is also known for taking a keen interest in performance (people and finances) of the organisation she leads to deliver for the community.

She has a track record of achieving clear business and commercial outcomes and has led negotiations that have delivered a strong mixed economy to the towns and cities where she has worked.

“In the disruptive and agile environment we are working in, it is critical that local authorities remain future focused and influencing the economic, environmental and community legacy that will impact on communities for decades to come."