LINZ CE Moves On

Chief Executive Brendan Boyle departed LINZ in January after leading the organisation through important changes during the past four years.

Brendan, now Chief Executive of the Department of Internal Affairs, says he is very proud of what LINZ has achieved in recent years.

"Our progress in the high country - operationally and in developing policy; moving ahead with the Landonline 100% e-lodgement programme; and being more conscious of our wider all-of-government role in the geospatial arena are highlights."

A qualified barrister and solicitor, Brendan worked in the former Justice Department for 13 years in a variety of roles, including three years as manager of Otago Land Title Operations. In 1996 he transferred to the newly formed LINZ as Registrar-General of Land, responsible for setting and monitoring standards for the land titles system.

After three years Brendan joined the Sloan Fellows MBA programme at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His thesis, 'E-government for New Zealand: Managing the Transition', was perfectly timed for the transition that LINZ was undergoing.

On his return to New Zealand in 2000, Brendan was immediately able to put his thesis into practice. He spent three months in a change management role at LINZ, developing a transition plan for moving Landonline from project to operational phases. He then moved to the State Services Commission to lead the newlyformed E-government Unit.

Brendan returned in 2003 as LINZ's Chief Executive at the relatively young age of 39. His leadership, rapport with staff, support for their ongoing professional development and willingness to listen to ideas from anyone in the agency were highly valued.

"I have huge respect for the professionalism of all LINZ staff. In particular, those staff in the processing centres who have been part of a long change programme that has meant some uncertainty at times and disappointment at others but who have all worked hard and diligently, giving their best at all times."

That LINZ successfully helped New Zealand's conveyancers and surveyors make the transition from manual to electronic lodgement of land title and survey transactions via the Internet (under the Landonline 100% e-lodgement programme) was a significant achievement during Brendan's tenure.

So too was Brendan's leadership as LINZ navigated the complexities of South Island high country policy and management issues, and established New Zealand's first Geospatial Office.

"The Minister and central agencies have confidence in LINZ to deliver for government. That trust is hard-earned and it will be incumbent on all to continue to work hard to maintain it," Brendan told staff at his farewell.

Brendan also paid tribute to LINZ stakeholders. "During my time here I have forged great bonds with our stakeholders and suppliers. Relationships are critical - to solve issues and get things done."

Kevin Kelly, LINZ's General Manager Policy, is Acting Chief Executive until a permanent appointment is made in the coming months.