Presbyterian Support Southland (PSS) Chairman Craig Smith is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Russell as the incoming Chief Executive (CE) for one of Southland’s largest charitable social and health services providers.
Matt will replace current CE Michael Parker who is returning to Christchurch to be with family at the end of this year. Matt has a passion for community-oriented outcomes and is looking forward to the opportunity to work with the PSS team and continue the legacy of community support for Southlanders.
Raised in Southland, Matt ventured overseas for work but returned five years ago with his wife and two children. Matt has extensive experience across several sectors including commercial and not-for-profit, in both executive and governance roles. Since returning to Southland, Matt worked as General Manager of Infrastructure and Environmental Services for the Southland District Council. He also holds governance roles with the Regional Sports Trust – Active Southland and Milford Sound Tourism Limited.
PSS Trust Chairman Craig Smith thanked Michael Parker for the positive and lasting difference he made during his time at PSS for the people of Southland, and wished him well on his return to Christchurch to be near family.
“For nearly three years, Michael has led PSS with consideration and true compassion through crises such as the Gore floods and helped PSS navigate the outbreak of Covid-19. Michael has led through these challenging times with true passion and with the health and wellbeing of both his staff and community always at the forefront.
“Relacing someone of Michael’s calibre was never going to be easy. The Board is delighted to have Matt join our PSS family, and we now all look forward to an exciting future and to serving our community,” Craig said.
Matt Russell will commence on Monday 23 January 2023.
PSS is a Charitable Trust which has operated for over 100 years and provides a range of health and social services in Southland through its service arms of Family Works and Enliven.