News
After 25 years helping shape the direction and future of Southland, Great South's General Manager of Strategic Projects Steve Canny is retiring from his role.
Great South Chief Executive Chami Abeysinghe said Canny's influence could be seen right across the region.
Since joining Venture Southland in 2001, Canny has played a central role in some of the region's most significant projects and initiatives, helping position Southland as a connected, forward looking and resilient region.
His work has spanned multiple sectors and decades, including leading the establishment of New Zealand's first ubiquitous regional broadband network, developing and managing SpaceOps New Zealand and guiding regional energy planning for more than 20 years.
He has also contributed to the development of the Hump Ridge Track as a Great Walk, alongside extensive work in climate change, decarbonisation and greenhouse gas emissions reduction.
Great South Chair Ian Collier said Canny has also helped position both Southland and New Zealand on the world stage through emerging industries and innovation.
"Steve has played an important role in advancing new opportunities for both the region and the country. His work in areas such as energy and aerospace has helped place Southland at the forefront of a number of emerging industries," Ian Collier said.
Mr Collier went on to acknowledge Steve's involvement with hydrogen. "He was a founding member of the New Zealand Hydrogen Council, serving on the council for 10 years and spending the final four years of his term as Chair," he said.
"Steve has the ability to break down complex challenges and bring people together around a shared vision. He has also played a significant role in building capability within the organisation and supporting others to grow their understanding and confidence," Ian Collier said.
"Steve has been involved in work that has had a significant impact on Southland's development and reputation over many years. His technical expertise, combined with his long-term commitment to Southland, has helped deliver outcomes that will benefit many of our communities for generations," Ian Collier said.
"He has made a significant contribution not just to Great South, but to the wider region," Ian Collier said.
In 2017, Canny was recognised for his service with appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, alongside a number of other local and national awards and governance roles.
Reflecting on his career, Canny said the opportunity to contribute to Southland's development has been a highlight.
"It's been a privilege to be part of an organisation that has helped shape the region over such a long period of time. There have been some complex challenges, but also real opportunities to create positive change alongside a wide range of people and organisations," Steve Canny said.
"I've always believed in what Southland can achieve and it's been rewarding to see that continue to evolve," Steve Canny said.
Canny said he was looking forward to the next chapter.
"I'm looking forward to spending more time with my whānau and taking a step back, while still staying connected to some of the work through an advisory role with Great South," Steve Canny said.