The Infrastructure Decision Support (IDS) Board are delighted to announce that Julie Muir has been elected as the new IDS Board Chairperson, as of 14 May 2020.
Current Chair, Neil Cook steps down after his second time in this role, with his most recent term being 2017-2020. He will remain a director on the board and has been acknowledged for his valuable input and direction over the past three years.
Julie Muir has worked alongside Neil during this time and said,
"I am very excited to be taking over the reins from Neil. He has been an inspirational Chair and is committed to improving the quality of asset management for the benefit of New Zealanders. During his time as Chair, he has guided IDS to invest and expand their offering to provide greater support to the sector. As well as the highly regarded sealed road deterioration model, we also have introduced models for water pipes and unsealed roads and have undertaken a number of bespoke projects for clients. We are thankful Neil has chosen to remain on the board and I am confident to take on this role with his support.”
Julie's Background
Julie brings extensive experience to her new position as Chair. Her impressive CV includes 13 years as Roading Manager for the Central Otago District Council (CODC). She is a founding member of the Road Efficiency Group (REG) and was the first Local Government Chair of the REG Leadership Group. She was also Chair of the working group responsible for setting up the One Network Road Classification (ONRC) Performance Framework.
Four years ago she moved into her current position as Executive Manager for Infrastructure at CODC. In this role, she is responsible for Roading, Water Services and Environmental Engineering, which includes managing one of New Zealand’s largest gravel road networks.
Looking ahead
Julie knows first-hand what can be achieved in cost reduction and improved outcomes with efficient work programming and is passionate about sharing this knowledge with others in the industry.
“I am looking forward to ensuring IDS support not only our clients but also the industry during this challenging time. The IDS tools provide evidence of the implications of reducing or increasing investment in asset renewals and maintenance. This is valuable information for our clients in these uncertain times when many are either looking to reduce costs to customers or undertake increased investment to stimulate local economies.”