The Otago Polytechnic Council has confirmed the appointment of Andrew McSweeney as chief executive from January.
Mr McSweeney was deputy chief executive of mega-polytechnic Te Pūkenga, which was broken up this year.
It comes after a turbulent 18-month period for the polytechnic, as it has had to make significant cuts to staff and courses in order to become financially viable as an autonomous entity.
Otago Polytechnic union delegate Craig West welcomed the new chief executive, although he admitted he did not know much about him.
"Obviously, the plus is his experience with Te Pūkenga, so he’ll have an idea how tertiary education works."
Mr West said it had been an extremely tough time for staff, who had to endure multiple restructures over the past couple of years.
"What we would hope for is ensuring that our viability is solid and that we can move away from the cuts and the slashing and burning that’s gone on for this year.
"People are exhausted and I think the time has come to have a good year of some positiveness and moving forward and building things up together."
Mr West said he was pleased that Otago Polytechnic would be a standalone entity from next year.
"We felt that we’ve lost so much by not being Otago Polytechnic, if you get what I mean and I know people will be looking forward to getting back to that so as we can build our reputation again."
Mr McSweeney declined a request for an interview before Christmas.
In a statement approved by Otago Polytechnic, he said he was "honoured and humbled" to step into the role as chief executive of Otago Polytechnic and was "energised by the opportunity ahead".
"This institution is grounded in strength, has a proud history of innovation, excellence and community partnership.
"My focus will be on building on the strong foundations already in place and ensuring we work together to deliver outstanding outcomes for learners, industry, iwi and the wider Otago region."
Mr McSweeney’s other previous executive roles included stints at AgResearch, PGG Wrightson and Citycare.
He takes over from executive director Dr Megan Pōtiki, who leaves her role at the end of the year.
In a message to staff, Dr Pōtiki acknowledged the support of her wider leadership team in navigating the ups and downs of the transition period, as the government worked towards disestablishing Te Pūkenga and restoring regional decision-making for vocational education.
"I have loved working for all of you in varying capacities and I love Otago Polytechnic and all that it does for students, staff and our community."
