The Council of Assembly is delighted to welcome the Rev Wayne Matheson to the role of Assembly Executive Secretary-designate. Wayne will work alongside incumbent AES, the Rev Martin Baker, for a period of several months before Martin steps down. The appointment is subject to the October General Assembly’s ratification. “Appointing an AES-designate ensures continuity and a thorough handover to what is a complex and demanding role within the Church,” says Council of Assembly deputy convener, the Rev Dr Colin Marshall.
A six-member selection panel, chaired by Professor Gregor Coster, met on two occasions to shortlist and then interview candidates for the role. The panel brought a unanimous recommendation to the Council of Assembly.
Wayne has held a number of national, regional and local church roles in his 23 years of ministry, including most recently as convener of Council of Assembly and as minister at Knox/St Columba in Lower Hutt. Prior to entering ministry, Wayne worked for the Public Trust administering estates and managing trusts.
Wayne brings a strong background in mission leadership, governance, people and financial management to the role having led a wide range of strategic and mission projects during his career to date.
“The selection panel was delighted to receive a number of high calibre applicants for the role, and Wayne’s appointment is a testament to his abilities as a team and mission leader,” says Rev Dr Marshall.
Wayne is looking forward to taking up his role in September.
“I’m thrilled to respond to God’s call and to work in this position. I relish the opportunity to serve the church in this way.”