Dr Neil Barnes is named today as interim chief executive of the newly merged Bay of Plenty Wand Waiariki polytechnics.

Neil began his role last week on March 31 and is supporting the current Chief Executives with the various merger work streams in preparation for May 1, says council chair Cathy Cooney.

Dr Neil Barnes has been announced as interim chief executive of the newly merged Bay of Plenty Wand Waiariki polytechnics. Photo: Supplied

From that point he will be taking over as interim Chief Executive of the new institution until the Chief Executive of the new institution is appointed.

Neil was was previously Chief Executive of Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology and Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology. He's a member of the Education New Zealand board and has been the deputy Chair of Bay of Plenty Polytechnic and Waiariki Institute of Technology since 2010.

As a consultant Dr Barns has worked with many ITPs, central government agencies, and on a range of international education projects. He was project manager for the EIT-Tairawhiti merger and part of the international panel which reviewed the national quality assurance system for the New Zealand Qualifications Authority

The appointment is the next step forward for the new institution, says Cathy Cooney.

'As we near the 1 May merger date, it is important to ensure a seamless transition and maintain strong leadership to drive the new institution in its role in enhancing the social and economic development of the wider region.”

Next steps for the Council include holding a series of stakeholder engagement meetings to discuss the intended name of the new institution and aspirations for the new institution.