Recreation and Sports Unit proposed realignment

29 June 2006

A proposed realignment of the Christchurch City Council’s Recreation and Sports Unit will provide residents city-wide with access to world-class sporting facilities, services and programmes.

Recreation and Sports Unit manager John Filsell today announced the proposal to staff, saying the proposed new organisational structure would remove duplication of functions, inconsistencies in service levels and blurred accountabilities following the March merger of the Recreation Facilities Unit, Recreation, Sport and Arts Team and Leased Facilities Team.

He said it would also strengthen leadership capabilities and through the development of city-wide programmes promote the delivery of a consistent, cost-efficient and high level of service.

If adopted, the Recreation and Sports Unit would establish a matrix structure, with four positions responsible for the leadership and delivery of the unit’s customer experience.

Three positions, based on the delivery of an integrated customer experience through Council facilities and the community, would be established on geographical locations. The fourth position would be responsible for the city-wide sports services function.

"This team would focus on delivering the Council’s contribution to sports development, events, promotions, allocation of grounds and funding," Mr Filsell said.

Three roles would deliver city-wide services and resources to the Unit. These managers would be responsible for maintenance services, business operations, and programmes and activities.

Under the Change Proposal, 18 positions would be disestablished (10 of which are currently vacant) and 15 new positions would be created.

"The proposed new structure enables the Recreation and Sports Unit to provide effective support to its internal and external stakeholders through strategic planning, delivery of services, teamwork and strong leadership," he said.

Submissions from affected staff on the proposed changes are open to 19 July with a final decision expected to be announced early August.

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