Wellington-born Simon Arcus, currently a senior governance consultant with Mercer Australia, has been appointed as the chief executive of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Business Central.
In March 2021, he will succeed John Milford, who stepped down at the end of 2020 after five years in the role.
According to a statement from the organization, Arcus has extensive experience across business, in the financial and insurance industry, and has also headed advocacy and membership organisations. In his current role with Mercer, he has worked with the Goldman Sachs, Alcoa and GM Holden superannuation funds and has spent the past four years overseas.
“It’s great to be starting off 2021 with the announcement of Simon’s appointment as our chief executive. We are delighted to have been able to attract someone of his calibre,” said Vaughan Renner, director of Wellington Chamber of Commerce.
“His knowledge and experience across business, membership, and advocacy organisations will be of huge benefit to our members and the business community. We look forward to him returning from Melbourne in March, once completing MIQ requirements.”
Previously, Arcus chaired the Wellington Cancer Society and the Scots College board of governors. He also held leadership roles in advocacy and membership organisations, including the Victoria Farmers Federation and Master Builders Association of Victoria, and was chief executive of the New Zealand Institute of Directors.
“I’m looking forward to my Wellington return as I grew up there, and it’s definitely home,” said Arcus regarding his appointment. “We have some wonderful, innovative businesses in the region that are, in my view, the undiscovered gems of our business community. I look forward to working alongside passionate people who want to see the whole region succeed.”
