Waikato Regional Council today approved a 1.8 per cent pay rise for chief executive Bob Laing after confirmation that he had met all performance objectives for the year ending 30 June 2012. The increase takes the chief executive’s annual remuneration to $313,768.

Chairman Peter Buckley said Mr Laing had performed well and provided steady leadership during the period under review.

“The CEO has continued to do a good job across all areas of our business,” Cr Buckley said.

Mr Laing’s five year employment term ends in November.  Under local government legislation the council must advertise the position or reappoint the chief executive for a second term of up to two years. The council will decide its next steps on 7 March.