Mike Richardson, City Manager
Christchurch City Council
April, 2003
From June 2001 I employed Gordon as a consultant to undertake a review of the quality of policy advice at the Christchurch City Council. Following the successful completion of this he undertook a series of reviews looking at the functioning of the city's six community boards. During this series of projects he displayed penetrating judgement, insight and tact in getting to the heart of a number of difficult inter-personal issues involving elected members and staff.
I have found Gordon to be always insightful and able to add value in a wide range of analytical and general management situations. He seems unflappable under pressure, ready to be empathetic, has a deft use of humour and models the highest ethical standards. He has a gentle yet firm manner and carries himself with a natural authority that is quickly respected by those who come into contact with him. He is an outstanding written and oral communicator.
Mike Richardson MA, MA, FRS, FNZIM, MRTPI
Bob Parker, Mayor
Christchurch City Council
July, 2009
Gordon Ryan was directed by the Christchurch City Council to facilitate the investigations into closer working relationships between Banks Peninsula District Countil and Christchurch City Council. This took the form of initial ideas around a shared services model which ultimately led to acceptance between the two councils for a merger.
The whole peninsula community owes a debt of gratitude to the detailed professional guidance and support Gordon Ryan gave to the task of helping both the Christchurch and Banks Peninsula communities understand the issues involved.
Yvonne Palmer, Past Chair
New Zealand Community Board Executive
October, 2003
I have seen Gordon's skills which enable him to work with all levels of local government to achieve results. These results have come from his professionalism, communication, research and conflict resolution experience, the combination of which allowed him to facilitate all Board members toward change for the betterment of our communities. As a Community Board Chairperson, I have personally been involved in working with Gordon to achieve these outcomes and have no hesitation in recommending his services as a consultant.
Doing good is more important!
Doing well in life is important.
West Jordan City Council, Utah
- I found Mr. Ryan to be . . . thorough, forthright, principled, and loyal to a fault. He is someone you can trust to be honest with you even when that may not be an easy task. He always follows through on what he promises. As Mayor, the one thing I have learned is that there are few people who have these aforementioned qualities. You would be fortunate to retain his services.
Donna Evans, Mayor
City of West Jordan, Utah
Hurunui District Council, New Zealand
- Recently I employed Gordon to develop a communications strategy concerning two key and sensitive issues in part of our community. . . Gordon's work with this project has been well received and the desired result has been successful . . . I have found Gordon to be a very effective communicator, able to comprehend the complexities of organisational and public relationships. Gordon works well with people of all backgrounds . . . has a calm disposition and is a good listener. people warm to his overall style of approach. I was impressed by his perceptiveness, organising abilities and people skills.
Paddy Clifford, Chief Executive Officer
Hurunui District Council
Amberley, New Zealand