With more than 20 years of experience in community-focused positions, Jean Proctor has been appointed the new Clutha District Council community co-ordinator.
Mrs Proctor has worked as community co-ordinator for Kaitangata and Districts Promotions for the past four years.
She found out the position was available while travelling with her husband Barry and applied from overseas.
"I found out I got the job about two weeks ago ... I'm quite excited about it."
Mrs Proctor will be based part-time at Development House in Balclutha while continuing in her role with Kaitangata and Districts Promotions part-time.
She is looking forward to using her skills to extend relationships with community groups and organisations in the wider Clutha district.
The community co-ordinator role involves assisting and advising community groups with issues like strategic planning, funding applications and meeting procedures.
The Clutha District Council district development manager Julie Pearse said the council was fortunate to be able to secure someone with Mrs Proctor's skills and experience.
"Jean's role with Kaitangata and Districts Promotions means that she already had strong relationships with many community groups throughout the district.
"She will be touching base with community groups over the next month or so to introduce herself in the [community co-ordinator's] role and see how she can help ensure they make the most of the various community development resources on offer," Mrs Pearse said.
