Council Chair John Gallaher says the appointment of Andrew McSweeney as Chief Executive represents an important milestone in the reset and rebuild of Otago Polytechnic, as it looks to re-establish itself as an autonomous regional institution and continues to grow its contribution to Otago’s economic and social wellbeing. 

“Andrew brings strong sector knowledge, a collaborative leadership style, and a clear commitment to learners, staff, mana whenua and industry,” John says.

“We are confident he will provide the strategic capability and delivery focus needed as Otago Polytechnic continues to grow and evolve.”

Andrew brings extensive leadership experience across both public and private sector organisations, including significant roles within the vocational education sector. This includes being Deputy Chief Executive - Learner and Employer Experience and Attraction for Te Pūkenga.

During this role, he was responsible for driving the strategy and leadership across the Learner Success, International, Marketing, Customer Insights and Reporting, Employer and Business Development teams. He oversaw work to continuously improve outcomes for ākonga, employers and industry.

Prior to this, Andrew was Chief Executive of ServiceIQ, the workplace training specialist for the aviation, hospitality, retail, travel, tourism and museums sector.

Andrew says he is honoured and humbled to step into the role as Chief Executive of Otago Polytechnic, and feels energised by the opportunity ahead. 

“This institution is grounded in strength, has a proud history of innovation, excellence, and community partnership,” he says.

“My focus will be on building on the strong foundations already in place and ensuring we work together to deliver outstanding outcomes for learners, industry, iwi, and the wider Otago region.”

“Otago Polytechnic plays a vital role in supporting regional skills development, workforce capability, and community wellbeing. I am committed to partnering and working closely with staff, iwi, industry partners, and the community to further strengthen that impact.”

Andrew’s other previous roles include being Shared Services Director for AgResearch and Group General Manager of Human Resources and Corporate Services for PGG Wrightson. He is currently with Citycare Property as General Manager, Safety, Risk, and Resilience. 

Otago Polytechnic’s Executive Director, Megan Pōtiki, previously announced she would be leaving the organisation on 31 December 2025 for new challenges. 

In a message to staff, Megan acknowledged the support of her wider leadership team in navigating the ups and downs of the transition period, as the government worked towards disestablishing Te Pūkenga and restoring regional decision-making for vocational education.   

“I have loved working for all of you in varying capacities, and I love Otago Polytechnic and all that it does for students, staff and our community,” Megan said.

The Otago Polytechnic Council has been tasked with appointing three more members in the new year. John Gallaher is Chair of the recently appointed Council, alongside deputy chairwoman Rowena Davenport, Scott Mason, and former polytechnic community adviser Mike Collins.

Full details of the Council members and information about their meetings can be found here > 

Otago Polytechnic will formally begin operating as a stand-alone institution on 1 January 2026, initially within a federation model alongside UCOL (Universal College of Learning) and anchored by the Open Polytechnic.

Andrew McSweeney is due to start in his new role in early January 2026.