Former Napier man named as new Chief of Navy
Former Napier man Commodore David Proctor will take over the top job in the Royal New Zealand Navy after 32 years of service in a variety of leadership roles.
Commodore Proctor was announced this week as the next Chief of Navy. He will take over from Rear Admiral John Martin in a change-of-command ceremony on 29 November.
He is the first officer with a logistics background to be appointed Chief of Navy — the position has typically been held by warfare officers.
He brings a substantial logistical and supply experience to the role, as well as the knowledge from his current position as Deputy Commander Joint Forces.
In his early career Commodore Proctor was Supply Officer of HMNZS Tui, HMNZS Endeavour and HMNZS Te Mana, moving through roles such as Supply Chain Commander and Captain Fleet Support.
He was also the Senior National Officer/United Nations Chief of Logistics at the United Nations Mission in Support of East Timor.
More recently he was the Deputy Assistant Chief Capability/Director Capability Portfolio Planning, Commander Logistics and Chief of Defence Strategy and Governance. He has been the Deputy Commander Joint Forces since March 2018.
“I am delighted and proud to take on this role on behalf of a Navy I’ve enjoyed serving for 32 years, a service that has provided me with amazing experiences and comradeship, both in New Zealand and overseas,” Commodore Proctor said.
Rear Admiral Martin said Commodore Proctor was an experienced and highly professional leader.
“He is perfectly positioned to deliver the next Navy as we introduce new ships and enhanced capabilities. He will ensure we maintain the passion and drive to continue to make the RNZN a world-class navy, committed to protecting what matters to New Zealanders and continuing to play a significant role in our integrated Defence Force.”
Commodore Proctor was part of a joint announcement for new services chiefs on 21 August. Air Commodore Andrew Clark (Blenheim) and Brigadier John Boswell (Waimate) were announced as the new Chief of Air Force and Chief of Army respectively.
