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

Yvonne Palmer, Chairperson
Shirley Papanui Community Board
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.

Yvonne Palmer, Chairperson
Shirley Papanui Community Board
Christchurch City Council

Chairperson New Zealand Community Boards Executive Committee
Advisory Committee to Local Government New Zealand.

Doing good is more important!

Doing well in life is important.

Pine Mountain Club Property Owner's Association, California - Gordon demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills in working with the Association staff, members and directors.  Particular management skills included problem-solving, decision making, and delegation.  He was adept at team-building and had the strong support of his staff. 

Eleanore Robinson, Director
Pine Mountain Club, POA
Pine Mountain Club, California

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