January 14, 2012 10:06am by David Farrar

Will Rich head up Wellington business?

Names are already being floated for the top job at Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, but no-one will say whether a popular former politician is in the running.

Former National MP Katherine Rich is rumoured to be a contender, although this could not be confirmed by either Rich, who was unavailable, or chamber chairman John Johnston. “We’re in the early stages of a process,” said Johnston.

However, he stressed the chamber was seeking a candidate “who’s got a track record in a senior leadership role with outstanding commercial acumen and very strong relationship management skills.”

Well if Katherine does want the job, they’d be morons to not hire her.

Rich was a three-term National MP front-bencher who is now chief executive of the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council.

Here’s the thing. Before Katherine took up the FGC role, I had never even heard of the FGC. Since her appointment they have been in the news many times. In fact you’ve even had some people complain that they’re become too influential – which is the ultimate compliment to Katherine.

Mind you I’ve still not entirely forgiven Katherine for retiring in 2008. She robbed us of a great Cabinet Minister!