Who got that job?

Were you one of the 47 people who applied for this job and wondered who got it? By KAREN GOA

Chief executive officer, Harbour Rugby

Noel Coom, 52, sees "improving the stature of Harbour Rugby so it has a leadership role within the community" as his main off-field goal as CEO.

Born in Canterbury, schooled in Christchurch and now a North Shore resident, Coom brings along plenty of corporate experience.

During his 33 years in the shipping and transportation industry in Australia, New Zealand and the United States he was general manager of Australia-New Zealand Direct Line in New Zealand and held vice president roles within other companies in the industry. He was group general manager in charge of Rail Services for Tranz Rail before switching to the sporting arena.

With two new, younger coaches, Alan Pollock and Mark Anscombe, on board, the game plan is to build on previous work and to compete in the market to develop and retain players. "Harbour hasn't yet won an NPC title or a Ranfurly Shield - there's nothing like trophies to fire up interest."

Looking after stakeholders and increasing sponsor support are high on the agenda. "Professionalism is an emerging industry in rugby - we have to compete for entertainment dollars." Harbour Rugby enjoys good support from current sponsors such as QBE Insurance and others.

Coom is also keen to see Harbour Rugby maintain good relationships with the NZRU and the team's home base, North Harbour Stadium, and to "keep our community of clubs well informed - over and above achieving on the field".

"We have a growing population on the North Shore, a vibrant business community, 12 clubs in the union from Massey to Mahurangi, tremendous facilities at North Harbour Stadium and Millennium Institute, and two universities in our catchment area. These are a wonderful foundation to build on."