Boxing: Martin Snedden steps down as Duco CEO

Martin Snedden and Craig Stanaway unveil the WBO world boxing organisation heavyweight belt. Photo / Photosport

Martin Snedden is standing down after two years in his role as chief executive of Duco Events.

The 58-year-old announced his departure to staff on Tuesday, following Joseph Parker's historic WBO Heavyweight Championship win over the weekend.

A statement from Duco confirmed Snedden's final day with the company will be next Friday, December 23.

"Joseph's win over Andy Ruiz last Saturday night nicely bookends my two years at Duco Events," said Snedden.

"When I started working with David Higgins and Dean Lonergan in 2014, the objectives were to move Joseph from a boxing ranking outside the top 15 to a world championship title.

"We wanted to break into boxing promotion in Australia, while also delivering an NRL Nines event which showcased the sport and Auckland City.

"I leave Duco next week knowing those objectives have been fully or substantially achieved."

Snedden arrived at Duco Events in 2014 having assembled an impressive portfolio that included his time as chief executive of Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd, the company responsible for staging the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

"Seeing first hand, the creativity, drive, willingness to break new ground, and determination to succeed amongst a small group of staff is something to behold," he said.

They have given me some amazing experiences and we part on great terms," said Mr Snedden.

Director Dean Lonergan says Snedden leaves the company in the strongest position it has ever been heading into 2017.

"Martin has all our best wishes as he seeks new challenges. However, it will be 'business as normal' for Duco in 2017," said Lonergan.

Fellow Duco director and founder, David Higgins will continue his role overseeing the Brisbane Global Rugby 10s, and take on a new role in the ongoing development of Parker.

Lonergan will now oversee the NRL Auckland Nines and focus his energies on growing boxing in Australia.