Netball NZ appoint new boss Jennie Wyllie

ennie Wyllie CEO of Netball New Zealand. Photo / Michael Bradley.

Netball New Zealand has appointed Jennie Wyllie to lead the organisation as it enters a difficult period of transition.

Wyllie replaces former chief executive Hilary Poole, taking the helm at a time when the sport is facing major change, including the move back to a domestic elite competition next year following the split of the transtasman league

NNZ Board chairman John Bongard says the high calibre of applicants made for a very difficult decision but Wyllie, the organisation's former head of finance and service, won the role due to her unique combination of high level commercial experience and an in-depth understanding of the netball environment.

"We are absolutely delighted with the appointment of Jennie to lead Netball New Zealand into the next growth phase," Bongard said.

"We have full confidence that Jennie has what it takes to do an excellent job and her exceptional leadership skills and experience will be key to moving NNZ forward.

"Continuing to bring together stakeholders to further develop the sport is important and the NNZ Board knows Jennie will help develop even closer relationships with the five Netball Zones throughout New Zealand."

In 2015, Netball New Zealand launched a four-year 'Whole of Netball Plan' which has four key areas - to further grow the sport, produce Silver Ferns who win, connect more New Zealanders with the sport, and have a financially sustainable netball system.

"Netball is a sport rich in history and when you couple this with a clear vision and an exceptional leader - we believe it's a very exciting time ahead for the sport."

Wyllie, who has been at the organisation seven years - most recently as head of finance and services - starts in her new role Monday, which is almost three years out from the 2019 World Cup in Liverpool.

"The timing of Jennie's appointment means that she will be able to guide the sport through the next cycle - and it's not just about the Silver Ferns, it's about taking every netball fan, player , coach and official on the journey."

Wyllie said she was thrilled to be appointed the role after seven years at the organisation, most recently as chief.

"This is absolutely my dream job - netball has been a huge part of my life for such a long time and I feel very privileged to have been given the opportunity," Wyllie said.