Kia Kaha, Kia Ora | Be Active, Be Well

New Board Appointments at Sport Hawke’s Bay


Sport Hawke’s Bay has welcomed two new board members, Jussara Bierman and Jennifer Robson, along with Alex Nixon, who joins as a board observer for a one-year term.

Jussara is a brand strategist with extensive international experience, Jenny brings a legal background, and Alex, currently the Director of Sport at Woodford House, steps into the observer role as part of the organisation’s commitment to fostering future governance talent.

Dionne Thomas, current board member and appointment panel lead, said the high level of interest in the roles highlighted the organisation’s strong reputation.

“The selection panel was impressed by the depth, diversity, and quality of applicants for these vacancies. It made our task challenging but reaffirmed the respect Sport Hawke’s Bay commands thanks to the collective mahi of both current and former staff and board members across the play, active recreation, sport and hauora sector.”

The new appointments replace long-serving board member Naomi Fergusson, who has completed her nine-year term, and Hine Flood, who is stepping down to take on a new role with Sport Hawke’s Bay as Kaiwhakahaere He Oranga Poutama ki Te Wairoa.

Sport Hawke’s Bay chair Graeme Taylor said the new additions bring valuable expertise to the board.

“Good governance relies on diverse skills and perspectives. Jussara’s strategic brand expertise and Jenny’s legal background significantly elevate our capability,” he said.

He also praised the introduction of Alex Nixon as a board observer.

“The observer role helps us cultivate governance pathways for emerging talent. Alex’s background in school sport makes him an invaluable voice at the table, particularly in creating participation pathways for youth.”

Jussara, with over 20 years of experience in strategic brand leadership across Australia, New Zealand, and China, said her passion lies in driving change through sport.

“My expertise lies in brand-led decision-making and collaboration. As a lifelong sports lover, I’m dedicated to building connections and opportunities in our community.”

She is particularly focused on increasing female participation in sport and breaking down barriers such as limited visibility of female role models and access challenges.

“The opportunity lies in creating pathways that are more inclusive, inspiring, and accessible for women and girls, while engaging the wider community.”

Jenny, a qualified lawyer with a background in dispute resolution, is keen to tackle the challenges facing the sport and recreation sector, including funding constraints, rising costs, and a drop-off in volunteer numbers.

“These are critical issues impacting grassroots organisations and the future sustainability of sport,” she said.

“I bring strong governance, leadership, and legal expertise, and I’m excited to contribute to the Trust’s efforts in overcoming these challenges and achieving its goals.”

Alex, who brings valuable experience from the business of sport overseas and his work in school and community sport, said he is eager to ensure young people have better access to physical activity.

“Having been involved in school sport for many years, I understand both the motivations of rangatahi and the barriers limiting youth engagement in physical activity. My goal is to ensure future generations experience the benefits of sport and active recreation in our region.”

The new appointees join chair Graeme Taylor and existing board members Heidi Beech, Rawinia Lewis, Dionne Thomas, Lisa Pohatu, Tania Karauria, Prue Younger, Chris Petersen, and Mat Arcus.

 


Article added: Wednesday 18 December 2024

 

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