The latest release from Triathlon New Zealand (Tri NZ) reports on the progress being made by new CEO Craig Waugh, who has hit the ground running during his first months in the role.
It has been more than four months since the CEO’s office was vacated by Dave Beeche, who is now heading up the 2012 Triathlon World Championships programme. Craig Waugh was the top prospect, following a rigorous recruitment process that uncovered a number of very high calibre candidates.
After four weeks as Tri NZ CEO, Waugh has already established connections with many primary stakeholders in the sport and has met with some of Tri NZ’s key sponsors and supporters. Tri NZ President Garry Boon said the Board of Directors is impressed with the energy and enthusiasm Waugh has brought to the table, and is confident the future is in good hands.
“In the period after being confirmed as the CEO designate a month before his official start, Craig put in an incredible amount of ‘homework’ so he’s been able to hit the ground running which has been fantastic,” Boon said.
“Craig is an energetic and extremely intelligent young man and I’m over the moon to see the passionate enthusiasm he’s displaying in his work already. We’ve made amazing progress over the past five years under Dave’s leadership, and I am absolutely confident that Craig will bring a new and objective view to the table which will be just what we need to move Tri NZ to the next level of performance.”
Waugh brings a wide range of skills to Tri NZ with considerable experience in both the sports and the corporate sectors, having previously worked in management with Adidas, Repco and Sovereign.
He states that during his first few weeks behind the desk it has become clear how well governed Tri NZ is, along with stable leadership at a board and management level. “I’ve had great support from President Garry Boon and also Patron Peter Fitzsimmons which has assisted greatly in the transition into my new role. Not to mention the warmth shown by staff,” Waugh said.
“Tri NZ has a great opportunity to maximise the potential that the sport could offer at a participatory level and deliver at a high performance level.
“Courageous but stable leadership is required to realise this potential but alongside Garry Boon I can see this being achieved. My connection with the President and the Board to date has been great, this partnership needs to continue in a healthy fashion where we can challenge each other to grow in all areas.
“I look forward to working with everyone across the sport to achieve our strategic objectives and have a bit of fun along the way.”
