Diana Puketapu-Lyndon will make history as the first woman to chair New Zealand Cricket (NZC), replacing current chair Martin Snedden. The announcement of her appointment was made today.
Puketapu-Lyndon, who also serves as the chair of the New Zealand Olympic Committee and held the position of chief financial officer in two America’s Cup campaigns, will break new ground as the inaugural female chair of NZC. Snedden, a former CEO of NZC, who has completed three terms as a director on its Board, expressed that stepping down to make way for a new chair was “simply the right thing to do.”
“I’ve decided to resign as the Board chair and as NZC’s representative on the ICC Board. I made these choices to ensure proper governance succession planning and to seize an excellent opportunity for a leadership refresh,” Snedden said.
Puketapu-Lyndon’s appointment is a significant stride towards promoting gender diversity and inclusivity in the cricketing realm. Additionally, Snedden revealed that NZC Board member Roger Twose would assume the role of NZC’s representative to the ICC from the end of this month.
“My last term as an NZC director will end at the 2024 AGM. This gives ample time for a thoughtful handover and allows me to offer support to Diana and Roger over the next 12 months, as needed,” he added.
He emphasized that NZC’s robust financial position at the year’s end instilled confidence in the decision.
“After years of having limited reserves, NZC is now strengthening them to levels that will greatly safeguard our business and our members. The positive financial outcome enables NZC to enhance contributions to Major Associations and community cricket, ultimately improving the game at all levels,” he concluded.