Netball NZ CEO Jennie Wyllie. Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz
Netball New Zealand CEO Jennie Wyllie has resigned at the end of a turbulent year, which included the controversial standing down of the Silver Ferns' coach.
Wyllie advised the Netball NZ Board on Thursday that she has made the decision to step down to take time with her family and explore other opportunities.
"We sincerely thank Jennie for her valuable contribution to netball over the last 16 years," a statement from the board said.
"Jennie has guided the organisation through significant change and challenge, and we wish her all the very best for the future," said Matt Whineray, Chair of Netball NZ.
Wyllie, who became CEO in 2016, said it had been a privilege to work with talented and passionate people.
"I am thankful for the opportunities and many memorable moments. There have also been challenges along the way, which come with any leadership role. Now, it feels right to focus on my family and look ahead to new opportunities," Wyllie said.
Netball New Zealand has had a rough 2025. The organisation struggled to secure a broadcast deal for the ANZ Premiership, the sport's domestic showpiece.
But the biggest damage to the organisation's reputation came in September when it announced that Silver Ferns' coach Dame Noeline Taurua was being suspended, due to concerns in the high performance environment.
The saga played out in the media for weeks before Dame Noeline was eventually reinstated, but calls for 'heads to roll' at Netball NZ came from many quarters of the netball community.
The Board will start a process to appoint a replacement CEO in the New Year. David Cooper will be the Acting CEO until the Board determines interim arrangements pending the completion of the recruitment process.
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