The TAB New Zealand Board has appointed Dean McKenzie as Chief Transition Officer, a full-time management role leading the organisation’s day-to-day responsibilities and ensuring a smooth transition to a permanent Board once they are appointed.
The selection follows the announcement earlier today by the Minister for Racing, Hon Grant Robertson of the appointment of Liz Dawson as Interim Chair of TAB NZ, replacing McKenzie who has stepped down from his prior role as Chair to take on the new position.
Chair of the interim TAB NZ Board, Liz Dawson said the TAB needed surety and consistency through this critical phase of the business as it transitioned to its new focus following the passing of the Racing Industry Act last year.
“By the end of this year, the TAB will need to have supported the finalisation of racing reforms, developed a five-year strategy and a Statement of Intent and ensured a smooth transition to a new, permanent Board once they are appointed. The Board recognises this ambitious programme of work, on top of leading day to day business, requires immediate focus and we’re delighted Dean has agreed to take on this responsibility, said Ms Dawson.
“For various reasons the appointment of a new Board has taken a bit longer than anticipated, so provide surety to the business, its staff, and racing and sport stakeholders, we’ve acted now to appoint Dean until a permanent CE is appointed by a new Board.”
Chief Transition Officer, Dean McKenzie said he was pleased to commit to the business as it transitions to a more commercial, customer-focused business.
“I’m looking forward to focusing on managing the business through this period of change and delivering on our immediate objectives while ensuring a smooth transition to a new Board and Chief Executive when it happens, said McKenzie.
“From a day-to-day perspective, I don’t anticipate much change to our activities but I am looking forward to having a more hands-on role and working with the current leadership team to deliver great betting products for our customers and maximise profit for racing and revenue for sport.”
