The New Zealand Rugby (NZR) governing body has bolstered its senior leadership team with the appointments of Chris Kinraid as chief financial officer and Chris Brown as chief commercial officer, while continuing its search for a permanent chief executive.
The appointments, announced today, are intended to strengthen the organization’s executive capacity as it navigates a period of transition and strategic development. Both Kinraid and Brown are slated to join the NZR executive team by the end of February.
Chris Kinraid brings a wealth of financial leadership experience to the role, most recently serving as chief executive of Hallenstein Glasson Holdings Limited. Prior to that, he held the position of group chief financial officer at KMD Brands. NZR chair David Kirk highlighted Kinraid’s “deep financial and executive leadership experience” and his expected contribution to delivering the organization’s all-of-game strategy.
Chris Brown arrives at NZR with a strong background in consumer marketing and brand management. He previously held the roles of chief customer officer and chief marketing officer at McDonald’s Australia, and was also a member of the global marketing team. His expertise encompasses advertising, media, digital programs, brand positioning, and sponsorship – areas deemed crucial for NZR’s future commercial success.
These appointments come as NZR continues its search for a permanent replacement for Mark Robinson, who stepped down as CEO at the end of 2025. Steve Lancaster, who assumed the role of interim CEO following Robinson’s departure, will remain in the position while the board progresses the recruitment process.
Kirk emphasized the board’s commitment to finding the right long-term leader for the organization. “The requirements for the CEO role have evolved over this period, and the board is taking its time to make the right appointment,” he stated. He also praised Lancaster’s performance during the transition period, noting his “understanding of the game, from community to high performance” and the board’s “full support” as he continues in the interim role.
Kirk further explained that the past year has seen NZR consolidate its leadership structure under a single CEO and executive team, alongside a refreshed strategic plan. This consolidation, he believes, has led to increased efficiency, collaboration, and accountability within the organization. The board is now focused on identifying a CEO who can build upon this foundation and lead NZR into the future.
The appointments of Kinraid and Brown signal NZR’s commitment to strengthening its internal capabilities while it continues the search for a permanent CEO. The organization faces ongoing challenges and opportunities in a rapidly evolving sporting landscape, and these new executive roles are seen as vital to navigating those complexities and ensuring the long-term success of New Zealand rugby.
The board expressed confidence that the high caliber of candidates attracted to both executive positions reflects the appeal and importance of New Zealand rugby on the global stage. The focus now shifts to completing the CEO search and solidifying a leadership team capable of driving the organization forward.
