NZRL chairman named for new-look board

Former board member Scott Carter was today named chairman of the restructured New Zealand Rugby League board.

Under the NZRL's new constitution approved by members at a special general meeting in Auckland in March, the board comprises four appointed directors and three elected directors.

In naming Carter as the first chairman of the new board, appointments panel chairman John Wells also announced the three other appointed directors -- Gary Fissenden, John Bishop and Michele Teague.

The remaining three directors are to be elected at a special general meeting due to be held in late June.

The appointments panel has nominated the NZRL's immediate past chairman Ray Haffenden, Meng Foon and Mark Gosche for these positions.

The panel has recommended that Haffenden be elected as vice-chairman of the board at its first meeting in recognition of the significant contribution he can make in that position and to ensure continuity.

Wells said there was intense interest in the directors' positions, with a total of 79 applications and nominations received for the seven positions.

"The quality of the applicants was excellent, enabling the panel to compile a short list of very high quality," he said.

"Following a rigorous interview process we were able to settle on seven individuals whom we believe possess the attributes crucial in helping to take rugby league forward.

"The appointed and nominated directors represent a mix of governance and rugby league knowledge, proven commercial skills and financial expertise."

Carter is a former police officer who established his own company of which he is chief executive -- Matrix Security Group -- in 1993.

He was a director on the previous NZRL board while his governance experience includes involvement in equestrian sport as the chairman of Eventing NZ.

-NZPA