Northland Rugby Union is pleased to announce that Nicole Anderson has been appointed as the new Chair of the Northland Rugby Union Board, taking over from outgoing Chair Nikita Tomlinson.
Nicole is already a valued member of the Northland Rugby Union Board and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee. She brings strong governance, commercial and regional experience to the role, with a background across health, energy, housing, economic development and the primary industries.
Her wider governance experience includes directorships with organisations such as Te Ohu Kaimoana, Kāinga Ora, Top Energy, NZ Blood & Organ Service and Northland Inc, as well as her role as Chair of the International Accreditation Council.
Outgoing Chair Nikita Tomlinson said Nicole’s appointment was an exciting step forward for the Union.
“Nicole has my full support as she takes on this important role,” Tomlinson said.
“She brings strong governance experience, commercial discipline, regional knowledge and a genuine commitment to Northland Rugby. I am excited for NRU and for the game across Te Tai Tokerau with Nicole stepping into the Chair role.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair and I have every confidence Nicole is the right person to help guide the Union into its next chapter.”
Tomlinson will remain on the Northland Rugby Union Board, continuing to contribute her skills and experience across business, finance, strategy and rugby governance.
Incoming Chair Nicole Anderson acknowledged Tomlinson’s leadership and said she was grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Union.
“I want to thank Nikita for her leadership as Chair and for the energy, skill and care she has given to Northland Rugby Union,” Anderson said.
“Nikita has made a significant contribution, and I am grateful she will continue to sit around the Board table and share her skills, experience and perspective with us.
“It is a privilege to step into the role of Chair. Northland Rugby has a proud history, a passionate community, and an important role to play in growing the game across our region.
“I am looking forward to continuing to give back to the Union and to the game of rugby, and to working with the Board, CEO Paul Lennane, staff, clubs, volunteers, players, whānau and stakeholders as we build on the work already underway.”
Northland Rugby Union CEO Paul Lennane welcomed Nicole’s appointment and thanked Nikita for her leadership.
“Nikita has led the Board with real commitment, care and a strong focus on the long-term future of rugby in Northland,” Lennane said.
“Nicole already understands the Union well and as a past player at provincial level she also brings that practical experience in the game. She has a calm, considered and highly experienced governance approach, and we look forward to working with her in the Chair role.
“It is also a real positive for NRU that Nikita will remain on the Board. Having both Nicole’s leadership and Nikita’s continued contribution gives the Union strong continuity as we keep building for the future.”
The Board thanks Nikita Tomlinson for her leadership as Chair and congratulates Nicole Anderson on her appointment.
