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The Live Sport Bible is here!New Zealand Rugby League appoints Andrea Nelson as Chief Executive
Savannah Lendich Jonkers • May 11th, 2026 2:43 pm
Andrea Nelson | Photo: NZRL
Andrea Nelson MNZM has been appointed the new Chief Executive of New Zealand Rugby League, after showcasing an irrefutable world-class portfolio.
The appointment comes at a crucial time for NZRL as the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Wheel Kiwis teams are set to once again make their mark on the world stage.
Nelson will commence her role with more than two decades of senior leadership experience in domestic and international sport including major global events, governance and commercial strategy.
NZRL recently recorded record participation, growth and expansion of pathways for women and youth, sold out stadiums, large broadcast audiences and overseas success.
In a statement, NZRL Chair Justin Leydesdorff said the board was thrilled with the calibre of candidates, however Nelson was a clear standout.
“Andrea brings an incredibly rare combination of strategic leadership, operational delivery and authentic passion for rugby league.
“She’s worked at the highest levels of governance and commercial sport, and understands what it takes to grow organisations in complex environments. But equally as important to the code, she demonstrated a deep understanding of community sport and people.
“We wanted a leader who could sit across the table from the biggest decision-makers in international rugby league, but who would also happily pick up a tea towel at a local club on the East Coast. Andrea is that person,” said Leydesdorff.
Nelson is the former NZ General Manager of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, she led the delivery and commercial development of the Oceania Cup and was the precursor to the Pacific Championships.
She also held senior leadership roles in some of the largest sporting events and organisations including the London Olympic and Paralympic Games, FIFA U20 World Cup, ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Chair NZ Events Association and CEO Gymnastics New Zealand.
Nelson said returning to the world of rugby league feels like a natural homecoming.
"I'm thrilled and honoured to be entrusted with the role of Chief Executive of NZRL.
"Being part of delivering the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in Aotearoa was a career highlight. While I've continued to work across sport since then, rugby league has always held a special place for me, so this in many ways feels like a homecoming," she said.
"I am a huge believer in the power of sport to change lives for the better, and that sits at the heart of rugby leagues 'More Than a Game kaupapa. Rugby league's greatest strength has always been, and always will be, its people, and I look forward to working together to shape the future of the game."
Former CEO Greg Peters stepped down after eight years in March, having led the organisation through years of success and all Covid-19 related issues.
Departing NZRL CEO Greg Peters on the challenges in modern sport | Scotty & Izzy
