McKavanagh, 41, is a former CEO of Radiola Corporation – the New Zealand distributor of Samsung products – and has managed other retail businesses in the mobile phone and service station sectors as well as holding positions with a focus on business generation.
With football in New Zealand reaching new heights on and off the field, McKavanagh is relishing the challenge of building the game’s current impetus.
“It’s a perfect time to join,” says McKavanagh, who replaces Michael Glading in the role.
“The people who have preceded me have done a great job and now it’s about fully implementing the Whole of Football plan and taking advantage of where football is placed now. We have great corporate support from ASB, Nike, McDonald’s Volkswagen and Persil. Football in New Zealand is in the best position it’s ever been to catapult forward.”
McKavanagh says his background in brand-building will help strengthen the platform to support growth in the game but, as both a player and fan, it is the sport’s grassroots development plan being rolled out over the next six years that really inspires him.
“The big thing for me is realising that Whole of Football Plan vision, ” he says.
“We lose people in their teens, as do a lot of sports, but we have a chance to create the aspirational and emotional connection with the game to keep people involved for life.
“We can also grow players in our elite game. With the Whole of Football Plan in place and the existing pathways through U-17, U-20 and Olympic levels we’ve got a platform to push these players through.”
New Zealand Football Chairman Frank van Hattum says McKavanagh’s appointment will allow continuity.
“Grant brings demonstrated leadership in fiscal management, relationship management and ability to grow business,” says van Hattum.
“We’ve had an unprecedented level of activity in recent times both in terms of international activity and game development and all the while with prudent financial control. With Grant’s appointment we can continue the progress of football in New Zealand.”
McKavanagh assumes the role on May 2.
Background: Grant McKavanagh
• Age: 41
• Chief Executive of Radiola Corporation 2005-2010
• Noel Leeming (three different management positions) 2003-2005
• Caltex NZ (four management positions) 1994-2003
• Has been a football player for over 30 years
Story courtesy of New Zealand Football.
For more on New Zealand football go to www.nzfootball.co.nz