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An executive who played a key role in the 2011 Rugby World Cup has been appointed Chief Executive of Wellington's Westpac Stadium.

Shane Harmon, who was General Manager Marketing and Communications for Rugby New Zealand 2011, will take over when long standing Chief Executive David Gray retires on 30th June.

Westpac Stadium Chair John Shewan said Harmon had been chosen from an impressive list of over 40 people who had expressed interest in the role.

Shewan explained "our Board was delighted at the calibre and diversity of applicants for this pivotal position.

"Shane stood out as having exceptional skills around marketing, strategy, event management, venue negotiations, brand development, ticket sales and fan engagement."

Harmon is currently deputy Chief Executive of the local organising committee for AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015. He has also held positions as general manager marketing for the Australian Rugby Union and as membership and marketing manager for the Australian AFL team, the Sydney Swans.

He explained "I am tremendously excited by the opportunities and challenges this role presents.

"Westpac Stadium is a fantastic community asset and is clearly New Zealand's leading multi- purpose facility".

"My family can't wait to return to live in Wellington, a city we fell in love with over the four years we lived there during RWC 2011".

John Shewan paid tribute to the role David Gray has played in leading the Stadium over the past 16 years, adding "David and his team have performed an incredible feat in getting the Stadium from an unlikely and challenging dream to a highly performing venue that is the envy of other cities. It is a superb asset for the region. The upgrade taking place as part of the Master Plan initiated by David will ensure that it remains at the top of the pack."

29th January 2013 - DAVID GRAY TO RETIRE FROM WESTPAC STADIUM CHIEF EXECUTIVE ROLE

13th November 2012 - MANAGEMENT CHANGES IN NEW ZEALAND SUPER RUGBY 

12th November 2012 - WESTPAC STADIUM INTRODUCES NEW SKIDATA ACCESS CONTROL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 

3rd November 2009 - WESTPAC STADIUM RATED NEW ZEALAND’S BEST SPORTS VENUE

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