Just three years into the job, Michael Scott has resigned as Chief Executive of High-Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ).
Stepping down as of April 23rd, Scott cites COVID-19 concerns as what is prompting his return home to Melbourne, Australia to be closer with family. Sport New Zealand head Raelene Castle will take over as acting HPSNZ Chief in the interim.
For her part, Castle is new to the team, having been appointed to her post just last November.
Scott was the former Performance Director for Swimming Australia and Chief of Rowing Australia, as well as the former Director of the Australian Institute of Sport. Scott’s resume also includes having served as CEO of the 2007 FINA World Championships organizing committee, while having been National Performance Director of British Swimming in the past as well.
“Although I’ve called time on this chapter earlier than anticipated, Covid-19 has resulted in a tough decision to return to Melbourne to be closer to family,” Scott said. (RNZ)
“It wasn’t an easy decision to reach. It has been a privilege to work alongside the quality people and partners we have within New Zealand high-performance sport.”
“I know however that I leave the organisation in excellent hands, launching a new strategy next week that will strengthen the system and provide future generations of athletes and coaches with the best possible experience and chance to succeed.” (RNZ)
Is he leaving to start his own high performance center?
Did he convince the receptionist to leave with him?
Will he hire one of his former interns?
etc, etc, etc…..