Broadcaster and media executive Melodie Robinson has been appointed TVNZ’s new General Manager, Sport and Events.
Robinson, of Ngāi Tahu descent, will lead the sport and event strategy for TVNZ’s coverage of global sporting events such as Rugby World Cup 2019, Paralympic Games 2020 and America’s Cup 2021, TVNZ announced late this afternoon.
Robinson is a highly respected sports and media professional with a strong business grounding, said Cate Slater, TVNZ’s Director of Content.
"TVNZ’s delighted to welcome Melodie to our team. It feels especially fitting to announce Mel’s appointment on International Women’s Day, given she’s such a role model and powerful advocate for women in sport,” she said.
"Many people know Mel from her high profile career on the field and in front of the camera. Equally impressive is her head for business and strategic vision. She’s a high performing professional and she brings incredible depth and breadth to this key leadership role in our content team," Ms Slater said.
"Live sport brings people together. It’s a big focus for TVNZ as we’re committed to sharing the magic of our biggest sporting events with New Zealand’s biggest audiences," she said.
Robinson, who starts in mid-March, says the role is a dream opportunity.
"I know how rare it is that a role like this comes up; it’s my dream job, and I can’t wait to work alongside the TVNZ team," she said.
"Making sure significant sport events are accessible for all Kiwis, and sharing special memories through TVNZ sports coverage is particularly important to me."
Robinson is a former political journalist, sports producer, corporate communications manager and international rugby player.
She was a member of the 1996 and 2002 Rugby World Cup winning Black Ferns and an international Sevens player for New Zealand.
After retiring from the game, she became the world's first female rugby commentator and was a key member of SKY Sports’ commentary team.
She has been involved in covering major sports for many years, including Olympics and Commonwealth Games, rugby and netball World Cup tournaments, Super Rugby and Mitre 10 Cup rugby.
Meanwhile, New Zealand's first Māori Barbie doll has been modelled on Melodie Robinson as part of Mattel’s Role Model line released to celebrate International Women’s Day.
She is New Zealand’s first shero – female hero – as Barbie celebrates International Women’s Day.
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