Danny Jonas resigns as Sport Whanganui Chief Executive

After more than 30 years’ service with Sport Whanganui, Danny Jonas is stepping down from his role as Chief Executive in early-2024.

Danny will step down in March 2024 to focus on new opportunities in real estate and is set to take up a position with Property Brokers Whanganui.

“As the CEO for 15 years, I feel the time is right to start a new adventure and in doing so requires me to say goodbye to this role to be able to start another”, Danny says.

“During my time at Sport Whanganui I have had the privilege to work alongside all the previous Chief Executives – Larry Graham, the late Gary Stent, Graeme Taylor, and Phil Kearney.

“Having the position of CEO has always felt like a real privilege and I cannot thank the organisation enough for allowing me this opportunity, and the team for their support along the way.”

Sport Whanganui Board Chair John Unsworth says the organisation has been fortunate to have someone of Danny’s calibre serve to grow and develop the organisation to where it is today.

“It’s difficult to put into words the enormous contribution that Danny’s made to Sport Whanganui, to the sporting community in Whanganui and to the community across the region. His leadership and service, over many years, has steered Sport Whanganui through periods of great change and uncertainty.

Danny started as Sport Whanganui CEO in 2008 after managing the Splash Centre facility for 9 years. Prior to that he managed pools in Marton, Hunterville, and Taihape and was a tutor in Sport Whanganui sport and recreation programmes, as well as a part-time Kiwi Sport coordinator.

John also highlighted Danny’s skills in building relationships over the years and acknowledges the collaborative, whānau-focused environment Danny has created at Sport Whanganui in his time as CEO.

“The strength of the team has been through the development of a culture that encourages initiative and community service at every level.”

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Danny for his leadership and dedication over his term as Chief Executive and wish him all the best for the future.”

The recruitment process for the Chief Executive role will begin shortly, with the Board of Sport Whanganui hoping to appoint the new Chief Executive in the first half of 2024.