Martin Snedden goes into bat for BEIA, New Zealand

Former international cricketer and experienced CEO, Martin Snedden (pictured), CNZM, is the new independent chair of New Zealand’s national industry association, Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA). BEIA chief executive, Lisa Hopkins says the board is excited to have Snedden agree to head the industry’s flagship organisation. “We are delighted to have Martin join the industry, as we head into a new era for New Zealand’s business events presence on the world stage,” she says. He takes on the position previously held by Steve Armitage, who is now CEO of Hospitality New Zealand. Hopkins says the work of BEIA has grown and developed under Armitage’s leadership over the past two years. “The industry will be forever appreciative of Steve’s guidance during this crucial crisis and recovery period for our industry sector,” Hopkins adds. Martin Snedden was CEO of Rugby World Cup 2011 and made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2012. As CEO of the Tourism Industry Association, he led New Zealand’s tourism industry, during 2012 and 2013, through the creation of ‘Tourism 2025’. He has since held a variety of governance roles including, until recently, Board chair of New Zealand Cricket. Outgoing chair, Steve Armitage welcomed Snedden’s appointment: “Martin’s governance background, knowledge of membership associations, and experience leading major events will be an absolute asset to the business events sector going forward.”