Businessman, cyclist to take helm at BikeNZ

BikeNZ Chairman, Arthur Klap today announced that Auckland businessman and keen cyclist, Kieran Turner will become the organisation’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Mr Turner replaces Rodger Thompson, who resigned last month after guiding the establishment of BikeNZ, the umbrella body embracing all national bike and cycling organisations.

Mr Turner, 37, has a strong commercial background, currently working for Air New Zealand in charge of the company’s loyalty programme through Koru Club, the Koro lounges throughout the company’s network and global lounges.

He has also worked in business and market development for the organisation and for their Travelcentre retail operation.

Mr Turner was an analyst for ANZ Bank and a partner in a strategic consulting company before establishing his own consulting business that included large scale public sector projects and corporate finance.

He is a keen cyclist, selected in a national development team to compete in the Tour of Taiwan and recently competing in the national club championship in the masters division.

Mr Klap said the new chief executive officer offers all of the key qualities to take the organisation forward.

“Rodger did a great job establishing this organisation and putting in place excellent structures and foundation,” Mr Klap said.

“The next three to four years is a critical period for the organisation where we aim to be stronger financially, build on the recent clear successes in high performance across all disciplines of cycling, mountainbike and BMX and to establish our strategy of growing recreational cycling, ride to work and ride to school programmes for all New Zealanders.

“At the same time we have taken the opportunity to re-structure and improve our governance organisation.”

Mr Klap said there were 50 applicants for the position and several with the skill-set for the role.

“We are very confident that Kieran’s strong commercial background, analytical skills and the passion for cycling as a sport and recreation will be ideal to take BikeNZ forward.”

He takes up the position at the end of November.