Brown lands roles at New Zealand Rugby with two new executives
But here's where it gets interesting: NZ Rugby is restructuring again, naming two new executives for 2026 and beyond.
Chris Kinraid has been appointed Chief Financial Officer, while Chris Brown will serve as Chief Commercial Officer. Brown brings a wealth of senior commercial leadership, with deep experience in global brand marketing and customer strategy. Most recently, he held the roles of Chief Customer Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald’s Australia, and was part of the company’s global marketing team. His background covers brand positioning, advertising, media, sponsorship, and digital programs.
Kinraid comes from Hallenstein Glasson Holdings Limited, where he was Chief Executive Officer, and previously served as Group Chief Financial Officer at KMD Brands. He brings substantial financial and executive leadership capabilities and will be pivotal in advancing NZR’s all-of-game strategy.
Interim NZR CEO Steve Lancaster will remain in position as the Board continues the CEO selection process.
News and context: NZR has been consolidating under a single CEO and executive team over the past year, refining strategy to be more efficient, collaborative, and accountable. The Board notes that the requirements for the CEO role have evolved, and they are taking time to appoint the right leader.
Steve Lancaster’s leadership through this transition is highly valued, with his deep understanding of the game from community level through high performance, and he has the Board’s full support in continuing in the role.
Brown and Kinraid are expected to join NZR’s Executive team by the end of February.
Controversy note: The reshuffle underscores ongoing debates about how best to balance financial discipline with aggressive growth in a national sports organization. Do you think such executive changes will translate into clearer strategy and stronger performance, or could they introduce new tensions between commercial aims and sporting development? Share your thoughts below.
