Embattled Netball Australia CEO Kelly Ryan has resigned in the wake of a tumultuous time in charge including the recent ugly and emotional standoff with players over their new pay deal.
Ryan, who took on the job in 2021, informed the Board of Netball Australia of her decision, which is effective immediately, on Tuesday.
With the new pay deal agreed to last week, Ryan said it was time to “hand over the reins to a new leader”.
“Having reached an in-principle agreement on the CPA pay deal, and watched with pride as our Diamonds won the Commonwealth Games and the Netball World Cup, the timing felt right to hand over the reins to a new leader,” she said.
“During my time as CEO I have delivered on the objectives of the Board. We overcame the challenges of coronavirus pandemic to continue a national competition through border closures, experienced strong growth in the national competition, grew netball’s already strong participation numbers, and strengthened the games’ finances.
“Netball Australia has a wonderful team of people who work tirelessly for the benefit of the sport, and I thank them for their continued efforts and for their support.”
Netball Australia’s Chair Wendy Archer thanked Ryan for her commitment to the sport.
“Kelly Ryan has made an enormous contribution to our sport in her time leading Netball Australia,” Archer said.
“She has shown great resilience and integrity during her leadership over her time as CEO.”
Netball Australia agree on new CBA | 00:37
