Warrick Dent named new Chief Executive at Wellington’s Sky Stadium

November 7, 2023

The Wellington Regional Stadium Trust has announced the appointment of Warrick Dent as its new Chief Executive, taking over from Shane Harmon who will leave at the end of the year after a 10 year tenure in the role.

Currently General Manager of Events and Experience at WellingtonNZ, Dent’s current role oversees the management of Venues Wellington, which manages the TSB Arena, St James Theatre, Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington Opera House and Shed 6, as well as the city’s investment in and the delivery of major events.

Before joining WellingtonNZ, he was the Manager of Major and City Events at Wellington City Council. Previously, Dent was the Head of Commercial, Communication and Events at Hong Kong Rugby and the Managing Director of Rugby Events Asia, a role which included the management of the Hong Kong Sevens and other international events.

Prior to working in events and venues, he worked as a project manager with Goldman Sachs in the financial sector in London, Hong Kong and New York.

Announcing the appointment, Wellington Regional Stadium Trust Chair, Rachel Taulelei stated “with such a stellar career already in the city we feel fortunate to have Warrick stepping into the role. And with an excellent working knowledge of events, venue management and established relationships with many of our hirers, he has an excellent head start to the position.”

Looking forward to his new role, Dent commented “to be asked to lead the Sky Stadium team is a great privilege, and I am excited by the opportunities and challenges this role presents.

“Sky Stadium is a fantastic asset for the region, and I’m looking forward to joining the team and working with our key stakeholders.”

Harmon announced his resignation in April 2023 and will remain as Chief Executive until Christmas.

Dent (pictured) will assume the role of Chief Executive from 8th January 2024.

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