Netball Super League set out to find a game-changing MD to professionalise the league and drive global growth.
Challenge
Netball Super League set out to become a leading, commercially successful competition that could attract global talent, investment, and broadcast opportunities. Delivering this vision required a new kind of leadership.
“It wasn’t about experience on paper — it was about purpose, presence and the ability to galvanise a movement.”
– Hiring Manager, Netball Super League
The challenge was threefold. The skill set required was highly specialised, combining commercial acumen with a deep understanding of the modern sports industry. Cultural fit was critical. This wasn’t a traditional leadership role — it was for someone with deep, personal passion for women’s sport and the ability to lead through a period of ambiguity. And the talent pool was small, particularly within the netball ecosystem.
The importance of the role was underlined by England Netball’s wider strategy. The appointment formed part of a broader leadership restructure to support the long-term professionalisation of the sport — and would be instrumental in driving that vision forward.
Solution
Having previously supported England Netball on their CEO and senior leadership appointments, Netball Super League engaged Executives in Sport Group to lead this critical executive search.
Executives in Sport Group’s Tom Beswick led the project, placing equal emphasis on skillset and personal mission. His search strategy extended beyond conventional headhunting methods, mapping professionals from across sport, media and entertainment. He tapped into women’s sport networks, examined delegate lists from relevant conferences, and analysed digital engagement to find individuals already invested in the space.
“This was never just a hire – it was about finding someone who could drive transformation.”
– Tom Beswick, Consultant – Executives in Sport Group
The search was run in parallel with the appointment of a new Director of Marketing & Commercial at England Netball. Together, the roles were structured to ensure the right blend of strategic leadership and commercial delivery across the organisation.
Outcome
The successful candidate brought commercial expertise, transformational leadership, and a long-standing commitment to the growth of women’s sport. Their reputation in the game and deep understanding of the netball ecosystem made them a natural fit for the role.
As the league’s first Managing Director, their focus will be on raising the visibility, value and influence of the competition, working closely with clubs and stakeholders to shape its next chapter.
Need help hiring your next game-changing leader?
Tom Beswick specialises in C/D-level appointments for high-performance sporting organisations.
📩 Tom at tom@eisg.com
🌐 For more information about Executives in Sport Group, visit www.executivesinsport.com