Adam Gosney has far from been thrown in the deep end as he embarks on a new career path as Wanganui Splash Centre facility manager.
Gosney's business acumen combined with his significant sporting achievements on the national and international stage made him a hot favourite among applicants from throughout the country. His sporting endeavours focused mainly on cycling and multisport.
But it was his business acumen that swayed Sport Wanganui to make the appointment from its own ranks.
For the past 10 years Sport Wanganui has managed the centre in a joint venture with owners, the Wanganui District Council.
Sport Wanganui chief executive Danny Jonas said Gosney had been appointed to the role, bringing a wealth of skills and experience, with particular expertise in operations management.
"Adam's business acumen has been honed from his work in private training, mainstream education and non-profit organisations," Jonas said.
"Most recently as project manager for Sport Wanganui, Adam has been instrumental with new sport business initiatives and the development of sporting codes.
"Amongst this work he has been the health and safety leader for four associated businesses and was heavily involved in the strategic outcomes, reporting and budgeting for these organisations."
Taking on the Splash Centre was a natural progression and a logical step, said Gosney.
"The key aspect that attracted me to the role is the fact it is a challenge with a broad range of responsibilities. Two immediate requirements of the position are the refreshing of the annual and marketing plans.
"I will be working with the Sport Wanganui business consolidation team to create new dynamic and focused plans."
Sport Wanganui prides itself on the continuing professional development of it's personnel. The facility's previous manager, Tracey Prince was employed for 10 years and held the manager's role for four.
"Tracey's successful progression to the NZ Recreation Association gives credit to Sport Wanganui's development philosophy," Jonas said.
"Adam's appointment to this critical role gives the organisation a seamless transition and opportunity to further enhance this outstanding facility and relative services. The Splash Centre role is a key one and the right candidate had to tick all the boxes for Sport Wanganui and the Wanganui District Council.
"Interest came from across the country, but ultimately the position was to be filled by someone with the right skills, attributes and experience as well as a genuine affinity with Wanganui and willingness to embrace the community and lifestyle.
"Adam himself worked at the Splash Centre earlier in his career, and since then has travelled, extended his education and achieved excellent business experience. He is also a highly accomplished sportsman, having represented New Zealand at international level, in cycling and in multisports."
Gosney said Wanganui was privileged to have a facility such as the Splash Centre, accessible to the whole community and offering a great range of services.
"The Splash Centre has a proud tradition, standout programmes including the Learn to Swim programme, recreation events, swim squad, masters swimming, various training groups and, of course, the day-to-day accessibility to a wonderful complex."
Greg Morris, deputy property manager at the council, was delighted with the new appointment and sees the further strengthening of the links with Sport Wanganui's other programmes and partners as another step forward in the development of the facility.