Was he pushed or did he jump? The abrupt termination of now ex MotorSport New Zealand CEO Simon Baker leaves many unanswered questions. What now needs to be addressed is why did this situation arise? It is not necessarily about the personalities involved, rather it is about the process.
A short statement on Friday evening stated that:
‘Simon Baker, the Chief Executive Officer of MotorSport New Zealand, and the organisation’s President Wayne Christie have agreed that there are irreconcilable differences and will go their separate ways. Mr. Baker has resigned effective today, 15 May 2020.‘
This statement from President Wayne Christie is in stark contrast to his announcing the appointment of a new CEO on 26 July 2019, less than 12 months ago.
“Simon’s infectious enthusiasm and determination to succeed, together with his previous experience in management and sales roles makes him the ideal person to continue to strengthen our vision of being New Zealand’s most exciting sport.”
So what went wrong?
This is the question that must be asked by Motorsport New Zealand stakeholders and addressed by Christie and the board.
It is a question about processes, particularly in the way the recruitment of the CEO took place.
It is vital for the next appointment to have confidence in the president and the board. Integrity of the process is paramount for this to take place.
Comments